Live Your Best Lives
Visit the Fengqing Stone Cave Temple to explore its ancient Buddhist carvings and stone architecture. Experience the serene atmosphere of the temple while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. It's also a great place to learn about the local culture and religion.
Fengqing Shidong Temple is located in Jingtou Village, Yi Township, 30 kilometers southeast of Fengqing County. It was built during the Qianlong and Jiaqing periods of the Qing Dynasty (1794 AD) and rebuilt in 1926. The temple buildings include a main hall, two side rooms, an arch bridge, a lotus pond, and two pavilions.
The Shidong Temple boasts five buildings and 11 rooms, including a main hall, side rooms, and secondary residences. It also boasts an ancient camellia tree, more than two feet tall enough to be embraced. It's named Pumen Camellia, known for its nine-stamen and eighteen-petal camellia, and is as famous as the temple itself. The twin pavilions in front of the temple, built during the Daoguang and Xianfeng reigns of the Qing Dynasty (roughly 1848-1853 AD), stand facing each other on two giant rocks, connected by a stone bridge. The arch bridge and flower ponds are located in the steep terrain, creating a picturesque scene.
The subtropical low-latitude mountain monsoon climate has a small temperature difference between the four seasons, distinct dry and wet seasons, and significant vertical changes. There is no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for about 30 minutes.
free
08:00-17:00
The Fengqing Stone Cave Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple carved into stone, with a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The temple is significant for its intricate carvings and its role in spreading Buddhism in the region. It serves as a place of worship and a historical site for visitors to learn about the ancient culture of Yunnan.
The Fengqing Stone Cave Temple is located in Fengqing County, Lincang City, Yunnan Province. You can get there by taxi from Lincang city center, or by local buses that service the area. Walking might be an option if you're nearby, but transportation is typically recommended for convenience.
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 crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee is around ¥30-¥40. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. It’s not necessary to book tickets online, although some websites may offer advanced booking during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but if you plan to visit during the peak tourist season (such as holidays), it might be a good idea to reserve your tickets a few days ahead.
You will need approximately 1-2 hours to fully explore the temple and its surroundings. Take your time to admire the carvings, the natural setting, and the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
The must-see highlights include the Buddhist stone carvings, the main temple hall, and the serene cave formations. Don’t miss the view from the temple’s surrounding cliffs, which offer a beautiful panoramic perspective of the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English and Mandarin may be offered, but it's recommended to check availability at the entrance. Self-guided exploration is also a good option for those who prefer a more independent visit.
The best photography spots are near the stone carvings and around the temple's main entrance, where you can capture both the intricate details of the temple and the scenic views of the surrounding nature. The cliffs surrounding the temple also offer great photo opportunities.
Start at the main entrance and explore the outer courtyards before heading into the cave temples. After viewing the carvings, walk up to the higher viewpoints to capture the surrounding landscape. Conclude your visit by spending some time in the main temple hall for a peaceful reflection.
Night visits or light shows are not available at Fengqing Stone Cave Temple. However, special tours may be available during festival seasons or for group visits, so it's worth inquiring in advance if you're interested in a more personalized experience.
The site can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, particularly during the tourist season. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Basic facilities are available, including public toilets and a small rest area. There are also some local shops selling snacks and souvenirs. However, there are limited food options on-site, so it’s advisable to bring water and snacks if needed.
The temple is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some steps may be challenging. The terrain is uneven in parts, and the higher viewpoints may require some physical effort. It’s best to consult with the staff for advice if you have mobility concerns.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it’s best to carry cash or use mobile payment methods.
There are a few local restaurants nearby serving traditional Yunnan cuisine, but dining options on-site are limited. For more variety, head to Lincang city center, where you can find a range of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be limited. It's recommended to check ahead with the restaurants for specific dietary needs.
There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels near the site. For more comfortable or luxury accommodations, consider staying in Lincang city center, where you’ll find a wider range of options.
Nearby attractions include the Lincang City Museum, the Yunnan Stone Forest, and other local natural and cultural sites. These can easily be combined into a day trip from Fengqing Stone Cave Temple.
There are souvenir shops selling local crafts, including traditional Yunnan textiles, handicrafts, and Buddhist-related items. Popular souvenirs include small stone carvings and local tea.
After visiting Fengqing Stone Cave Temple, you can take a taxi or local bus to Lincang city center. The city is well-connected by bus and taxi services, and you can also take a train or bus to other major tourist destinations in Yunnan.
