One door

Introducing Yimentian

Located on the winding path south of Hongmen Palace, the Yitianmen Archway was built during the Ming Dynasty and inscribed by Councillor Long Guang. It was rebuilt in 1717, the 56th year of the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, and inscribed "Yitianmen" by Li Shude, the Governor-General of the Censorate. On either side are large steles inscribed with the words "Wonder of the World" and "Where the Winding Road Begins" by Ming Dynasty figures. While the Daizong Archway serves as the main entrance to Mount Tai, the Yitianmen Gate marks the beginning of the ladder to heaven, symbolizing the gradual ascent of people from the mortal realm into heaven.

Located in the north of Daizongfang, Shandong Province, at the northern end of Hongmen Road, it faces Zhongxi River to the east and Dazangling Mountain to the west. The palace is named after the red stone gate-like structure on the cliff south of the ridge. The founding date is unknown, but it was rebuilt during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The temple is divided into two courtyards, the Maitreya Courtyard in the east and the Red Gate Palace in the west, connected by the Feiyun Pavilion. The main hall of the east courtyard originally enshrined a wooden Maitreya Buddha, but was destroyed in 1966. To the east stood a hall-like changing pavilion, where emperors and officials would change clothes upon climbing the mountain; it is now used as a teahouse. To the south is a hall-like courtyard. The west courtyard houses the Yuanjun Temple. Its main hall originally enshrined Yuanjun, the Goddess of Birth, and the Grandmother of Eyesight; it now houses a bronze statue of the Nine Lotus Bodhisattva. To the west stood the Qiezhi Pavilion, now a photography exhibition room showcasing Mount Tai scenery. To the south is a hall-like tea pavilion. Behind the main hall are the Zen Courtyard and east and west ancillary rooms. The Feiyun Pavilion originally enshrined the Bodhisattva Guanyin; it is now a viewing platform. In front of the palace stands a three-tiered stone archway shaped like a stairway.

Climate and best time to travel

Warm temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

In front of it is the Tianmen Archway, built in the Ming Dynasty and inscribed by Councillor Long Guang. It was rebuilt by Governor Li Shude in 1717, the 56th year of the Kangxi Emperor's reign. On either side are large steles inscribed with the words "A Wonder of the World" and "Where the Winding Road Begins" by Ming Dynasty figures. In the middle is the Confucius Ascent Archway, built in 1560 by Zhu Heng, Right Deputy Censor-in-Chief of the Shandong Provincial Censorate, and others. The Jiajing top scholar Luo Hongxian inscribed the inscription with the couplet: "The King of Qin's unique legacy will be passed down through the ages; the Holy Lord's presence will celebrate for eternity." The couplet was chiseled away in 1967. To the west of the archway stands the "Monument to the Planting of Cypresses on Mount Tai," written by the Tai'an prefect in the early Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty. It is a suitable spot for sightseeing.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for One door

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

The "One Door" in Jining, Shandong, is historically significant as a symbol of the region’s ancient culture and architectural styles. It represents traditional Chinese building design, offering insight into the history of the area and its past inhabitants. The site is also connected with local legends and offers a glimpse into China's architectural evolution.

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

The "One Door" Scenic Area is located in Jining, Shandong. The site is accessible via taxi, local buses, or walking from nearby points in Jining city center. As it is a popular tourist spot, taxis and buses are commonly used for access.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The "One Door" is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the site is less crowded during weekdays compared to weekends and public holidays.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 40-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, though during peak seasons, it's recommended to buy tickets online to avoid long queues.

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

While booking in advance is not mandatory, it is advisable to do so during holidays or peak seasons. Booking at least 1-2 days in advance is a good practice to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore the site in about 1-2 hours. This allows for a detailed tour of the main features, photo opportunities, and enjoying the surroundings.

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

The main highlight is the ancient architectural structure of the "One Door." Visitors should also check out the surrounding gardens and nature spots which offer beautiful scenic views for photography.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be available, but they are typically in Mandarin, with occasional English-language options depending on demand.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the "One Door" itself, the surrounding gardens, and areas with panoramic views of the landscape. The architecture and nature blend seamlessly, offering great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the "One Door" structure, then explore the nearby gardens and scenic viewpoints. If time allows, take a short walk around the area to enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available. The attraction is best experienced during the daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and surrounding nature.

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

The site can get crowded during weekends and holidays, particularly in the summer and fall. The best time to visit to avoid crowds is early in the morning or on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available on-site. There are small kiosks selling snacks and drinks, but no large restaurants or extensive shopping facilities within the attraction itself.

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

The attraction is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, with well-maintained walking paths. However, the site may have some uneven terrain, so visitors with mobility issues may find certain areas challenging.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are preferred in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it's best to use digital payment methods or carry cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the entrance serving traditional Shandong cuisine. For more options, you can head to Jining city center, which has a variety of dining choices.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some nearby restaurants, though halal food options may be limited. It's advisable to check with local eateries in advance for specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several budget and mid-range hotels are available in Jining city center. For a more traditional experience, consider staying in guesthouses or small inns nearby the scenic area.

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

Nearby attractions include the Kong Mansion and Qufu, which is famous for its historical and cultural significance as the hometown of Confucius. You can also visit the Temple of Confucius and other landmarks in Qufu for a cultural day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the entrance, selling traditional Chinese crafts such as calligraphy sets, tea sets, and local Shandong specialties. Souvenir tea and regional snacks are also popular.

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

After visiting, taxis and buses are the most common modes of transportation. The Jining city center is accessible by taxi, and for longer trips, you can use the Jining railway station or bus terminals for onward travel.