Temple construction begins to decline under the Ming dynasty, along with architecture in general, into mere repetition of Song formulas.

Among the few notable Chinese buildings erected in the fifteenth-century are the Taimiao, in Beijing, a long, narrow assembly building that recalls early Chinese palaces, and the Zhihuasi, completed in 1444 as a Ming version of a traditional Buddhist structure.

Construction of the Zhihua Temple ("Temple of Wisdom Attained") had begun in 1443 at the order of Wang Zhen, a powerful eunuch in the Rites Supervising Office of the court of the Zhengtong Emperor.

The temple, surrounding buildings, and grounds comprise approximately two hectares (four point nine acres).

It is one of the most important original building complexes from the Ming dynasty period in the Old City area, and one of the only wooden structures and groups of buildings from the Ming dynasty to remain intact in Beijing.

It is also striking for its extensive use of black roof tiles.