Wutun Shang Temple

Introducing Wutunshang Temple

Wutun Shang Monastery, known in Tibetan as "Sanggexiong Huadan Qunjuelin," meaning "Auspicious Dharma and Wealth Continent," is a subsidiary monastery of Longwu Monastery. Founded in 1645, the monastery houses a treasured collection of Shakyamuni Buddha's hair, the relics of Master Fazong, and various statues, thangkas, and other cultural relics. Located in the birthplace of Regong art, the monastery boasts monks who excel in painting, clay sculpture, and carving. Veteran artists are enthusiastic about teaching students, earning it the nickname "Regong Art School."

Wutun Shang Temple is unassuming in appearance, consisting primarily of a large scripture hall, a Sakyamuni Buddha Hall, and a Maitreya Buddha Hall. Entering the hall, one's eyes are dazzled by its extraordinary beauty. Lifelike Buddha statues gleam golden in the dim light, and virtually every space, except the floor, is filled with countless murals and thangkas.

Climate and best time to travel

Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture has a plateau continental climate with long cold periods and short warm and cool periods. It has abundant sunlight, strong solar radiation, distinct dry and wet seasons, rainy and hot seasons in the same season, and frequent night rains and strong winds.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for one hour

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Most Popular FAQs for Wutun Shang Temple

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

Wutun Shang Temple, located in the Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai, is an important Tibetan Buddhist temple. It is famous for its rich cultural heritage and its role as a center for Tibetan Buddhist teachings and practices. The temple is known for its stunning murals, which depict Buddhist teachings, and its architectural beauty, which blends Tibetan and Chinese styles.

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

Wutun Shang Temple is located in the Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. The best way to reach the temple is by taxi or bus from Xining, the nearest city. Public transport options are limited, so hiring a taxi or arranging private transport is recommended for ease of travel.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially on weekends or during Tibetan festivals.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance, as online ticket sales are not common for this attraction.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can buy tickets directly at the entrance when you arrive.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It usually takes about 1-2 hours to explore the temple, including time for sightseeing, photography, and experiencing the religious ambiance.

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

• The main prayer hall, where the central Buddhist statues are located.
• The intricate murals and frescoes on the walls, which depict Tibetan Buddhist deities and teachings.
• The surrounding temple gardens and scenic views of the Tibetan plateau.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and Tibetan. It is best to arrange a tour with a local guide upon arrival at the temple. Audio guides are not commonly offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main temple courtyard provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
• Inside the prayer halls, the murals and Buddha statues offer excellent photo opportunities.
• The elevated areas around the temple grounds offer panoramic views of the landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance and visit the central prayer hall first. Then explore the temple's other halls and admire the murals. Conclude your visit with a peaceful walk around the temple grounds or meditation areas for reflection.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at Wutun Shang Temple. The temple operates only during the day, with a peaceful atmosphere ideal for daytime visits.

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

The temple can be crowded during major Tibetan Buddhist festivals or holidays. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays and outside of peak travel seasons.

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

The temple has basic facilities, including toilets and small rest areas. However, there are no large food courts or shops inside the temple. Local vendors may sell simple snacks and souvenirs outside the temple.

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

The temple grounds are generally accessible, but some areas may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. It’s recommended to check with the local guides or temple staff for further assistance on accessibility options.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred at the temple, and mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay may not be widely accepted. It's recommended to carry cash, especially for purchasing tickets or souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside the temple complex, but local Tibetan restaurants and cafes can be found in the nearby town. These offer traditional Tibetan meals such as momos and thukpa.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local Tibetan restaurants, but vegan or halal food may be limited. It's best to ask the restaurant for specific dietary options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are small guesthouses and hotels in the nearby town of Huangnan, offering budget to mid-range accommodations.
• For more luxurious stays, Xining, the provincial capital, has several hotels and resorts that are accessible by a short drive.

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

• The nearby Longwu Temple, another important Tibetan Buddhist site, can be visited in a day trip.
• The Amdo Tibetan Monastery and other scenic areas around Huangnan offer a rich cultural experience.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small souvenir shops near the temple offer Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer beads, Tibetan jewelry, thangkas (Tibetan paintings), and religious items like prayer flags and statues of Buddha.

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

After visiting Wutun Shang Temple, taxis or local buses can be used to continue the journey to nearby attractions or to return to Xining. Renting a car for a more flexible trip is also a good option.