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Tianchi Temple is located in Lixin Village, Zengxi Township, 15 kilometers southwest of Shiquan County, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province. Famous for its auspicious lotus flowers, it is one of the county's eight ancient scenic spots. According to inscriptions on the site, Tianchi Temple was first built in the first year of Shaoxi reign (1190) during the reign of Emperor Guangzong of the Southern Song Dynasty. It was destroyed during the Liberation Movement and later used as a school. Six steles dating from the Qianlong to Daoguang reigns of the Qing Dynasty have been discovered at the site, all of which represent meritorious deeds. The most valuable discovery is a stele dating from the 23rd year of the Chenghua reign of the Ming Dynasty, inscribed with a seven-character regulated verse praising the eight scenic spots of Tianchi. The poem's lofty artistic conception and well-balanced parallelism are also evident. Two ancient osmanthus trees, now flourishing, also remain on the site.
It has a warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate with distinct seasons: cold, warm, dry, and wet. Winters are cold, windy, foggy, and with little rain or snow; springs are warm, dry, windy, and changeable; summers are hot and rainy, with a prominent summer drought and frequent thunderstorms and strong winds; and autumns are cool, with a rapid drop in temperature and significant autumn rain.
It is recommended to play for one hour
Tianchi Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Ankang, Shaanxi, known for its spiritual importance and architectural heritage. It has served as a center for religious activities and cultural preservation in the region.
Located in Ankang, Shaanxi Province. Visitors can reach the temple by taxi or private car. Local buses connect nearby towns, and walking is possible from the closest drop-off points.
The temple is typically open from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for mild weather and clear skies.
Entrance fees are generally minimal or free. Tickets, if required for special events or guided tours, can be bought onsite or through local travel platforms.
Booking is generally not required. For guided tours or religious festivals, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended.
1–2 hours for the temple complex; 3–4 hours if including nearby hiking trails.
Guided tours are primarily in Chinese. Audio guides in English may be limited or unavailable.
Start at the main entrance, visit prayer halls and courtyards, follow marked trails to scenic viewpoints, and return via connecting paths.
Night visits are generally not allowed. Special tours or events may occur during festivals.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends or festival days. Early morning visits offer the quietest experience.
Main temple areas are accessible, but steep or uneven paths may be challenging. Wheelchair access is limited.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay are commonly used.
Local eateries near the temple offer traditional Shaanxi cuisine. Limited food options are available within the temple grounds.
Vegetarian dishes are generally available; halal options should be confirmed locally.
Several guesthouses and mid-range hotels are located in Ankang city within reasonable distance.
Souvenir shops sell religious items, prayer beads, local crafts, and small keepsakes related to the temple.
Taxi, ride-hailing apps, and local buses connect to Ankang city center, train stations, and other nearby attractions.
