Hanging Temple in Jiangnan

Introducing the Hanging Temple of Jiangnan

The Jiangnan Hanging Temple, also known as the Daciyan Hanging Temple, is located in the scenic Daciyan Scenic Area. Because half of the hanging temple hall is embedded in the belly of the rock and the other half is suspended in the air, it is strange, dangerous and spectacular. It is more than 60 meters higher than the famous Hanging Temple of Hengshan in Shanxi . The architectural style is similar, so it is called the "Jiangnan Hanging Temple"!

From a distance, the temple appears to soar into the clouds, while from the top, one can take in the mountains and rivers both near and far, making it seem as if it is suspended in the air. The temple consists of 40 halls and pavilions, ostensibly supported by a dozen wooden pillars as thick as bowls, though some actually bear no weight at all, giving it a breathtaking, unique, and spectacular appearance.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time:

Tickets

Tickets are included in the Daciyan Scenic Area ticket

Attraction opening hours

7:30-16:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Hanging Temple in Jiangnan

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

The Hanging Temple in Jiangnan (Daciyan Scenic Area, Jiande, Hangzhou) is a cliff-side temple built into and hanging from the rock face, sometimes called “the Hanging Temple of Jiangnan”. It dates from the Yuan Dynasty (700+ years old) and is admired for its bold construction (half embedded in rock, half suspended) and spectacular location. It’s become a landmark of Jiande and a showpiece of architecture and nature.

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

• Location: Daciyan Scenic Area, Daciyan Town, Jiande City, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.
• By train/bus/taxi: Take high-speed rail to Jiande Station, then taxi (~30-40 minutes) to Daciyan. Or drive/self-drive from Hangzhou.
• On-site: Once you arrive at the scenic area, you can walk the mountain path, or take a cable car up to the temple area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Opening hours: Reports suggest around 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM for some facilities in the scenic area.
• Best time to visit: Mid-November to early December for autumn ginkgo colours; mornings on weekdays to avoid crowds.

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

Current adult ticket around ¥ 80 RMB for entry. Additional charges for cable car (~¥ 80 up) and slide down (~¥ 60) reported. Tickets can be bought offline at the entrance; some online platforms list the scenic area tickets.

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

Advance booking is not strictly required for normal days. However, for busy holiday periods or for cable-car rides, booking ahead (1-2 days) is advisable to secure slots.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for around 2 to 3 hours to visit the temple, walk the cliff paths, see major highlights, and perhaps ride the slide or glass walkway. For a more relaxed visit including lunch or photo stops, half a day is ideal.

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

• The Hanging Temple itself – cliff halls and walkways.
• The ancient ginkgo tree (over 700 years) near the temple.
• The “Double-Sided Buddha” statue / natural Buddha formation on the mountain top.
• The glass plank road and mountain slide (if open) for thrills.

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

No widely documented standard audio-guide or tour in English. Most services likely in Chinese. Hire a local guide if you prefer English commentary.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The temple façade from the valley below, showing “hanging in the cliff”.
• The glass walkway vantage point looking down at the valley.
• The ginkgo tree in autumn when leaves turn golden.
• The “Double-Sided Buddha” viewpoint on the summit ridge.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at scenic area entrance → cable car or walk up mountain path → reach Hanging Temple → explore cliff halls → proceed to summit ridge for “Double-Sided Buddha” and ginkgo tree → if desired, glass plank road or slide down to exit.

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

Night visits and light shows are not commonly mentioned for this site; it's primarily a daytime nature & architecture experience.

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

The site is popular in autumn and at weekends. To avoid crowds, visit on a weekday morning outside holiday peaks.

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

• Facilities: Basic visitor amenities at the entrance and cable-car station (toilets, rest areas, small snack stalls).
• Food & refreshments: Local eateries near the scenic area entrance; within the temple area offerings are limited—carry water/snacks.

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

The route involves mountain walking, stairs, and cliff-walks—those with limited mobility may find parts challenging. Taking the cable car reduces climbing. Children should be supervised on cliff paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay/Alipay) are widely accepted in Zhejiang; ticketing at entrance likely supports them. Carry some cash for small vendors if needed.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants in Jiande or at the scenic area foot serve local Hangzhou/Zhejiang dishes, snacks like Jiande tofu bun and Yanzhou crisp cake.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian meals (temple or Buddhist-style) may be available in the area; halal specific options may be limited—ask in local eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Homestays and guesthouses near Daciyan (e.g., wooden cottage stays) are available; also hotels in Jiande town.

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

• The scenic area’s Yuhua Lake, glass walkway and mountain slide.
• Xin’an River or Qili Yangfan scenic zones in Jiande region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes – souvenir shops near the entrance sell local crafts, postcards, stamps, snacks like Jiande tofu bun, and ginkgo leaf-themed items in autumn.

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

• Taxi or ride-hail back to Jiande station or Hangzhou city.
• Continue by car or bus to other scenic spots in Jiande region (mountain parks, river cruises).