Daxiangguo Temple

Introducing Daxiangguo Temple

Daxiangguo Temple, located on the west section of Ziyou Road in Kaifeng City , boasts a long history and is one of the ten most famous temples of Chinese Buddhism. It was the scene where Lu Zhishen uprooted a weeping willow in the novel "Water Margin" and served as an imperial temple during the Song Dynasty. Here, you can admire the four-faced wooden statue of the Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin from the Qianlong reign.

The current scale of Xiangguo Temple is far inferior to that of the Tang and Song Dynasties, but its layout has been basically preserved to this day. Along the central axis of the temple, from south to north, there are the stele building, Heavenly King Hall, Main Hall, Eight Treasures Glazed Hall, and Sutra Hall. There is also a bell tower on the east side of the front yard.

The Sutra Repository and the Main Hall, both Qing Dynasty buildings, are tall, majestic, and imposing. Their architecture features double-eaved hip roofs, stacked brackets, and covered in yellow-green glazed tiles. White stone railings surround the hall and the platform.

The octagonal glazed hall rises tall in the center, surrounded by verandas. Its roof is covered in glazed tiles, and bells are suspended from the corners. Inside the hall is a massive wooden statue of the Thousand-Armed and Dry-Eyed Avalokitesvara of the Tantric Buddhism, approximately seven meters tall and gilded. Legend has it that it was carved from a single ginkgo tree, a truly exquisite sight. The bell tower houses a massive Qing Dynasty bell, approximately four meters tall and weighing over ten thousand kilograms. It is known as the " Xiangguo Frost Bell " and is one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Kaifeng.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Main buildings: Heavenly King Hall, Mahavira Hall, Octagonal Glazed Hall, Sutra Library, etc.

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

40 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Summer time ( March 11th - October 31st ) : 8:00-18: 30

Winter ( November 1st - March 10th ): 8 : 00-18 : 00

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Most Popular FAQs for Daxiangguo Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Daxiangguo Temple is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Kaifeng, with origins tracing back to the Northern Song Dynasty. The temple was an important center of Buddhist worship and culture, and it played a key role in the city’s religious life for centuries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The temple is located in the heart of Kaifeng, Henan. It can be reached by taxi, public buses, or on foot from other major landmarks in Kaifeng. The nearest bus stop is a short walk away from the entrance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Early mornings on weekdays are the best time to visit, as it tends to be less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance, or online through local ticketing platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore Daxiangguo Temple, including time to visit the main hall, pavilions, and the surrounding temple grounds.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main hall, which houses a grand statue of the Buddha.
• The pagoda and the surrounding gardens, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
• The numerous Buddhist statues and shrines throughout the temple.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin and English are also available for rent at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The front entrance and the main hall are excellent for photographing traditional Chinese architecture.
• The pagoda and its surrounding gardens offer serene and scenic views for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the temple through the main gate, proceed to the central hall, and then visit the pagoda and gardens. End with a visit to the various smaller shrines and pavilions around the complex.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not available, and there are no regular light shows. Special cultural tours may be offered during major festivals or Buddhist ceremonies, so it's worth checking in advance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The temple can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit in the morning on weekdays or during non-holiday periods.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• There are clean restrooms located near the entrance and around the temple grounds.
• There are small shops selling Buddhist-related souvenirs and items for worshippers.
• No food or beverages are sold inside the temple, but there are local restaurants nearby.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple is accessible for elderly and children, with paved walkways and rest areas. However, some areas may have stairs, so it might not be fully accessible for wheelchair users.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards are not typically accepted at the temple.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several restaurants in the vicinity offering traditional Chinese cuisine, including noodle dishes, dumplings, and vegetarian options.
• Nearby tea houses and cafes provide a relaxing spot for tea after visiting the temple.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at nearby restaurants, and some places also offer halal dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are budget hotels and guesthouses near the temple.
• For a more luxurious stay, several mid-range and high-end hotels are located a short distance from the temple.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Kaifeng Dragon Pavilion is just a short drive away and is one of the city’s key attractions.
• The Iron Pagoda and the nearby Kaifeng city center are also easily accessible.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist items, statues, incense, and traditional Chinese arts and crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Public buses or taxis are available to explore other parts of Kaifeng, including the city center and nearby attractions.
• For longer journeys, taxis or ride-hailing services (like Didi) can take you to the Kaifeng railway station or other parts of the city.