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Tianning Temple is located in the western section of Wenfeng Middle Road, Wenfeng District, Anyang City. It was first built in the early years of Renshou reign of Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty (601 AD). It was expanded and renovated in the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. In the 37th year of Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1772 AD), it was renovated by Huang Bangning, the prefect of Zhangde Prefecture (the ancient name of Anyang), and its scale reached an unprecedented level. At that time, there were hundreds of pavilions, terraces, towers, pavilions, halls, temples and buildings.
According to the existing stele of "Reconstruction Map of Tianning Temple" in the 37th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign in the Qing Dynasty, "... During the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, the Buddhist Administration was established here. Its scale was magnificent, and it was the largest among the monasteries in the north and south. The temple has the Tianning Temple Pagoda (Wenfeng Pagoda) with five levels. As you go up, it becomes gradually wider. There is a platform on the top that can accommodate 200 people. You can see the Taihang Mountains in the distance clearly... Over the years, the temple has turned into rubble, but this pagoda remains..." The upper body of the pagoda has five eaves, which gradually increase in size from bottom to top.
The brackets on each eaves are different. A bronze bell is attached to the octagonal eaves, tinkling in the breeze, creating a sense of lofty tranquility. The pagoda's summit features a pagoda wheel and a pagoda cap. The lower body of the pagoda has a door on each front, the southern side being the true door, while the others are false.
Tianning Temple in Anyang, nestled in a temperate monsoon climate, boasts the five-story Tianning Temple Pagoda (Wenfeng Pagoda). Ascending from the bottom, the pagoda gradually widens, with a platform at the summit accommodating 200 people. From there, one can gaze upon the Taihang Mountains in the distance. Wenfeng Pagoda is a unique structure, suitable for a visit in all seasons.
The upper body of the pagoda features five levels of eaves, gradually increasing in size from bottom to top. The brackets on each eave vary. A bronze bell is attached to the octagonal eaves, tinkling in the breeze, creating a sense of lofty tranquility. A pagoda wheel and a pagoda cap are located on the top of the pagoda. The lower body of the pagoda has a door on each front: the south one is the real door, while the others are false. A brick carving of two dragons playing with a pearl adorns the arched gates. To the south are three Buddha statues; in the southwest corner is a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha preaching; to the west is a scene depicting the birth of Prince Siddhartha; in the northwest corner is a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha practicing asceticism in the snowy mountains; to the north are statues of Guanyin Bodhisattva and the Dragon Girl; in the northeast corner is a statue of the Buddha preaching to celestial beings; in the east is a scene depicting Sakyamuni Buddha's nirvana; and in the southeast corner are images of the Persian king and his queen attending the Buddha's lecture. These reliefs are vividly sculpted, with realistic expressions and natural poses, creating a lifelike experience that is a rare artistic treasure.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
25 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
Anyang Tianning Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple with historical significance, reflecting traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture and religious practices. It serves as a cultural landmark in Anyang, representing local spiritual heritage and historical continuity.
The temple is located in Anyang, Henan Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or ride-hailing services from Anyang city center. Local buses may provide access, followed by a short walk to the temple entrance.
Typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for pleasant weather and visiting comfort.
Entrance fee is generally low, around 10–20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; online booking is limited.
Advance booking is usually unnecessary except during holidays or peak tourist periods.
1–2 hours is sufficient to explore the temple halls, pagodas, and gardens at a relaxed pace.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese. Audio guides and foreign-language tours are limited.
Night visits and light shows are generally not offered. Special ceremonies may occur on Buddhist festivals.
Weekdays and mornings are less crowded. Holidays and weekends attract more visitors.
Most areas are accessible, but some sections have stairs. Suitable for elderly and children with supervision. Wheelchair access may be limited in older halls.
Cash is accepted. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are often supported.
Local eateries near the temple serve Henan cuisine. Small cafes or food stalls provide snacks and beverages.
Vegetarian options are commonly available; vegan and halal options are limited.
Several mid-range hotels and guesthouses are available in Anyang city. Advance booking is recommended during holidays.
Shops near the temple sell religious items, small handicrafts, postcards, and local snacks.
