Duanghou Temple, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China – Visitors to Duanghou Temple are often touched by the sight of a one-armed monkey named Xing Xing – a symbol of serenity amid the mountains.
But behind her calm presence lies a moving story of suffering, rescue, compassion, and an extraordinary bond between human and animal.
A Painful Past and a Fateful Encounter
Xing Xing is a Tibetan macaque, a species listed in the Red Book of endangered animals. As a baby, she was caught in a hunter’s trap and lost one of her arms.
She was then raised and trained as a circus animal for performances. In 2010, a compassionate citizen in Ningbo bought her and released her into the wild on Mount Daliang. However, years in captivity had left Xing Xing unable to survive on her own.
That was when Buddhist nun Ye Liannyu – affectionately called “Grandma” by many – stepped in. During a visit to the temple, she saw the frail monkey foraging near the mountain base.
Moved by the monkey’s pitiful eyes, she remembered the Buddhist teachings of compassion and took Xing Xing in.
“She wrapped herself around my leg and looked up at me as if asking for help,” Grandma recalled. “I couldn’t turn away.”
Fifteen Years as Part of the Temple Family
Since then, Xing Xing has spent more than 15 years living peacefully at Duanghou Temple. Despite having only one arm, she has adapted with remarkable skill – eating, climbing, even opening water taps and drinking milk through a straw.
She often sits quietly in meditation alongside the nuns, her calm gaze and peaceful posture moving all who see her.
To Grandma and the temple’s monks and nuns, Xing Xing is more than a monkey – she is family. She is bathed, fed, and lives in a tranquil mountain environment. Visitors also bring fruits, milk, or snacks as offerings to the beloved temple resident.
Social Media Fame and Its Consequences
In October 2021, a video showing Grandma gently calling, “Xing Xing, come eat,” went viral on Chinese and international social media.
Millions viewed the heartwarming clip, and thousands of curious visitors began arriving at the temple – some to pray, others hoping to meet Xing Xing in person.
But the influx of attention disrupted Xing Xing’s peaceful life. Overeager tourists approached too closely, took photos, and fed her without caution, causing stress and defensive behavior.
There have been several incidents where she chased or bit visitors who overwhelmed her.
The temple has since placed warning signs advising visitors not to get too close or feed her without guidance.
Although friendly, Xing Xing is still a wild animal – and must be treated with respect, care, and a safe distance.
A Story of Compassion and Bond
Today, Xing Xing continues to roam the forested hills near the temple, occasionally returning for food and the loving presence of Grandma. Her story is a testament to kindness, healing, and the deep, unspoken connection that can form between human and animal – when love is paired with understanding.
