Shenxian Temple

Introducing Shenxian Temple

The Shenxian Temple Buddhist Tourist Area is located in the north of Dingnan County, 3 kilometers from the county seat. A 5-minute drive along the Xiaoding Highway leads to Shenxian Ridge. The first thing that catches your eye is the over 300-meter-long Shenxian Cave, the longest highway tunnel in the province. During the Cultural Revolution, the name was changed to Shengxian Cave to emphasize the principle of man conquering nature. To the east of Shenxian Cave lies Shenxian Temple.

Shenxian Temple, built during the Song Dynasty, is said to be the site where feng shui masters Lai Buyi and Luang Pu competed for a burial site, resulting in excellent feng shui. Because a deity visited the temple during its construction, it was named Shenxian Temple. Having weathered wars and the vicissitudes of time, Shenxian Temple has undergone several destructions and reconstructions. In 1992, it was approved by the State Council as a religious venue.

Renovated and expanded in 1996, it has long been a sacred site for residents of the Jiangxi-Guangdong border region. The expanded main courtyard of Shenxian Temple covers 2,500 square meters and is divided into a front hall and a rear hall. The rear hall houses the Main Hall, the Guanjian Hall, and the Jialan Hall, where Tathagata Buddha, Guanyin Bodhisattva, and Jialan Bodhisattva are enshrined. The front hall houses Maitreya Buddha and Skanda Bodhisattva. The statues within the halls are lifelike, with flowing lines and a vivid, lifelike quality. To the left of the rear hall is the Lai Buyi Fengshui Cultural Expo Hall, displaying a statue of Lai Buyi, five illustrated illustrations of his life, and replicas of his belongings. A pond for releasing animals is located between the front and rear halls.

Climate and best time to travel

The mid-subtropical monsoon humid climate; Shenxian Temple has fresh air, beautiful environment, lingering fragrance, and solemnity, attracting countless guests to make pilgrimages and worship, making it a suitable place for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Main Hall, Guanjian Hall, Jialan Hall, and the Freeing Pond, etc.

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Shenxian Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shenxian Temple in Ganzhou, Jiangxi, is a historical Buddhist temple known for its traditional Chinese architecture, cultural heritage, and role as a center for local religious activities. It reflects centuries of Buddhist practice and local craftsmanship.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, China.
• Accessible by taxi or rideshare from the city center.
• Local buses stop nearby with a short walk to the temple entrance.
• Walking is feasible from nearby accommodations if staying in the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open daily, generally from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Early morning or late afternoon visits offer a quieter and more serene experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fee is typically free or a nominal charge for certain halls. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; online booking is usually not required.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is generally not necessary except during major festivals or public holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 hours is usually sufficient to visit the main halls, gardens, and surrounding areas.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main temple halls with Buddha statues
• Temple gardens and courtyards
• Stone carvings and traditional architectural details
• Prayer and meditation areas
• Special halls or relics if open to visitors

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available in Chinese. Audio guides in English are limited, so self-guided exploration is common for international visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Main hall interiors with Buddha statues
• Temple courtyards and gardens
• Ornate carvings and architectural details
• Views of the temple complex from elevated areas

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Begin at the entrance, visit the main halls, walk through gardens and courtyards, then explore side halls and smaller shrines before exiting near the souvenir area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not allowed. Special ceremonies may occur during Buddhist festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays are less crowded. Public holidays and weekends attract more visitors.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms available near the entrance
• Small shops or stalls for water and snacks
• Seating areas in courtyards or gardens
• Souvenir shops selling Buddhist items and local crafts

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

• Main areas are suitable for elderly and children.
• Some steps or uneven pathways may challenge visitors with mobility issues.
• Wheelchair access is limited in certain parts of the temple.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is generally accepted. Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) may also be available for small purchases or donations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries near the temple serve traditional Jiangxi cuisine, snacks, and beverages. Cafes are limited but available in the city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are usually available at nearby restaurants. Halal options may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Various hotels and guesthouses in Ganzhou city center are within 15–30 minutes by car or taxi.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Ganzhou Ancient City Wall
• Ruijin Revolutionary Memorial Sites
• Local parks and cultural museums

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell Buddhist charms, prayer beads, incense, and small statues.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or rideshare to other attractions or hotels
• Local buses connecting to nearby landmarks
• Private car or guided tour for a full-day itinerary