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Visitors to Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple can enjoy a variety of activities that blend spirituality, nature, and cultural exploration. Key highlights include:
Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple is located on Guanyin Mountain in Hefengqiao Township, 18 kilometers north of Shangcheng. Yunji Temple, a large Taoist temple, is located here. It is the seat of the Xinyang Taoist Association and a renowned Taoist attraction in the mountainous area of southern Henan. Qin Dynasty historical records referred to it as "Crutch Mountain," and during the Tang Dynasty, it was called "Guantie Mountain." Later, according to legend, the anti-Yuan general Yu Siming observed his troops' formations here, leading the locals to call it Guanzhen Mountain. During the Xuande period of the Ming Dynasty, local residents donated money and materials to build a temple on the mountaintop, housing a statue of Guanyin, which gave the mountain its name, "Guanyin Mountain."
By the Qing Dynasty, Guanyinshan Temple had already reached considerable scale and influence, attracting visitors from several counties across three provinces for sightseeing and worship. Ma Yangqi, the twelfth-generation disciple of the Longmen School of Taoism, came here to practice and preach, and took Yan Laiming, a disciple from Guanyinshan Temple, as his apprentice. As the temple's popularity grew, the Guanyin Hall, Dongyue Hall, and Sanqing Hall, comprising 50 rooms, were built. Every year on the 19th day of the second and ninth lunar months, a temple fair was held, attracting over 100,000 people from dozens of counties and districts across Hubei, Henan, and Anhui provinces to burn incense and worship. Guanyinshan became a bustling distribution center for goods from Hubei, Henan, and Anhui, bringing a vibrant atmosphere.
In 1938, the then-warlord Wu Peifu led his troops through Shangcheng, en route to attack Wuhan. En route, he saw the majestic Yunji Temple on Guanyin Mountain, its vibrant incense offerings, and resounding bells. Excited, he declared that Guanyin Mountain had blessed him with victory and decided to inscribe a plaque for it. Wu Peifu later won the battle and captured Wuhan. Fulfilling his promise, Wu Peifu crafted a large plaque in Wuhan, inscribed with "Presented by General Wu Peifu of the Republic of China," and dispatched it to Guanyin Mountain, where it was hung above the main gate of Yunji Temple. For a time, Guanyin Mountain attracted countless eminent monks, scholars, lay Buddhists, and Taoists of all stripes to cultivate their faith, ushering in a period of prosperity for Taoism on Guanyin Mountain.
Boasting a subtropical monsoon climate, Yunji Temple is the seat of the Xinyang Taoist Association and a famous Taoist resort in the mountainous area of southern Henan. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
During the reconstruction process, Yunji Temple collected two copper incense burners from the Xuande period of the Ming Dynasty, half of a plaque donated by Wu Peifu that was used by the people to build houses, a rubbing of the image of Guanyin from the Shaolin Temple, and ancient inscriptions such as "Taishang Ganyingtian", which became the treasures of the temple and are extremely precious.
The rebuilt Yunji Temple is built on the top of the mountain. It is large in scale and magnificent in appearance. It has many halls arranged around the mountain from west to east. It is 200 meters long from east to west, with a construction area of 2,500 square meters and an area of 40 acres. It roughly forms three courtyards of upper, middle and lower levels, and the halls are deep and secluded.
The renovated Yunji Temple features red walls and gray tiles, a vermilion-lacquered gate, and a hall with a corridor lined with red-lacquered pillars. These halls enshrine deities such as the Three Pure Ones, Guanyin, the Jade Emperor, and Yuewang. These deities, each in their own unique form, some benevolent, some noble and majestic, and some with glaring eyes, are truly breathtaking. The interior boasts carved beams and painted rafters, bright wooden windows, and a roof with soaring eaves and angled corners, resplendent with dragons and phoenixes dancing in the wind.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
free
08:00-17:00
Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple is a revered Buddhist site dedicated to Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The temple's history is intertwined with the region's spiritual heritage, serving as a center for Buddhist practice and pilgrimage. Its location on Guanyin Mountain adds to its significance, offering visitors a tranquil environment for reflection and connection with nature.
Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple is situated in Hefengqiao Township, Shangcheng County, Xinyang City, Henan Province. To reach the temple, visitors can take a bus or taxi from Xinyang city center, followed by a short walk to the temple entrance.
The temple is generally open to visitors during daylight hours. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons, offering a peaceful atmosphere and optimal lighting for photography.
As of the latest available information, there is no entrance fee for visiting Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple. Visitors can access the temple freely without the need for prior ticket purchase.
No advance booking is required for visiting the temple, as it does not charge an entrance fee. Visitors can arrive and enter the temple during its open hours without prior arrangements.
A visit to Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple typically takes about 2 to 3 hours. This allows ample time to explore the temple grounds, hike nearby trails, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Key highlights of the temple include the main hall dedicated to Guanyin, the tranquil meditation areas, and the scenic viewpoints offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Currently, there is no information available regarding the availability of guided tours or audio guides at Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple. Visitors may explore the temple independently or seek information from local volunteers or signage.
The best viewpoints for photography are from the elevated platforms near the temple, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the photographic experience.
A recommended itinerary includes starting at the main entrance, visiting the main hall, exploring the surrounding gardens, and then ascending to the nearby hiking trails for panoramic views. Conclude with a visit to the meditation areas for reflection.
Currently, there is no information available about night visits, light shows, or special tours at Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple. The temple primarily operates during daylight hours.
The temple can experience moderate crowds, especially during weekends and public holidays. To enjoy a more peaceful visit, consider coming on weekdays, particularly in the early morning hours.
Basic facilities such as public restrooms are available at the temple. However, there are limited options for food and water within the temple grounds. Visitors are advised to bring their own refreshments.
The temple's terrain includes uneven paths and steps, which may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. While children can enjoy the open spaces, supervision is recommended due to the temple's layout.
Since there is no entrance fee and limited commercial activity within the temple, cash or digital payments are generally not required. However, it's advisable to carry some cash if planning to purchase offerings or souvenirs from nearby vendors.
There are no restaurants or cafes within the temple grounds. Visitors may find local eateries in the nearby towns or along the route to the temple.
While specific dietary options are not detailed, the region offers a variety of local cuisines. It's advisable to inquire at local restaurants about vegetarian, vegan, or halal options.
Accommodation options near Guanyin Mountain Yunji Temple include local guesthouses and hotels in Xinyang City. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Nearby attractions include the Guanyin Mountain Scenic Area and Sanjiao Cave. These sites offer additional cultural and natural experiences, making them suitable for a combined day trip.
There are limited souvenir shops within the temple grounds. Visitors may find Buddhist-themed items such as incense, statues, and prayer beads.
After visiting the temple, visitors can return to Xinyang City by taxi or local bus. For further travel, options include trains or buses to nearby cities.
