Wenfeng Temple

Introducing Wenfeng Temple

Wenfeng Temple is located at the foot of Wenbi Peak at the southwest end of Lijiang Basin, 8 kilometers away from Lijiang County. It was built in the 11th year of Yongzheng's reign in the Qing Dynasty. Its Tibetan name is Sangnajia Zhuolin (meaning a secret religious institution and a lama temple of happiness).

Originally the site of Lingshou Temple, in the 11th year of the Yongzheng reign (1733), the Karmapa preached here and built a thatched hut. In the 4th year of the Qianlong reign (1739), the Mu clan chieftain of Lijiang invited the Four Treasures Dharma Kings of the Karma Kagyu sect to Lijiang to spread Buddhism and asked the Grand Situ Dharma King to select a site for the temple. The temple was completed the following year and expanded in the 8th year of the Daoguang reign (1828), becoming Wenfeng Temple. It is one of the highest institutions of learning within the Karma Kagyu White Sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

Wenfeng Temple currently comprises the main building, the main hall, and two courtyards of monks' quarters. The main hall is a three-tiered pavilion-style structure, 22 meters wide and 20.2 meters deep. Its top floor, a four-cornered pointed roof, resembles a square pavilion. The eaves of the first and second floors are decorated with unusually shaped brackets, creating a spacious interior. Six square golden pillars, carved with lotus petals and various motifs, support large corbels adorned with scrolling clouds. The corbels are covered in gold foil, creating a sense of elegance and grandeur. The caisson ceiling, featuring the Eight Treasures of Tibetan Buddhism and the Vajra Seat, exudes a distinct local flavor.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate; the scenery of Wenfeng Temple is recognized as the best of all temples in Lijiang, and it is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

80 yuan/person (included in the Wenbi Mountain ticket)

Attraction opening hours

8:30-18:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Wenfeng Temple

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

Wenfeng Temple dates back to the Ming Dynasty and holds cultural and religious significance. It is an important site for Buddhist worship in Lijiang and has a rich history tied to the local culture and religious practices.

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

Wenfeng Temple is located in Lijiang, Yunnan, and is accessible by taxi or public bus from the city center. It is also possible to walk if you're staying nearby. The temple is located on a hill, providing a nice view of the surrounding area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends and during public holidays.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the temple. It’s recommended to buy tickets on-site, as online booking is not always available.

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

It is generally not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during a peak season like Chinese New Year or National Holidays. For such occasions, it’s advisable to book a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically need about 1 to 2 hours to explore the temple, depending on the time spent in each area and the desire to take photos or meditate.

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

The must-see highlights include the main hall of the temple, the beautiful pagoda, and the scenic viewpoints around the temple offering panoramic views of Lijiang.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are typically not provided. However, some local guides offer private tours in English for a fee.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the temple's main hall and the pagoda, as well as the view from the temple over the surrounding mountains and Lijiang Old Town.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main hall, then proceed to the pagoda and the various smaller halls inside the temple. Take time to explore the scenic areas around the temple for stunning views of the city.

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

Night visits or light shows are not typically available at Wenfeng Temple, but the temple is beautifully serene in the evening, making it a peaceful place for reflection or evening walks.

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

The temple can get crowded on weekends and during holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings during weekdays.

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

The temple has basic facilities like restrooms and water fountains. There are no large food stalls inside, but you can find small shops selling snacks and souvenirs around the area.

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

Although the temple is generally accessible, the path to the main temple and pagoda involves some steps, so it might be challenging for visitors with mobility issues or strollers. However, elderly and children can still enjoy the temple's lower areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for entrance fees, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at the entrance.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes near the temple, offering local Yunnan cuisine. Some popular options include traditional tea houses and small eateries in Lijiang Old Town.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants in the area. Vegan and halal food options are limited but can be found in specific eateries catering to those needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are located near Wenfeng Temple, including options in Lijiang Old Town. Some notable places include Lijiang Ancient Town Hotel and Banyan Tree Lijiang, which are a short drive away from the temple.

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

Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, the Black Dragon Pool, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. These landmarks can be easily visited in a day trip from Wenfeng Temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the temple and in Lijiang Old Town. Typical souvenirs include handcrafted jewelry, Tibetan textiles, tea sets, and local handicrafts.

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

After visiting, you can continue your trip by taxi, or use local buses to visit nearby attractions like Lijiang Old Town or Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Biking is also a popular option if you're looking for a more scenic route.