Hezhen Ancient Road Martial Arts Temple Fair

Introducing Hezhen Ancient Road Martial Arts Temple Fair

Dali's Wu Temple, also known as the Guandi Temple, was built in the 17th year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty. It is a symbol of Dali's martial arts culture and wealth. The Wu Temple Fair is the first major project in Yunnan Urban Investment's "Hezhen Ancient Road" series of projects in Dali Ancient City. The Wu Temple Fair, a restoration and reconstruction of the original Wu Temple site, is poised to become a new historical and cultural attraction in Dali.

The Martial Arts Temple Fair scenic area on the "Hezhen Ancient Road" in Dali Ancient City has been rated as a national AA-level tourist attraction and is one of the five AA scenic spots in Dali City. With the advancement of Yunnan's second tourism entrepreneurship, Dali's tourism industry is in the process of transformation and development. The emergence of the Martial Arts Temple Fair has taken the first step in the development of Dali's cultural tourism.

The Martial Arts Temple Fair, centered around Benzhu culture, boasts the world's only Benzhu Martial Temple, integrating traditional Chinese culture with the Bai ethnic group's millennia-old mystical Benzhu culture. The Fair aims to restore the temple and explore its significance, rather than simply develop it for real estate. Sixty-three statues of the most influential Bai deities, Benzhu, will be enshrined alongside a statue of Guan Gong in the main hall, welcoming pilgrims from all over. By extracting the essence of Chinese national culture and creating an innovative cultural tourism model, the Fair, with government support, has already attracted numerous renowned travel agencies. The Fair will become another cultural landmark for Dali, attracting a steady stream of visitors.

Climate and best time to travel

Low-latitude plateau monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Hezhen Ancient Road Martial Arts Temple Fair

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

The Hezhen Ancient Road Martial Arts Temple Fair is a cultural festival that celebrates the martial arts heritage of the region. The event is held at a historical site that has deep ties to ancient trade routes and martial arts practices, showcasing the local traditions, skills, and cultural richness of Yunnan's past.

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

The fair is held in the vicinity of Hezhen Ancient Road in Dali, Yunnan. Visitors can reach the location by taxi or local buses from Dali city center. Walking to the site is possible for those who enjoy exploring the surrounding landscapes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The event usually takes place annually during specific festivals, typically in the spring or fall. It opens in the morning and continues into the late afternoon, with peak performances occurring in the afternoon. The best time to visit is during the official temple fair days when martial arts demonstrations are at their height.

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

The entrance fee for the fair is generally free, though some special performances or activities may require tickets, usually priced at around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance from local tourist agencies.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not always necessary unless for special performances or VIP seating. However, during peak seasons, it’s recommended to book a few days in advance to secure a spot in the most popular events.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the Hezhen Ancient Road Martial Arts Temple Fair typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on how long visitors wish to spend watching performances and exploring local cultural displays.

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

The must-see highlights include the martial arts performances, traditional temple rituals, local crafts, and food stalls. Visitors should also explore the ancient road itself, which holds historical significance as a trade and cultural route.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be available during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides in Mandarin are also commonly offered for self-guided exploration.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the martial arts performances, especially in action. The surrounding landscapes along the ancient road also offer stunning panoramic views of the valley and mountains, perfect for capturing scenic photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by watching the martial arts performances near the temple. Then, visit the surrounding booths showcasing local crafts and food. If time allows, take a short walk along the ancient road to experience its historical significance and natural beauty.

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

Night visits or light shows are not a part of the Hezhen Ancient Road Martial Arts Temple Fair. However, evening activities may include informal performances or community gatherings. Special night tours are not typically available for this event.

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

The fair can get crowded, especially on weekends or during national holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly during the off-season months when fewer tourists attend.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, food and drink stalls, and rest areas are available at the event. There are also local shops selling souvenirs, local handicrafts, and traditional snacks from the Yunnan region.

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

The Hezhen Ancient Road Martial Arts Temple Fair can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to the uneven terrain of the ancient road. However, it is suitable for children, who can enjoy the performances and explore the food and craft stalls.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards are also widely used in the area. It's recommended to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in more remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby, visitors can find several local restaurants offering traditional Yunnanese food, such as rice noodles, hotpot, and vegetarian dishes. Small cafes also serve local teas and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most food stalls, as Yunnan cuisine offers a variety of plant-based dishes. Halal food options may be available in larger cities like Dali, though they are less common in more rural areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a range of accommodations near the Hezhen Ancient Road, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Dali city has a wide selection of hotels and hostels that are easily accessible by public transportation.

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

Nearby attractions include Dali Old Town, Erhai Lake, and Cangshan Mountain. These landmarks are easy to combine in a day trip, providing a diverse experience of culture, nature, and history.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in the area sell traditional Yunnan crafts, such as handmade jewelry, textiles, pottery, and wooden carvings. Visitors can also purchase martial arts-themed items, such as clothing and memorabilia from the temple fair.

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

After visiting the Hezhen Ancient Road, taxis and local buses are the best transportation options to continue the trip. Visitors can also rent a car or join a guided tour to explore nearby attractions like Erhai Lake or Dali Old Town.