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Visit the Yuanmiao Temple to explore its ancient architecture and tranquil atmosphere. It’s also a great spot for photography, and visitors can learn about the temple’s religious significance and history. Make sure to observe the unique art and carvings within the temple.
Yuanmiao Temple is located at Xinfukou, East Street, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, commonly known as "Tiangong Temple". It was built during the Taikang period of the Western Jin Dynasty (280-289). It was originally called Baiyun Temple. It was the first Taoist temple after Taoism was introduced into Fujian, and it has had a great influence in history.
Unfortunately, it was repeatedly destroyed and occupied since the late Qing Dynasty, leading to its collapse. In 1966, the government allocated 10 mu of land for the reconstruction of Yuanmiao Temple.
The first phase of the project, rebuilding the Sanqing Hall on the original site of Yuanmiao Temple—now on East Street in the city center—was completed in December 1999. The hall, with a floor area of 340 square meters and a double-eaved hip-and-gable roof, is majestic and magnificent. Six stone pillars, 3.2 meters tall and 0.84 meters in diameter, are exquisitely carved with dragons. Eight stone windows on the east and west exterior walls and five rear walls are inlaid with stone and brick carvings depicting Taoist stories. The hall's roof features nine dragon ridges, carved with Laojun's alchemy furnace, flying dragons, unicorns, and various Taoist ornaments, a remarkable display of ingenuity.
Subtropical monsoon climate; Yuanmiao Temple has always been the center of Taoist activities in Quanzhou. During national or Taoist festivals and the birthdays of gods, Yuanmiao Temple holds grand religious ceremonies and sets up altars for holding religious ceremonies. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Sanqing Hall, Lingxiao Hall, Nantianmen, Doumu Hall;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free admission, interpretation of the lottery ticket costs 2 yuan per time
8:00-17:30
The Yuanmiao Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Fujian, dedicated to Taoism. It is historically significant as a place of worship and cultural heritage, serving as a key religious center for local Taoists and visitors alike.
The temple is located in the center of Quanzhou, Fujian. You can reach it by taking a taxi or a local bus from the city center. If you’re staying nearby, it’s also within walking distance from many central points in the city.
The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning to avoid crowds and to experience the peaceful atmosphere during the temple’s prayer sessions.
The entrance fee is usually around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be bought at the temple entrance. It is advisable to check online for any special events or price changes.
Booking tickets in advance is not required. However, it may be helpful during peak tourist seasons. Booking a day in advance should be sufficient if you are visiting during holidays.
It typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the temple thoroughly, including a walk through its halls, gardens, and the surrounding area.
Highlights include the main hall with its grand Taoist sculptures, the incense offerings, and the serene courtyard. The temple’s intricate carvings and historical relics are also not to be missed.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in both Mandarin and English are also available for a more in-depth experience.
The best photography spots are in the main temple hall, the tranquil courtyard, and the surrounding garden areas, especially during sunrise or sunset for a beautiful backdrop.
Start by entering the main hall, then move to the courtyard and smaller temple areas. Finish by exploring the gardens and any outdoor exhibitions or relics.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not available. However, the temple's serene ambiance makes for a peaceful visit during the day.
The temple can be busy on weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
The temple provides basic facilities like toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and religious items.
The temple is generally accessible, though some areas may have stairs and uneven ground. It is advisable to check with staff for accessibility information if required.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used and accepted at the temple.
There are several local restaurants nearby, offering traditional Fujianese dishes. For a more comfortable experience, try the local tea houses.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be limited but can be found at specialized eateries in the city.
There are various hotels within walking distance from Yuanmiao Temple, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Popular hotels include those located near the city center.
Nearby attractions include the Kaiyuan Temple, Qingjing Mosque, and Quanzhou Maritime Museum. These can be easily combined into a day trip.
Souvenir shops sell religious items, traditional crafts, and Fujianese tea. You can also find items related to Taoist culture.
After visiting, taxis or buses are available to continue your journey. You can also walk to nearby attractions if you wish to explore more of the city.
