Live Your Best Lives
Explore the serene surroundings of the Tugong Temple Scenic Area, offering a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. Visit the temple, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, take a walk around the lush landscape, and experience the cultural heritage through temple architecture and Buddhist relics.
The Tugong Temple Scenic Area, also known as the Tu Family Ancestral Hall, was built by Tu Zongying, a famous official in the late Qing Dynasty. As the headquarters of the Third Column of the Liu-Deng Army's thousand-mile leap into the Zhangjiadian Campaign in the Dabie Mountains, the Tu Family Ancestral Hall was listed as a provincial key cultural relic protection unit after liberation.
The Tu Family Ancestral Hall is said to have been built by Tu Zongying, a prominent official in the late Qing Dynasty. As the headquarters of the Third Column during Liu Bei and Deng Xiaoping's army's 1,000-mile advance into the Zhangjiadian Campaign in the Dabie Mountains, the hall was designated a provincial key cultural relic preservation site after the founding of the People's Republic of China. However, since 1950, the hall has been used by the government as a grain depot. Over 50 years of weathering and weathering have left it in a state of disrepair. However, the remaining main hall, with its two main courtyards, still reveals a wealth of "red" relics and artifacts. Its compact floor plan and exquisitely carved beams and rafters reflect its grandeur and sophistication.
The rebuilt and renovated Tu Clan Ancestral Hall is paved with bluestone bricks and planted with numerous pines, cypresses, and osmanthus trees, highlighting the surrounding environment dominated by the ancestral hall. Tall metasequoia and bamboo trees are planted around the perimeter wall to create a screen, shielding the exterior from the impact of modern buildings on the overall park atmosphere and transforming it into an independent scenic spot. In front of the ancestral hall, the existing Mingtang water surface is used as the base, maintaining its original gourd shape and expanding to the east and west. A pavilion is built in the southwest of the pond, and moisture-tolerant plants and rockery are used to embellish the surrounding area, forming a circular landscape space.
Subtropical monsoon climate; Tugong Temple Scenic Area is also known as Tu's Ancestral Hall. It is said that Tu's Ancestral Hall was built by Tu Zongying, a famous official in the late Qing Dynasty. After liberation, Tu's Ancestral Hall was listed as a provincial key cultural relic protection unit and is suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to visit the first and second exhibition halls in the Tugong Temple scenic area;
It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours
20 yuan/person
07:00-17:00
Tugong Temple is a historic Buddhist temple that dates back to ancient times. It is a significant religious and cultural site in Anhui, with its serene environment and beautiful architecture offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Chinese temple life and Buddhist practices.
Tugong Temple Scenic Area is located in Anhui Province. The most convenient way to reach the site is by taxi or private car. There are also bus routes that connect the area with nearby towns. Walking around the scenic area is highly recommended to fully enjoy the surroundings.
The temple is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience, especially during weekdays.
The entrance fee is generally affordable. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or possibly through online platforms, especially during peak seasons. It's best to check for any available discounts or offers online before visiting.
Booking tickets in advance is not required but recommended during peak seasons or weekends to avoid long lines. A few days in advance should suffice if you plan on visiting during busier times.
A visit to Tugong Temple Scenic Area typically takes 1 to 2 hours to explore the temple and surrounding grounds. If you plan to enjoy the scenic walks, allocate a bit more time for relaxation and photography.
The main highlights include the temple building, the surrounding natural scenery, and the serene atmosphere. The Buddha statues and religious artifacts are also significant attractions within the temple.
Guided tours are available, primarily in Mandarin, and can be arranged on-site. Audio guides may also be offered in English and Mandarin. It is advisable to check availability in advance if you require an English-speaking guide.
The best photography spots are around the temple and its surrounding grounds, where the traditional architecture blends beautifully with nature. The temple’s front and its gardens are perfect for capturing scenic photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start by visiting the temple’s main halls and Buddha statues. Then take a walk around the temple grounds, explore the nearby nature trails, and spend some quiet time enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not part of the regular offerings at Tugong Temple. However, the peaceful atmosphere in the evening can provide a different experience for those who prefer quieter visits.
The temple can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings on weekdays, particularly Monday to Friday.
The area provides basic facilities such as clean toilets, water fountains, and resting areas. There are small shops nearby selling souvenirs and snacks, but more extensive dining options are available in the town nearby.
The temple and its grounds are somewhat accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may require walking up stairs. Disabled visitors may find some areas less accessible due to uneven terrain, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.
Mobile payments and cards are generally accepted at the ticket counter and nearby shops. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases in case mobile payment systems are unavailable at some stalls.
There are no restaurants directly inside the temple, but there are several local eateries nearby that offer traditional Chinese food and snacks. You can find both vegetarian and meat options.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in nearby restaurants, especially in line with the Buddhist theme of the temple. Halal food options might be limited but can be found in certain local restaurants in the area.
Several mid-range hotels and guesthouses are available in the nearby towns. For a more convenient stay, you can choose accommodations close to major transportation hubs or along the main routes leading to the temple.
Nearby attractions include local parks, cultural sites, and other Buddhist temples in the region. You can easily combine a visit to Tugong Temple with a trip to nearby scenic areas or historical landmarks in Anhui Province.
There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist-related items such as prayer beads, incense, and religious statues. Local handicrafts and traditional Anhui tea sets are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting the temple, you can take a taxi, bus, or use local public transport to continue your journey. If you're heading to other nearby attractions, consider renting a car or using taxis for more convenience.
