Stringent regime at famous temple slashes monk’s screen time on mobile phones, imposes strict diet, long working hours

The introduction of gruelling work schedules like those in China’s tech industry, or so-called Buddhist “996” reform, has swept through the internationally renowned Shaolin Temple.

The new rules come in the wake of an investigation into former Shaolin abbot, Shi Yongxin, for financial and sexual misconduct and the appointment of his successor, Shi Yinle.

After the downfall of Shi Yongxin, who led the famous temple in central China’s Henan province for more than two decades, it was announced that Shi Yinle, the abbot of The White Horse Temple, had taken over leadership.

Shi Yinle, 59, became known for his low profile, dedicated leadership style during his 20-year tenure at The White Horse, China’s first Buddhist temple.