Huiming Temple

Introducing Huiming Temple

Huiming Temple is located at the eastern foot of Zhangguanzhang Village, Huiming Village Committee, Miaojie Township, north of Weishan County. It is a famous Buddhist temple and tourist destination. It was built in the 24th year of Wanli in the Ming Dynasty. It has well preserved the magnificent ancient buildings and palaces from more than 400 years ago. Many tourists and Buddhist believers from inside and outside the province often gather here to travel and study Buddhism.

Huiming Temple is backed by Fuhu Mountain in the east, overlooks Weibao Mountain in the south, Longyu Mountain in the west and Diancang Mountain in the north. It is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Beiqiao River in the south flows all year round. From the hexagonal building in the temple, you can overlook the Weishan Basin, which is surrounded by Guajiang River, clear water and long rivers, fertile soil, lush ancient trees and scattered villages.

Huiming Temple comprises the Mountain Gate, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of Tathagata, the Hall of Arhats, and the Hall of Guanyin. The temple boasts a diverse array of pavilions and an intricate layout, encompassing numerous courtyards. Each courtyard comprises a front hall, two side chambers, a main hall, and a lattice-shaped pavilion. The main hall, with its majestic architecture and richly painted patterns, features carved dragons and painted pillars, a hallmark of Buddhist temples. Within the hall, the deities are majestic, and the clay sculptures are exquisitely lifelike. The rounded and plump figures, flowing lines, and vibrantly painted colors reflect the exceptional artistry of the folk artists. The vivid white marble Buddha statues, with their exceptional craftsmanship, add a touch of grandeur and dignity to the temple, creating a sense of transcendence and refreshment.

Since the temple was founded, it has been presided over by monks for generations, resulting in a lush garden and a clean and tidy environment. Incense smoke curls through the temple, and during religious festivals such as the "Kaiguang" ceremony, the temple is visited by a constant stream of believers.

Climate and best time to travel

The northern subtropical plateau monsoon climate; Huiming Temple has unique temple architecture, with flying eaves, carved beams and painted pillars, which are lifelike and suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Heavenly King Hall, Tathagata Hall, Arhat Hall, Guanyin Hall, etc.

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open at dawn and closed at dusk every day

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Most Popular FAQs for Huiming Temple

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

Huiming Temple, also known as Huiming Si, is an important Buddhist site located in Dali, Yunnan. The temple has a history of over a thousand years and is significant for its role in spreading Buddhist teachings in the region. It is dedicated to the Buddhist teachings of wisdom, compassion, and meditation, with many visitors coming for spiritual solace and reflection.

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

Huiming Temple is located in Dali, Yunnan Province, near the foot of Cangshan Mountain. It is accessible by taxi from Dali Old Town, which is about a 10-15 minute drive. Public buses may also be available, but taxis are the most convenient option for most visitors. Walking is possible if you are staying nearby, but the temple is on a hillside.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. The temple is especially tranquil during the off-season (fall and spring).

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

The entrance fee for Huiming Temple is typically around 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and no prior booking is required. It’s recommended to bring cash as mobile payment options may not always be available.

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

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Huiming Temple. Tickets are available on-site, and booking in advance is not necessary. However, if visiting during peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to arrive early to avoid queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Huiming Temple generally takes around 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the temple grounds, taking in the views, and participating in any spiritual practices.

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

• The main hall of the temple, where large Buddha statues and intricate carvings can be found.
• The peaceful gardens surrounding the temple, ideal for quiet contemplation and walking.
• The meditation rooms, which are used for spiritual practices and offer a tranquil atmosphere.

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

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides are limited. It’s recommended to check in advance if an English-speaking guide is available. Audio guides may not be provided, so it’s best to visit with some prior knowledge or with a local guide if you need more context.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The temple’s main hall offers beautiful shots of the surrounding mountain range and valley.
• From the temple grounds, you can capture the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere of the area, with Cangshan Mountain in the background.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Begin your visit by entering the temple through the main gate, explore the main hall and its statues, and then proceed to the meditation rooms. Take time to walk around the garden and enjoy the surrounding views. If time allows, spend a few moments in quiet reflection in one of the serene areas.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Huiming Temple. It is primarily a daytime attraction. However, during specific Buddhist festivals, there may be special ceremonies or events, which would be a unique time to visit.

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

Huiming Temple can get busy during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon. Visiting during the off-peak season (autumn or spring) also helps avoid the crowds.

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

The temple has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no large restaurants inside, but there are small stalls selling snacks and drinks near the entrance. It’s best to bring water with you, especially if you plan to hike up to the temple from the base.

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

The temple is located on a hillside, so some areas may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to stairs and uneven terrain. However, there are paths that are easier to walk for children and elderly visitors. It is recommended to inquire about specific accessibility options at the entrance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted at Huiming Temple, and mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it’s best to have some cash on hand for entrance fees or purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Inside the temple, there are only small snack stalls offering light refreshments. For full meals, head to nearby Dali Old Town, which has many local restaurants serving traditional Yunnan cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Dali Old Town, where many restaurants offer plant-based dishes. Halal food is also available at select restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several guesthouses and hotels in Dali Old Town, just a short drive from Huiming Temple.
• Luxury resorts and boutique hotels near Erhai Lake provide beautiful views and are within a short distance from the temple.

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

• Dali Old Town, known for its ancient architecture, vibrant markets, and lively atmosphere.
• Erhai Lake, where you can enjoy boat rides and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Cangshan Mountain, offering hiking trails and a panoramic view of Dali and the lake.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near Huiming Temple, offering religious items like Buddhist statues, incense, and prayer beads. In Dali Old Town, you can find a variety of local handicrafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

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

• Taxis or private cars are ideal for continuing your trip to other attractions or nearby areas.
• Public buses and organized tours can also be an option for visiting other places in Dali.