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At Zhaoqing Temple, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and explore its rich cultural heritage. Recommended activities include:
Zhaoqing Temple is located in Zhaoqing Village, Sungang Town, Jin'an District, Lu'an City, Anhui Province, nestled at the crest of the Yangtze and Huaihe River watershed. Built during the Zhenguan period of the Tang Dynasty, it was one of the "Four Great Zhaoqing Temples" commissioned by Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin. Its construction was supervised by Yuchi Jingde, a founding hero of the Tang Dynasty. The monk Xuanzang, the Tripitaka Master of the Tang Dynasty, personally visited the temple to preach. In 1956, it was designated as one of the "First Batch of Key Cultural Relics and Historic Sites Protected in Anhui Province," and in 1984, it was designated a "Provincial Key Temple." The original inscription on the temple was inscribed by the renowned Tang Dynasty calligrapher Ouyang Xun, and later rewritten by Zhao Puchu, former president of the Buddhist Association of China.
Over the past 1,300 years since its construction, the temple has gone through wars, disasters, and ups and downs. It has been rebuilt nine times, especially the four major renovations during the Duanping period of the Song Dynasty, the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty, the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, and the 1980s. While retaining the original style of the temple, it has widely absorbed Buddhist cultural elements from the Tang, Song, Ming and Qing dynasties, and integrated the architectural styles of Buddhist temples from various dynasties. It is a rare well-preserved ancient imperial orthodox temple in the world.
The historic Zhaoqing Temple, built in the Tang Dynasty, boasts a wealth of cultural relics and historical sites, including ancient trees, stones, bricks, wells, sculptures, pottery, steles, castings, paintings, and carvings, all of which are of exceptional cultural heritage and archaeological value. During the annual temple fair, which stretches over ten days and stretches over ten miles, the temple attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, creating a bustling scene of people and traffic, a major attraction in western Anhui.
Subtropical monsoon climate; Zhaoqing Temple has pleasant scenery, nestled in the mountains and beside the water, surrounded by lush forests and bamboos, towering ancient trees, pleasant climate and magnificent scenery, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
The main hall, the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree, the ten-thousand-year-old tripod and the large incense burner;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
Open all day
Zhaoqing Temple has a long history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is a significant Buddhist site in Anhui, known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual importance. The temple serves as a center for local religious practices and attracts visitors seeking tranquility and cultural enrichment.
Zhaoqing Temple is located in the heart of Anhui Province, China. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from downtown Zhaoqing. There is no direct metro connection, so taxis or walking are the best options for reaching the temple.
The temple is open from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for a visit.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance. It is recommended to check for any special events or holidays that might affect availability.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, except during peak tourist seasons or special festivals. It is advisable to book tickets 1-2 days ahead during busy periods.
To fully explore Zhaoqing Temple, you will need around 1-2 hours. This includes time to admire the architecture, visit the gardens, and participate in any religious activities.
Key highlights include the main hall with its statues of Buddhist deities, the peaceful garden, and the surrounding courtyards. The architecture, carvings, and statues are particularly impressive.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides in English may be available, but it's best to check in advance or upon arrival.
Great spots for photography include the main hall, the temple gardens, and the view from the temple's upper floors overlooking the surrounding landscape.
Start by exploring the main hall and its surrounding courtyard. Take time to stroll through the temple gardens and visit the smaller halls. Finish by taking in the views from the temple’s upper floors.
Currently, Zhaoqing Temple does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours are available during festivals or religious events, so it’s worth checking the temple’s schedule.
The temple can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late afternoon.
Facilities at the temple include toilets, drinking water fountains, rest areas, and small shops selling souvenirs and religious items. There are also tea shops nearby for refreshments.
While Zhaoqing Temple is accessible for elderly visitors and children, some areas may involve steps or uneven ground that could be difficult for those with mobility challenges. It's recommended to inquire about accessibility options upon arrival.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the temple, including for ticket purchases and at the souvenir shops.
There are several local restaurants and tea shops nearby, offering Anhui cuisine and traditional Chinese snacks. Local specialties like tofu dishes and dumplings are commonly found in the area.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, particularly in the form of tofu and vegetable dishes. Halal food options are limited, but vegetarian dishes are a good alternative.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Zhaoqing Temple, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Nearby attractions include the Zhaoqing Pagoda and local parks. A day trip could also combine a visit to the Xijiang River or nearby natural reserves for a scenic experience.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the temple. Popular items include Buddhist statues, incense, tea sets, and traditional Chinese handicrafts.
After visiting, the best transportation options include taxis, buses, or private cars. For exploring nearby attractions, it’s easy to hire a local driver or join a tour group.
