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Visitors to Bixia Temple can explore the ancient architecture, participate in peaceful moments of reflection, and enjoy scenic views from the temple's elevated location. Hiking around the temple area offers a good opportunity to experience nature and learn about the site's cultural and spiritual significance.
Lianyungang Bixia Temple is located east of White Tiger Mountain in Haizhou, Lianyungang City, Jiangsu Province. Adhering to the motto of accumulating merit and fostering dharma connections, the abbot, upholding the aspirations of previous abbots, has devoted significant effort to temple development, achieving remarkable results.
Bixia Temple has undergone a dramatic transformation, its appearance and ethos completely renewed. Its reputation has grown, attracting many philanthropists, Buddhist believers, and tourists alike to visit, worship, and sightsee. Every year on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, the government hosts a goods exchange fair, featuring a variety of performances and a lively atmosphere.
Legend has it that this temple is located on the top of Baihu Mountain. One night, thunder and lightning suddenly moved from the mountain to the foot of the mountain. Due to its efficacy, the temple became more and more popular. Especially on the eighth day of April every year, tens of thousands of people gathered to worship. Over time, it formed a huge temple fair with a history of more than 300 years.
With a temperate monsoon climate, Bixia Temple regularly hosts Spring Festival disaster relief ceremonies and a Buddha Bathing Ceremony on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. The best time to visit is from February to May.
Lianyungang Bixia Temple features the Main Hall, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, and the Sutra Library. The Main Hall houses three Tathagata Buddha statues perched on a lotus pedestal. The walls are decorated with the Eighteen Arhats, each in their own unique form. At the back of the hall stands a statue of Guanyin, flanked by Sudhana and the Dragon Girl. The background features the Thirty-Two Transformations of Bodhisattva, richly painted in clay. On either side of the back wall are two statues of Manjusri and Samantabhadra, one astride a blue lion and the other atop a white elephant. The hall's most majestic and magnificent feature is the Hall of Heavenly Kings, a two-story building with a hip roof and soaring eaves. It is decorated with porcelain ornaments of four phoenixes and ten dragons, reflecting the architectural style of southern Fujian. In the center, a golden statue of Maitreya gazes out with a smile, while Skanda stands behind him, his face solemn. On either side, the Four Heavenly Kings stand majestically. These elements, integrated with the existing ancient buildings, have become a standard temple, covering an area of approximately 1,000 square meters.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Open all day
Bixia Temple has been an important religious site, particularly for Taoism, and is renowned for its historical importance in the region. The temple's architecture and natural surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and meditation, making it a significant cultural and spiritual landmark in Jiangsu.
Bixia Temple is located in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province. You can reach the temple by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking is also an option if you're nearby, though the temple is situated in a slightly elevated area, so a bit of uphill walking might be involved.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To avoid the crowds, the best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays, particularly in the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the temple is less crowded.
The entrance fee is typically around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance, and there is no need to buy tickets in advance, though it’s advisable to check during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary unless visiting during a public holiday or peak season. If you prefer, you can book tickets online a day or two ahead of your visit.
A visit to Bixia Temple typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows time to explore the temple's main hall, gardens, and enjoy the surrounding scenic areas.
The main hall, the surrounding gardens, and the peaceful natural landscapes are the must-see highlights of Bixia Temple. The views from the temple's higher points are also exceptional.
Guided tours are available, primarily in Mandarin. There may also be some audio guides in English, but it's recommended to inquire in advance if you require one.
The temple itself, especially from the higher points, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The gardens and the main hall are also excellent for photography.
Start your visit by entering the main gate and explore the central hall. Then, walk through the gardens and enjoy the natural surroundings. If time permits, take a hike to the higher points for a panoramic view of the area.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows. However, special tours may be arranged for groups or during important cultural festivals.
The temple can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially outside of holiday seasons.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are small shops selling snacks and souvenirs. However, it is a good idea to bring your own water, especially if visiting during the summer.
While the temple is accessible to children and elderly visitors, some areas may involve walking uphill or over uneven paths. Wheelchair access is limited, so those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted. Cash is still widely used, but credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops or ticket booths.
There are a few local restaurants near the temple that offer traditional Chinese cuisine. For more options, head to the city center of Lianyungang, where you will find a variety of dining establishments.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, particularly those catering to Buddhist visitors. Halal food can be found in Lianyungang's city center.
Several hotels are available in the city center of Lianyungang, ranging from budget to mid-range options. A few hotels are located closer to the temple, but it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel times.
Nearby attractions include the Anti-Japanese Mountain, Bixia Temple's surrounding nature trails, and Lianyungang Seaside Park. These sites are easily accessible and can be combined for a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops at the temple selling religious items, such as incense, prayer beads, and small Buddha statues. Traditional Chinese crafts are also available for purchase.
Taxis and local buses are available to continue your trip after visiting the temple. If you are heading to other attractions within Lianyungang, public transport is a convenient option.
