Wudang Palace

Introducing Wudang Palace

The Wudang Palace is located at No. 300 Dongguan Street, Guangling District, Yangzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China. On the central axis are the mountain gate, Zhenwu Hall and the main hall, each of which is three rooms wide. There are also some corridors built on the east side, and there are three ancient ginkgo trees in the courtyard.

The Wudang Palace faces south, facing Dongguan Street. While the exact date of its original construction is unknown, it was originally named Zhenwu Temple. In 1428, the prefect Chen Zhen rebuilt it on the original site. It was further renovated during the Jiajing reign, and a stele inscription written by Wang Gui describes the scale of the construction. During the Jiajing reign, a native of Hanshan, Geng, erected a stone tablet with the name "Wudang Palace" to pray for blessings, giving rise to the popular name.

In 1853, during the reign of Emperor Xianfeng of the Qing Dynasty, most of the buildings were destroyed by war, but were rebuilt again during the reign of Emperor Guangxu. In 1902, the first government-run middle school in modern Yangzhou, Yidong School (the predecessor of today's Yangzhou Middle School), was founded here. After 1949, it was used successively by Dongguan Street Primary School and Yilei Primary School. From 2007 to April 2008, the building underwent renovations. In addition to its religious use, it now also showcases Yangzhou's Taoist culture.

Climate and best time to travel

With its subtropical monsoon climate, the Wudang Palace, with its red walls and black tiles, looks majestic from afar. Two ginkgo trees within the palace seem to remind visitors of its long history, like two giants guarding the palace. It's a great place to visit in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

When you enter the Wudang Palace, you can not only appreciate the Taoist architecture, but also the three complete halls that allow people to appreciate the authentic style of Yangzhou temple architecture, and you can also appreciate the Taoist culture.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

08:00-19:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Wudang Palace

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

Wudang Palace, a historic Taoist site, is renowned for its spiritual significance, rich cultural heritage, and stunning architecture. It serves as a major center for Taoist philosophy and is connected to the Wudang Mountains, famous for their martial arts history, particularly Tai Chi.

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

Wudang Palace is located in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from central Yangzhou to reach the palace. The site is also accessible by private vehicle. Walking around the palace grounds is part of the experience, but public transport options are best for the main journey.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The palace is open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

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

The entrance fee for Wudang Palace is approximately 40-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site, but there may also be online options available during peak tourist seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary but can be recommended during peak seasons (holidays or weekends). It’s usually safe to buy tickets on the day of your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Wudang Palace typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the grounds and temples. If you plan to participate in ceremonies or spend more time in reflection, you may want to set aside more time.

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

• The main temple hall with its detailed architecture and religious artifacts.
• The serene gardens that surround the palace, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
• The Taoist sculptures and stone carvings scattered throughout the site.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tours may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides are available for rent in multiple languages, including English, which can enhance the visitor experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the upper terraces of the palace, where you can capture the entire site along with the surrounding mountains. The gardens and the main temple hall also provide excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by visiting the main temple hall to get a sense of the palace's history and purpose.
• Stroll through the gardens and explore the surrounding courtyards and smaller temples.
• End your visit by exploring the outer grounds for a quiet reflection in nature.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at Wudang Palace. However, special Taoist spiritual events may be held during certain festivals or holidays. It’s advisable to check for any such events before visiting.

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

The palace can get crowded during holidays and weekends. The best times to visit are on weekdays, particularly in the morning before 10 AM or later in the afternoon after 3 PM.

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

• There are clean toilets available for visitors.
• Food and drink are available at a small café near the entrance, but there are no major restaurants inside.
• There are small rest areas where visitors can relax during their visit.
• Some souvenir shops are available outside the main temple selling Taoist-themed items.

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

The palace grounds are mostly accessible, though some areas have stairs and uneven terrain. Elderly or disabled visitors may need assistance in certain areas. Children will find the site enjoyable, particularly the gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but cards and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay or Alipay) are also commonly used for ticket purchases and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are small local restaurants and cafés near the entrance of Wudang Palace, serving traditional Jiangsu cuisine and simple snacks.
• For more dining options, visitors can head into the city center of Yangzhou, where a wider variety of restaurants are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local eateries around the palace. Halal food may be harder to find in this area but can be found in some parts of Yangzhou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in the vicinity of Wudang Palace.
• For more luxurious accommodations, visitors can stay in Yangzhou, which is a short drive away and offers a variety of hotels.

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

• Slender West Lake in Yangzhou is a nearby attraction offering scenic views and cultural landmarks.
• Geyuan Garden and Daming Temple in Yangzhou are also popular nearby destinations for day trips.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the entrance and surrounding areas selling Taoist-themed trinkets, traditional Chinese artwork, and local crafts. Items such as jade carvings, incense, and Taoist statues are commonly available.

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

• Taxis and buses are readily available for further transportation to other attractions in Yangzhou or beyond.
• For long-distance travel, the Yangzhou train station provides access to major cities in Jiangsu and China.