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Xiangyan Temple, located in Baiya Mountain in Cangfang Town, Xichuan County, is one of the four famous temples in Henan Province. It was built in the second year of the Kaiyuan Period of the Tang Dynasty ( 714 AD ) and served as the training ground for Huizhong, the imperial preceptor during the reigns of Emperor Suzong and Emperor Daizong. During the reign of Emperor Daizong, it was designated a national institution. Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty, Li Chen, shaved his head and took refuge here for seven years before ascending the throne.
Xiangyan Temple originally consisted of two Zen monasteries: the Upper Temple and the Lower Temple. In 1968 , the Lower Temple was submerged in the vast Danjiangkou Reservoir, leaving only the Upper Temple. At its peak, the Upper Temple boasted over 400 halls and pavilions. After experiencing ups and downs, it now boasts over 140 Ming and Qing dynasty buildings .
Shangsi Temple is surrounded by mountains on all sides, shaped like a lotus, with the temple situated right in the center. Facing south and nestled against the mountain's slope, the temple comprises five courtyards arranged along a central axis. Its layout is rigorous and magnificent, with halls and pavilions crisscrossing one another. The temple boasts " three wonders and one treasure " : brick carvings, wood carvings, stone carvings, and murals. Three wonders are also noted: the " Beauty Embracing a General " tree, the itchy tree that can discern good from evil, and the " Aura Treasure Land . "
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
80 yuan/person
8:30-17:00
Xiangyan Temple is an important Buddhist site in Nanyang, Henan, with a history dating back several centuries. It serves as a center for religious practice, cultural preservation, and showcases traditional Chinese temple architecture.
Located in Nanyang city, Henan Province. Visitors can reach the temple by local bus, taxi, or private car. Walking is possible from nearby city areas.
Open generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic surroundings.
Entrance fees are modest and tickets are purchased at the entrance. Online booking options may be available through local tourism platforms.
Advance booking is usually not required except during public holidays or for group visits.
1–2 hours are sufficient to explore the main halls, courtyards, and surrounding gardens.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides are limited and may not be offered in other languages.
Enter through the main gate, visit the central courtyard, proceed to the main halls, explore side halls and gardens, and finish with the pagoda area.
Night visits are generally not allowed. Special tours may be arranged during festivals or cultural events.
Weekdays are less crowded. Public holidays and weekends are busier.
Facilities include restrooms, small refreshment stalls, seating areas, and souvenir shops near the entrance.
Mostly accessible for elderly and children; some areas may have steps or uneven paths that are challenging for disabled visitors.
Cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted for tickets and purchases.
Nearby restaurants and cafes offer local Henan cuisine, snacks, and tea.
Vegetarian options are generally available; vegan and halal options are limited and may require inquiry.
Several hotels and guesthouses are within a short drive from Xiangyan Temple, providing convenient lodging for visitors.
Souvenir shops sell prayer beads, Buddhist-themed crafts, postcards, and traditional artifacts.
Taxi, ride-hailing services, and local buses are convenient for reaching nearby attractions or returning to Nanyang city center.
