Main Hall of Chongsheng Temple

Introducing the Great Hall of Chongsheng Temple

The Main Hall, grand and spacious, is resplendent with golden splendor. Modeled after the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City in Beijing, it features nine bays with double eaves from the Qing Dynasty and a three-tiered base. Standing 51.7 meters wide and 26 meters high, it is the largest hall in any Buddhist temple in China. The Zhang Shengwen Scroll, ingeniously carved into a 1.8-meter-high and 117-meter-long wooden scroll, is installed within the four massive 2.03-meter-high and 119-meter-long niches on the interior walls of the Main Hall, making it a unique wooden scroll in China and abroad. The "Buddha's Own Story" (the story of the Tathagata Buddha from his birth, ordination, enlightenment, founding of Buddhism, spreading of his disciples, popularization of Buddhism, reverence as the Buddha, and his passing) is depicted in 18 panels, carved into the Main Hall's 18 lattice doors.

The Mahavira Hall is typically dedicated to Sakyamuni, and since Sakyamuni's virtue title is "Great Hero," it's called the Mahavira Hall. The Mahavira Hall is the main hall of a Buddhist temple, enshrining the Buddha statue. "Great Hero" is the Buddha's virtue title. Why is it called Great Hero? It's because the Buddha possesses immense power, capable of subduing the four demons. These four demons are: first, the demon of afflictions, which is caused by greed and other afflictions that can harm the body and mind; second, the demon of the five aggregates, also known as the demon of the five aggregates, or the demon of the aggregates, which can cause all kinds of suffering; third, the demon of death, which can destroy people's desires; and fourth, the demon of the son of the Paranirmitavasavartin, or the demon of the free heaven, which is the demon king of the sixth heaven in the Desire Realm (i.e., the Paranirmitavasavartin Heaven), which can harm people's good deeds. This fourth of these is the fundamental principle of the demon, and the other three demons are all of the same kind, hence the term "demon."

Climate and best time to travel

The low-latitude plateau has a monsoon climate. The Main Hall is the highest-level building in Chongsheng Temple and is located in the center of the temple. It is also the climax area for tourists to visit and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

75 yuan/person (included in the Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas scenic area ticket)

Attraction opening hours

8:00-19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Main Hall of Chongsheng Temple

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

The Main Hall of Chongsheng Temple is part of the Chongsheng Temple complex, a historical Buddhist site in Dali. The temple was originally built during the Tang Dynasty (8th century) and has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries. It holds religious significance for Buddhists and is famous for its grand architecture, the Three Buddha statues, and its role as a center of Buddhist culture in Yunnan.

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

The Main Hall of Chongsheng Temple is located in the Chongsheng Temple complex, near the foot of Cangshan Mountain in Dali. It is best accessed by taxi or private car from Dali City. Public transportation options like buses are available, but taxis are more convenient for direct access. Walking is an option if you're nearby, but it might take some time depending on your location.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when it’s less crowded, and the weather is pleasant. Visiting during the spring or autumn months offers the most favorable climate.

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

The entrance fee for Chongsheng Temple is approximately 60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and online booking is available for convenience, especially during peak seasons. The ticket includes access to the Main Hall and the surrounding temple complex.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak seasons (summer and Chinese holidays). Booking a day or two ahead ensures availability and may save time at the entrance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the Main Hall of Chongsheng Temple and its surroundings takes about 1-2 hours. If you plan to visit other parts of the temple complex and nearby attractions, allocate around 3-4 hours in total.

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

The must-see highlights include the Main Hall itself, with its impressive Three Buddha statues, and the surrounding pagodas. The views of Cangshan Mountain from the temple are also a major highlight, providing excellent photo opportunities.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. If you prefer an English-speaking guide, it is recommended to book in advance. Audio guides in English may also be available, providing a self-guided tour of the temple’s history and significance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the Main Hall, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The pagodas also offer great perspectives of the entire temple complex. For photography, try capturing the Three Buddha statues up close or take wide-angle shots of the temple against the backdrop of Cangshan Mountain.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the entrance and explore the Main Hall with its grand Buddha statues. Afterward, walk through the temple complex, visiting the surrounding smaller halls and pagodas. If you have time, take a walk around the gardens or hike up Cangshan Mountain for a stunning view of Dali.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Main Hall of Chongsheng Temple. However, the temple is beautifully lit at night, and if you're staying nearby, you can enjoy the serene ambiance after the crowds have left.

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

The temple can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays. The least crowded times are in the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild.

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

There are basic facilities at the temple, including public toilets, rest areas, and water stations. A few small shops sell snacks and souvenirs. For a wider selection of food, you may want to visit nearby restaurants in Dali.

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

The Main Hall and the surrounding temple complex are relatively accessible, but some areas might require navigating stairs or steep paths. Elderly and disabled visitors may find it challenging to explore the entire complex, though the main areas are accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the temple for entrance fees, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Credit cards are not typically accepted at smaller facilities.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the temple that serve Yunnan cuisine. For a wider variety of dining options, consider heading to Dali Old Town, where there are more international and local restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the local eateries around Dali, particularly dishes made with fresh vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms. Halal options may be available in some restaurants in Dali, though they are less common.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses around Dali Old Town that are within a short drive from the temple. For a more luxurious stay, consider boutique hotels near the lake or in the ancient town area.

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

Nearby attractions include the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Cangshan Mountain, and Erhai Lake. These landmarks are easily combined into a day trip from the Main Hall of Chongsheng Temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops around the temple selling items like Buddhist statues, prayer beads, incense, and local handicrafts. You can also find traditional Bai ethnic textiles and pottery as souvenirs.

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

The best way to continue your trip is by taxi or private car, as they can take you to nearby attractions like Erhai Lake, Dali Old Town, or Cangshan Mountain. Public buses are available but less convenient for direct travel to other tourist spots.