LHASA, Sept. 16 -- An ancient temple in Lhasa, capital of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, is under restoration.

Dedicated to Guan Yu, a deified historic figure in the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 A.D.) of China, the temple was built more than two centuries ago with an architectural style combining Han and Tibetan characteristics.

Phurbu, a veteran repairman who is leading the work, said only the damaged wood and stone parts will be replaced to maintain the original charm of the ancient structure.

Tibet launched a renovation project on the temple in 2007 to repair the main hall, the Manjusri hall and the monks' dorms.

This year's repair work, which will cost an estimated more than 2 million yuan (about 283,000 U.S. dollars), is expected to be completed on Nov. 15.