<< Photo: North Network

The well-preserved woman was identified at Zhou Gu who had been a laywoman at Linqianyan Temple, according to Liao Deyan, a man who sculpts Buddhas at the temple. "There was no trace of decay on her body or clothing. No odor, either," he said. "There was no lime or charcoal in the jar. It's a miracle the body was preserved so well."

According to Chen Yiquan, deputy secretary general of the Xiangcheng district Buddhism committee, a vegetarian diet is a key factor in leaving an immortal body.

"Her hands and feet could still be moved, and from her expression, it must have been quite peaceful when she passed away," said Liao, as he wrapped her body in gauze to make her into a "golden statue."