Shuimu Mountain

Introducing Shuimu Mountain

Xiangyun Shuimu Mountain, located southwest of Xiangyun County in Dali Prefecture, is one of China's earliest Buddhist sacred sites. It is also the sanctuary of the ninth patriarch of the Chinese Zen school of Buddhism, the world's largest ancestral stupa, the site of the excavation and burial of Buddhist relics, and the site of royal temples from the Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms. The mountain is lush with forests, offering beautiful scenery and numerous temples.

For over a thousand years since the Tang Dynasty, Shuimu Mountain has undergone a series of construction, with temples and nunneries dotting the mountain. Baohua Temple, Shuimu Temple, Yuhuang Pavilion, and Guanyin Pavilion, among others, stand majestically and magnificently in their diverse locations. The temples, with their unique carved beams and painted rafters, showcase the remarkable architectural talent of ancient working people. Today, Shuimu Mountain still retains three temples: Shuimu Temple, Puxian Temple, and Baohua Temple, commonly known locally as Lower Temple, Middle Temple, and Upper Temple.

Lower Temple of Shuimu Temple, rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty, consists of the mountain gate, pagoda courtyard, front courtyard, north and south side halls, and the main hall. On the north and south sides are monks' quarters, an incense cabinet, a ministry hall, a dining hall, a tea room, and a Yunhui Hall. Middle Temple, rebuilt in 1992 with private donations, is a tranquil and ancient temple, with the Thousand-Armed Guanyin enshrined in its main hall. Upper Temple is the largest temple on the mountain. Its main hall, the Jade Buddha Hall, houses three Burmese jade Buddhas and is a famous sight on Shuimu Mountain. In the southwest corner of Baohua Temple stands a 1,000-year-old Tang Dynasty Lion's Head Camellia. Every winter and spring, the camellia blooms, a scene evoked by the poem, "Ten thousand blossoms on the treetops devour fire, the remaining snow burns half the sky red."

Climate and best time to travel

Low-latitude plateau monsoon climate; Shuimu Mountain is one of the earliest Buddhist holy sites founded in Yunnan. Throughout the ages, scholars and poets have chosen it to climb, and visitors are endless, making it a great tourist destination suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Pagoda Courtyard;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Shuimu Mountain

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

Shuimu Mountain is known for its natural beauty and is considered a peaceful retreat in Dali. It holds significance for locals as a sacred site, offering a place of reflection and connection with nature.

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

Shuimu Mountain is located near Dali city, Yunnan. Visitors can reach it by taxi, private car, or tour group. Public transport may not be readily available, so taxis or rental cars are recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The mountain is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the views are clearer.

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

The entrance fee is around 30-40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local online platforms.

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

Advance booking is not necessary, but during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to book tickets a day or two ahead to avoid long waits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2-3 hours should be sufficient for a leisurely hike and exploration of the mountain. If you want to take your time for photography and enjoy the scenery, you may want to allocate more time.

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

The panoramic views from the summit, the serene walking paths through the forested areas, and the peaceful temples along the way are the main highlights.

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

Guided tours are available, with Mandarin-speaking guides. English-speaking guides may be available during peak seasons, but it's best to confirm in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The summit of the mountain offers the best views of the surrounding landscape, and there are several scenic spots along the hiking trail for excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance, take the main hiking trail to the summit, and enjoy the surrounding nature. Pause at the various scenic spots along the way for photos and rest. You can return by the same trail or explore nearby areas if you have more time.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available, but the serene atmosphere of the mountain makes it a beautiful place for sunset viewing if you arrive in the late afternoon.

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

The mountain is typically less crowded on weekdays and during the off-season. Early mornings are the best time to avoid crowds, especially during weekends or public holidays.

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

The mountain has basic facilities including toilets, water stations, rest areas, and small local shops near the entrance. There are no large restaurants or food courts on the mountain itself.

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

The main trail is suitable for children and elderly visitors, though some of the steeper parts may be challenging. It's advisable for disabled visitors to check the accessibility in advance as the terrain may be uneven in certain areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted. Cash is also welcome, but it's recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local cafes and eateries near the entrance of the mountain. For more dining options, Dali city offers a wide variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants in Dali city. Halal food options are less common but can be found in some of the city's larger restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels in Dali city, located around 20-30 minutes from Shuimu Mountain. Options range from budget to mid-range accommodations.

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

Nearby attractions include Dali Old Town, Erhai Lake, and the Three Pagodas. These can be easily combined into a day trip along with a visit to Shuimu Mountain.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the entrance of the mountain selling local handicrafts, Yunnan tea, and traditional items such as scarves and jewelry.

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

The best options are to take a taxi or rent a car to continue the trip to nearby attractions like Erhai Lake or Dali Old Town. Public transport options are available but less convenient.