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Visit the ancient temple to experience the local spirituality, explore the scenic surroundings, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. You can also take photos of the temple’s architecture and the stunning views around it.
Shangluo Dayun Temple, originally named "Xiyanyuan," is located on Jinfeng Mountain north of Shangzhou District in Shangluo City. Designated a provincial key cultural relic protection site in 1992, Dayun Temple dates back over 1,300 years and dates back to the Tang Dynasty.
Shangluo Dayun Temple is located in the middle section of Gongnong Road in Shangzhou District, Shangluo City. Originally built during the Zhenguan period of the Tang Dynasty (627-649 AD), it was dedicated to the Buddhist deity Xuanwu Emperor. To achieve her goal of becoming empress, Empress Wu Zetian, leveraging the power of religious deities, launched a massive construction program, ordering the construction of Dayun temples in various prefectures. This led to the rise of Shangzhou Dayun Temple. During the Zhizheng period of the Yuan Dynasty (1341-1368 AD), it was renamed Dayun Temple. Today, Dayun Temple covers 8,000 square meters, with its four main halls largely preserved in their original state. It is now a provincially protected key cultural relic.
Inside Dayun Temple, there are murals titled "The Five Precepts Jataka," depicting five stories about the origins of the Five Precepts (abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and drinking alcohol). Painted on the east wall of Dayun Temple's main hall, the murals are arranged in five groups, from right to left and from top to bottom.
The warm temperate semi-humid monsoon climate features four distinct seasons, with rain and heat occurring in the same season, and distinct dry and wet seasons in the summer and winter. Avoid the cold winter and travel in spring, summer, and autumn.
Along its central axis, Shangluo Dayun Temple comprises the mountain gate, front hall, middle hall, and rear hall. Its architectural style reflects the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty. The front hall features 22 brackets under its front and rear eaves, with the arch openings sealed with bricks. Forty single-line painted murals depicting Buddha statues are also featured on both the interior and exterior surfaces. The Buddha sits cross-legged on a lotus pedestal, shrouded in a halo and displaying a benevolent demeanor. The murals are remarkably well-preserved.
Arriving at this tranquil and secluded temple, ascending the stone steps, passing through the mountain gate, and entering the main hall, the red pillars and painted walls, especially the Buddha images painted between the inner brackets, are lifelike and captivating. Outside the hall, towering ancient cypresses add to the temple's tranquil elegance. The walls are inlaid with brick inscriptions inscribed with the inscription "Dayun Temple," a rich and ancient style. A stone statue from the Yuan Dynasty, depicting a woman with a high bun, a laurel crown, a golden skirt, a large scarf, and a thin belt, stands sideways, facing upward. A Buddha, holding a child, sits on a lotus throne, a flowing jade belt, and is surrounded by flowing clouds, seemingly soaring through the mist. This reflects the lofty status of Buddhism at the time and the people's devotion to it.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
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Shangluo Dayun Temple is an important Buddhist temple in Shaanxi, known for its cultural and spiritual significance. It has a long history and is a revered place for locals and pilgrims.
Shangluo Dayun Temple is located in Shangluo, Shaanxi. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transport options may be limited, so a taxi or rental car is recommended.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to visit to avoid crowds and enjoy the temple’s serene atmosphere.
The entrance fee is about 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance. No online booking is required.
No advance booking is required for Shangluo Dayun Temple. Tickets are available for purchase on-site.
It will take approximately 1 to 2 hours to explore the temple and its surroundings. If you plan to enjoy the scenic views and take photos, you may want to spend up to 3 hours.
The main highlights include the temple buildings, the tranquil courtyards, and the surrounding landscapes. The temple’s architecture and spiritual ambiance are key attractions.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may also be offered, but there may be limited options for foreign languages like English. It's best to check availability in advance.
The best photography spots are the temple’s entrance, the central courtyard, and from the surrounding hills, which offer panoramic views of the area.
Start with visiting the main temple building, then explore the surrounding courtyards. Afterward, walk around the temple grounds to enjoy the natural scenery and panoramic views from higher areas.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Shangluo Dayun Temple. The temple is best enjoyed during the day for a peaceful, spiritual experience.
The temple can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or late afternoons, especially on weekdays.
There are basic facilities including toilets and water stations. Food and rest areas are limited, but visitors can bring their own refreshments. No large shops are available at the temple.
The temple is accessible for elderly and children, though there are some steps and uneven paths. It may not be suitable for disabled visitors due to terrain challenges.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted. Cash is also widely accepted, but credit cards are not typically used in the area.
There are a few small local restaurants and snack shops nearby the temple offering local Shaanxi dishes. For more dining options, visitors can head to the city center.
Vegetarian options are available in some local eateries, especially at places offering Buddhist vegetarian food. Halal options are limited in the area.
There are budget hotels and guesthouses in Shangluo city, around a 15-minute drive from the temple. For more upscale accommodations, consider staying in the city center.
Nearby attractions include the Wangxia Scenic Area and the Shaanxi Provincial Museum. These can be easily combined in a day trip from the temple.
There are small shops near the temple selling religious items like incense, Buddha statues, and prayer beads. Local handicrafts are also available as souvenirs.
After visiting Shangluo Dayun Temple, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your trip to nearby attractions or back to Shangluo city.
