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Ciyun Temple, founded in the seventh year of the Yongping reign of the Eastern Han Dynasty (64 AD), was the first private temple founded by the eminent Indian monks Shemoteng and Zhu Falan. It is often called the "Source of Buddhism," "Ancestral Temple," and "the First Temple in China." The temple covers approximately 60 mu (approximately 1,000 acres) and has undergone more than ten major renovations over its nearly 2,000-year history. The current Ciyun Temple was restored and rebuilt on the original site of the Ming Dynasty temple, preserving the architectural layout of that period.
Surrounded by mountains on all sides, a river flowing through it, and intertwined peaks and lush forests, the tranquil environment here is ideal for a relaxing vacation. Ciyun Temple, founded in the Han Dynasty, is the premier monastery in Gongyi. An inscription within the temple reads: "In the seventh year of Emperor Ming of the Eastern Han Dynasty's Yongping reign (64 AD), the monks Moteng and Zhu Falan first built the White Horse Temple west of Luoyang City. Later, they traveled to the mountains and, inspired by the beauty of the moonlit landscape, founded the Ciyun Zen Temple." The name "Ciyun" refers to the Buddha's compassion, vast as a cloud, shading the entire world.
The ancient Ciyun Temple, having weathered the vicissitudes of more than two thousand years, gradually declined after the late Qing Dynasty. The temple's extant inscriptions, both for their artistic and historical value, deserve to be preserved as valuable tourist resources. One of the inscribed tablets reads, "A Scenery of the Fifty-three Peaks of Ciyun Temple on Qinglong Mountain." Surrounded by peaks and valleys, Moteng and Zhu Falan stand atop Qinglong Peak in the distance. The scene is ethereal and enchanting. The outline of Ciyun Temple is engraved in the center of the stele, leaving us with precious historical records.
The temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
This is the history of the development of Chinese Buddhism. Following the emergence of three great thinkers in East Asia, Confucius, Laozi, and Sakyamuni, in the fifth century B.C., Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism gradually emerged. Under the influence of political power, Confucianism and Buddhism were the first to spread beyond Chinese borders, while Taoism followed suit, influencing each other. According to historical records, Buddhism was introduced to China in the first century B.C. (the end of the Western Han Dynasty), albeit in a folk form.
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Qinglong Mountain Ciyun Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located on the scenic Qinglong Mountain. It has been a center for spiritual practice and meditation for centuries. The temple is an important site for both religious and cultural heritage in Henan, attracting visitors for both its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance.
The temple is located on Qinglong Mountain, near Zhengzhou, Henan. To reach the temple, you can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing service from central Zhengzhou. There may also be local buses that pass near the area. Walking may take longer, depending on your starting point.
The temple is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a tranquil experience.
The entrance fee is usually around 20 CNY for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the temple or online through local tourism platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak seasons or public holidays. You can book tickets online a few days before your visit.
A visit to Qinglong Mountain Ciyun Temple typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the main temple complex and the surrounding areas. If you plan to hike around the mountain, it could take longer.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be provided, but availability in languages other than Mandarin is limited. Check with the temple staff for more information upon arrival.
The best photography spots are the panoramic views from the top of the mountain, where you can capture the surrounding landscapes. The temple’s architecture also makes for beautiful photographs, especially the main hall and the gardens.
Start by exploring the temple’s main hall and sacred areas. Then, take a walk through the temple’s peaceful gardens. If you have time, hike up the mountain for the scenic views and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available. The temple’s activities and experiences are mainly during daylight hours. Special tours or events may be scheduled during religious festivals, so it’s worth checking in advance.
The temple is generally less crowded on weekdays, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons. Weekends and public holidays tend to attract more visitors, so visiting during off-peak times ensures a more peaceful experience.
The temple is accessible for elderly and children, although some areas may involve steps or uneven paths. It’s recommended to check with the temple staff for additional accessibility information if you or a member of your group has mobility concerns.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at the temple. Credit cards may also be accepted at some points of purchase.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the temple that offer traditional Chinese food. For more variety, you may need to travel to the nearby Zhengzhou city center.
Vegetarian food options are generally available, especially in the nearby restaurants catering to temple visitors. Halal food may be harder to find in this area, but vegetarian options should meet most dietary needs.
Several budget and mid-range hotels are located in the nearby Zhengzhou city center, which is approximately 20-30 minutes by car from the temple.
Souvenir shops are available near the temple, offering items such as Buddhist statues, incense, prayer beads, and local crafts. These make for meaningful keepsakes from the visit.
After visiting the temple, taxis or ride-hailing services like Didi are available to take you to other nearby attractions or back to the city center. Public buses are also an option for those who prefer public transport.
