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Yichun Chandu Cultural Expo Park is a comprehensive cultural park integrating cultural sightseeing, experience, and leisure tourism. It is also China's first expo park themed on Buddhist and Zen culture. Spanning approximately 3,200 mu (approximately 1,000 acres), the main park opened in September 2014 and was approved as a National 4A-level scenic spot in December 2015.
Yichun is the birthplace of Mazu's founding of Buddhist monasteries and Baizhang's establishment of the Pure Rules of Practice. It is also the cradle of three of the "One Flower and Five Leaves" of Zen Buddhism: the Linji, Caodong, and Weiyang schools. Master Hsing Yun, the current President of the International Buddhist Association, personally inscribed "Yichun, the Capital of Zen," and declared, "Yichun is the only place in China worthy of being called the Capital of Zen."
The Chan Expo Park covers approximately 3,200 mu (approximately 1,000 acres) and has a total investment of approximately 650 million yuan. Construction began in November 2010, and the main park opened in September 2014. Located in the core area of the New City District, the park is adjacent to the municipal administrative center, the Yuanzhou District Administrative Center, Yichun East Railway Station, and the Hurui Expressway. Mingyueshan Airport is only a 15-minute drive away, offering convenient transportation.
The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
The Zen Capital Cultural Expo Park has areas for observing Zen, understanding Zen, appreciating Zen and practicing Zen.
Attractions in the Chan Contemplation Zone include the Five-Leaf Monastery, the Lotus Pond, the Four Emptiness Square, the Twelve Sutra Pillars, the Chan Heart Square, the Chan Ladder, the Sculpture of Smiling at the Flower, the Five-Leaf Altar, and the Yichun Chan Sheng Garden. Attractions in the Chan Enlightenment Zone include the Chan Poetry Garden, the Questioning the Way of Chan, the Chan Story Sculpture Garden, the Chan Buddha's Hand, the Hall of Dharma Instruments, and the Hall of Chan Couplets and Stele. Attractions in the Chan Appreciation Zone include the Chan Tea Pavilion, the Buddhist Chanting Concert Hall, and the Moon-Inviting Pond. Attractions in the Chan Cultivation Zone primarily focus on Chongsheng Temple.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
38 yuan/person
08:30-17:30 (Spring and Summer)
08:30-17:00 (Autumn and Winter)
Zen Capital Cultural Expo Park, located in Yichun, Jiangxi, is a comprehensive cultural tourism project that integrates cultural sightseeing, leisure, and tourism real estate. It covers an area of about 3,200 acres and includes various scenic spots such as Wuye Kongmen, Chanxin Square, and the Chan Tea House. Yichun is known as China's "Zen Holy Land" and has a rich Zen Buddhist heritage, being the birthplace of several Zen schools.
The park is situated north of the Outer Ring North Road of Yi Yang New District, south of the extension of Luzhou Road, and west of Xiujiang River. To reach the park, you can take the No. 118 bus. For more convenient access, taxis or private vehicles are recommended.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays to avoid crowds, and early mornings offer a peaceful atmosphere for exploration.
The entrance fee is CNY 95. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the park's ticket counters. It's advisable to check for any online booking options or discounts before visiting.
Advance booking is not mandatory but is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays to ensure entry and avoid long waiting times.
To fully explore the park and appreciate its cultural sites, plan for approximately 3 to 4 hours. This allows time for leisurely walks, photography, and enjoying the scenic spots.
Guided tours are available and can be arranged at the park's entrance. While the primary language is Chinese, some guides may offer services in English. It's advisable to check in advance for language preferences.
Start at the park entrance and visit Wuye Kongmen, then proceed to Chanxin Square. From there, head to the Chan Tea House, followed by Yaoyuetan and Chansheng Garden. Conclude your visit with the Sculpture of Smiling at the Flower and Chan Story Sculpture Garden. This route ensures a comprehensive experience of the park's offerings.
Currently, the park does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours may be available during festivals or cultural events; it's recommended to check the park's official announcements for such occasions.
The park can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, preferably in the early morning hours.
The park is equipped with basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are food stalls and beverage vendors within the park. However, it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks for convenience.
The park is designed to be accessible for all visitors, including the elderly, children, and disabled individuals. Pathways are well-maintained, and electric cars are available to assist with mobility around the park.
Cash is accepted, but it's advisable to use mobile payment methods like Alipay or WeChat Pay for convenience, as they are widely accepted throughout the park.
Inside the park, there are several food stalls offering local snacks and beverages. For a wider selection, consider dining options in the nearby Yi Yang New District or central Yichun.
Vegetarian options are available at the park's food stalls. For specific dietary requirements like vegan or halal, it's recommended to inquire directly with the vendors or explore nearby restaurants in Yichun that cater to these needs.
There are several hotels in Yi Yang New District and central Yichun that offer convenient access to the park. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Yes, there are souvenir shops within the park offering items such as Zen-themed artifacts, local handicrafts, and traditional tea sets. These make for meaningful keepsakes or gifts.
After visiting the park, you can take a taxi or public bus to explore other attractions in Yichun. For longer trips, consider using local transportation services to reach nearby cities or scenic areas.
