
Xiyuan Temple, nestled at the southern foot of Mangdang Mountain in the suburbs of Yanping District, boasts a beautiful environment and is a core scenic spot in Nanping City's Mangdang Mountain Nature Reserve. The canyon boasts stunning scenery and tranquil ravines. Anciently, Xiyuan Canyon boasted eighteen scenic spots, thirty-six caves, and seventy-two bends, boasting a humid climate and harmonious ecology. Home to over 1,500 plant species and dozens of rare animal species, the area has been a popular summer retreat and scenic spot since the Ming and Qing dynasties. Xiyuan Temple is a sacred site for pilgrimage and dream-seeking. It houses the Xiaogong Ancestral Temple, Guanyin Hall, Laojun Temple, and Jigong Temple, representing various religious beliefs.
Xiyuan Temple is one of Nanping's oldest existing religious sites. Built during the Xuanhe period of the Northern Song Dynasty, it is said to have been dedicated to Xiao Faming, who achieved immortality through cultivation there. The temple consists of two halls: the upper hall faces west, facing the peak, and the lower hall faces north, facing the stream. They are separated by over 200 steps. Today, it is a popular temple, with numerous visitors and pilgrims visiting on the 29th day of each lunar month to pray for dreams.
The subtropical monsoon humid climate is suitable for visiting here and praying to gods and Buddhas, and is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Xiyuan Canyon is located southwest of Nanping City, just 3.3 kilometers from the city center. The scenic area boasts a variety of natural attractions, including canyons, ancient trails, unusual rock formations, waterfalls, streams, lakes, and biodiversity, as well as a rich cultural heritage. Key attractions include Peach Blossom Mountain, Zhongyan Waterfalls, rare flora and fauna, Fengguan Rock, Bat Cave, Xiyuan Nunnery, Xiaogong Ancestral Hall, Laojun Hall, Golden Turtle Paying Homage to the Elder, cliff carvings, Buyun Bridge, Pinxiu Pavilion, Qiwu Pavilion, and Peacock Villa.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
30 yuan/person
8:00-17:00
Xiyuan Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back several centuries. It is an important spiritual site for locals and visitors alike, serving as a place for worship, meditation, and cultural activities. The temple is known for its peaceful environment and beautiful architecture.
Xiyuan Temple is located in Nanping, Fujian Province. It can be reached by taxi from the city center, or visitors can take a local bus. The temple is situated on a hill, so walking is an option if you enjoy hiking, though it is a bit of a climb.
The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon, when the temple is quieter and the weather is more comfortable. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Xiyuan Temple. However, donations are appreciated. Tickets or entry passes are not required, but it is advised to make a small donation to support the temple's upkeep.
No advance booking is required for the temple. It is open to the public without the need for reservations, though if you wish to join a specific ceremony or event, it may be helpful to contact the temple in advance.
A visit to Xiyuan Temple typically takes around 1 to 2 hours. This allows time to explore the temple's various halls, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and take in the religious and cultural significance of the site.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be arranged if requested in advance. Audio guides are not typically available, but local guides can provide rich cultural insights about the temple's history and significance.
Start by visiting the main hall, then explore the surrounding courtyards and garden. Spend some time in the smaller shrines for a more tranquil experience. If you enjoy nature, take a walk through the temple’s pathways and rest in the scenic spots along the way.
Night visits are not available at Xiyuan Temple. However, the temple’s serene atmosphere makes it ideal for an early morning visit. Special tours may be available during religious festivals or events, so it's worth checking ahead if you want to participate.
The temple can become crowded on weekends and during religious holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning hours, before the crowds arrive.
The temple grounds are somewhat hilly, and access to some areas may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children can enjoy the space, and the main halls are accessible by paved paths.
Cash is typically needed for donations, but mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay may be accepted. It's best to carry some cash just in case.
Vegetarian options are generally available at local eateries near the temple. Vegan and halal options may be limited, so it’s advisable to check in advance or prepare your own meals if necessary.
There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist artifacts, incense, and local handicrafts. Typical souvenirs include religious statues and prayer beads.