Yuhua Xuanzang Memorial Hall

Introducing Yuhua Xuanzang Memorial Hall

The Xuanzang Memorial Hall, nestled within the beautiful Yuhua Palace in the northern suburbs of Tongchuan City, Shaanxi Province, is a place of scenic beauty. Master Xuanzang of the Tang Dynasty translated 1,335 volumes of Buddhist scriptures, 682 of which were completed at Yuhua Palace. Xuanzang spent over six years translating Buddhist scriptures at Yuhua Temple, ultimately completing the Buddhist scriptures he had retrieved and passing away there. While Yuhua Temple has since become a ruin, the Xuanzang Memorial Hall, built on the former site of Yuhua Palace, is now open to the public, showcasing artifacts, scriptures, images, and statues related to Xuanzang.

The Xuanzang Memorial Hall comprises the Tripitaka Hall, the Forest of Steles Hall, and the Cultural Relics Exhibition Hall. Spanning 150 mu (approximately 16 acres), the hall represents a 15 million yuan investment. The hall features 40 large-scale scenes, including "Phoenix Singing over the Chen River," "Ordination at the Pure Land Temple," "Visiting Famous Teachers," "Westward through Yumen," "Alliance with Gaochang," "Desert Severity," "Distress in the Dense Forest," "Mountain Village Song and Dance," "Heaven Collapse and Earth Shattering," "Afghan Folk Customs," "Nepalese Royal Palace," "Nalanda Temple," "Indian Scenery," "Sounds Shaking the Five Indian States," "Meeting with the Tang Emperor," "Translation of Scriptures at the Wild Goose Pagoda," and "Hall of the Five Hundred Arhats." Utilizing high-tech controls, including audio, video, and lighting, visitors can immerse themselves in the customs of the Central Plains, the wonders of the Three Gorges, the majestic ancient city, the vast northern desert, and the renowned mountains and rivers, palaces, primeval forests, and Buddhist customs of Central and South Asia.

Climate and best time to travel

The warm temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The corridors on either side of the Sanzangyuan are decorated with 100-meter-long white marble reliefs depicting Xuanzang's life. The museum also houses my country's oldest stone Buddha footprint, recorded as commissioned by Master Xuanzang; a 7.5-meter-tall Tang Dynasty Dharani Pillar; numerous Buddhist scriptures translated and circulated by Master Xuanzang; a stone Vajra Seat with an inscription in Xuanzang's hand; Emperor Taizong of Tang's "Edict on the Construction of the Yuhua Palace"; and the original text of Xuanzang's "A Letter of Thanks for Entering the Mountains," among other invaluable historical documents.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Yuhua Xuanzang Memorial Hall

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

The Yuhua Xuanzang Memorial Hall commemorates Xuanzang, the renowned Tang dynasty monk who traveled to India to bring Buddhist scriptures back to China. It serves as a cultural and religious site, highlighting the historical impact of Xuanzang on Chinese Buddhism and international cultural exchange.

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

The memorial hall is located in Tongchuan, Shaanxi. It is accessible by local buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services, and walking is convenient from nearby hotels or city center areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekday mornings are the best time to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter visit.

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

Entrance is generally free. For special exhibitions or events, tickets may be required and can be purchased onsite or via the official website.

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

Booking in advance is recommended for special events or group tours, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 1–2 hours to visit all exhibits, attend programs, and explore the surrounding areas.

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

• Main exhibition halls showcasing Xuanzang’s life and travels
• Buddhist artifacts and scriptures
• Memorial statues and garden areas
• Special exhibition or event halls

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

Guided tours are usually offered in Chinese. Private guides may be arranged for groups. Audio guides are typically not available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Entrance and memorial statues of Xuanzang
• Main exhibition halls with significant artifacts
• Outdoor gardens and courtyards surrounding the hall

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance hall with historical displays, proceed through the main exhibition halls, visit the garden and outdoor memorials, and conclude with any temporary exhibitions or souvenir areas.

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

Night visits are generally not available. Special tours may be arranged for cultural or educational groups during daytime hours.

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

Less crowded on weekday mornings. Weekends and public holidays may attract more visitors, especially students and tourists.

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

Facilities include restrooms, benches, a small café or snack area, and a gift shop selling books, souvenirs, and religious items.

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

The hall is generally accessible with ramps and seating areas. Elderly visitors, children, and disabled visitors can comfortably explore the main areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash and mobile payments are accepted for any purchases, donations, or special events.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small cafés and local restaurants nearby offer snacks, tea, and traditional Shaanxi dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available. Vegan and halal options may require inquiry at local restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses in Tongchuan city center provide convenient access to the memorial hall.

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

• Tongchuan Museum
• Shennong Ecological Cherry Orchard
• Local temples and cultural parks

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell religious items, books about Xuanzang, calligraphy, and small Buddhist artifacts.

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

Taxis, ride-hailing services, and local buses are convenient for traveling to other attractions or returning to hotels.