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The Jiaye Hall, also known as the Jiasha Hall, is located east of Tianzhu Peak halfway up Jiuzu Mountain. Legend has it that the founder of Jiuzu Mountain, the Venerable Jiaye, spent 500 years in meditation on a large stone plate within the hall, guarding his robes. For this reason, the Jiaye Hall holds a pivotal position among the numerous temples on Jiuzu Mountain, earning it the reputation of "the first temple on the mountain" and "the ancestral temple of all temples on the mountain."
The Sutra Library within the hall houses a rich collection of Buddhist scriptures. In front of the hall stands an 8.6-meter-tall Thousand Buddha Pagoda, adorned with gold and copper. In 1691, the 30th year of the reign of Emperor Kangxi, a fire destroyed both the pagoda and the building. The following year, monk Huiwen rebuilt it, though its scale was significantly smaller. After liberation, the People's Government allocated funds for repairs to the Kāśyapa Hall in 1952 and 1963, but it was again damaged during the Cultural Revolution. The Kāśyapa Hall that visitors see today was newly constructed on the original site between 1992 and 1994. This reconstruction was initiated by Abbot Kuanlin of Wenshu Monastery in Chengdu, Sichuan, and overseen by his senior disciple, Master Hongdao.
Low-latitude plateau monsoon climate; the climate in the mountains is suitable and the environment is beautiful, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
60 yuan/person (included in the ticket for Jizu Mountain Scenic Area)
08:00-18:00
Kasyapa Hall is an important Buddhist site in the Dali region, named after Kasyapa Bodhisattva. It holds historical and spiritual significance as a place of worship and reflection, attracting pilgrims and visitors seeking peace and spiritual enlightenment.
Kasyapa Hall is located in Dali, Yunnan, in the region’s serene countryside. It is best accessed by taxi or private transportation, as public transport options are limited. The site is around 30 minutes from Dali Ancient Town by car.
The hall is open year-round, with no specific opening hours. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday crowds and to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather.
There is no formal entrance fee for visiting Kasyapa Hall, but small donations are encouraged. Tickets for specific events or guided tours may be available for purchase at the site, usually in person.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general visits. However, if you plan to attend a special event or ceremony, it is recommended to book ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A typical visit to Kasyapa Hall will take about 1 to 2 hours, allowing time to explore the hall, enjoy the surroundings, and reflect in the peaceful atmosphere.
Guided tours are available, typically in Chinese, with some options in English for tourists. Audio guides may be available in Chinese at certain times, but it is advisable to check in advance.
Start by entering the main hall to observe the artwork and statues, then explore the surrounding gardens. End your visit by relaxing in the peaceful natural surroundings before departing.
There are no night visits or light shows at Kasyapa Hall. The best experience is during daylight hours, when the natural light enhances the beauty of the hall and its surroundings.
Kasyapa Hall is relatively quiet, especially compared to other tourist attractions. The least crowded times are on weekdays or during early mornings and late afternoons, particularly outside of major holidays.
Basic facilities such as toilets and resting areas are available at the site. There are no major food outlets, but small tea houses or local vendors may offer refreshments nearby.
Kasyapa Hall is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though there are some steps and uneven pathways. Disabled visitors may face challenges, so it’s recommended to check with the local authorities for specific accessibility information.
Cash is commonly used for donations, although mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also accepted at some locations, including for purchases in local shops or vendors.
Vegetarian food is widely available in the local restaurants, with many options based on tofu, vegetables, and grains. Halal food options may be limited, but some restaurants in Dali Ancient Town might provide such dishes.
Yes, there are local souvenir shops around Dali Ancient Town and near the hall, offering items such as traditional crafts, Yunnan tea, ethnic jewelry, and hand-carved wooden artifacts.
