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At Qianlong Temple, visitors can explore the ancient architecture, admire the intricate carvings and statues, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a great place for reflection, photography, and learning about the history of the region. Don’t miss the temple's serene courtyards and the surrounding scenic views of Huayin.
Qianlong Temple is located in the Shaohua Mountain Scenic Area in Weinan City, Shaanxi Province. It was built in the early Eastern Han Dynasty because Emperor Guangwu of the Eastern Han Dynasty, Liu Xiu, once hid here. Later, his son, Emperor Ming of the Eastern Han Dynasty, Liu Zhuang, built a temple to repay his father's kindness in hiding here. It was named "Qianlong Temple" and is one of the earliest Buddhist temples in my country.
Qianlong Temple consists of a front hall, a middle hall, and the Main Hall. In front of the Main Hall stands a thousand-year-old cypress, nicknamed "Cypress Embracing the Locust Tree" because of the locust tree nestled between them. The temple still houses eight stone tablets dating from the fourth year of the Chenghua reign of the Ming Dynasty to the fourth year of the Xianfeng reign of the Qing Dynasty.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate offers four distinct seasons and abundant sunshine, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Qianlong Temple consists of a front hall, a middle hall, and the Main Hall. In front of the Main Hall stands a thousand-year-old cypress tree, approximately 3.7 meters in girth, 23 meters tall, and with a canopy of approximately 50 square meters. Growing within the cypress is a locust tree, 1.53 meters in girth, earning it the nickname "Cypress Embracing Locust." The temple still preserves eight stone tablets dating from the fourth year of the Chenghua reign of the Ming Dynasty (1468) to the fourth year of the Xianfeng reign of the Qing Dynasty, testifying to the history of Qianlong Temple's Buddhist culture.
It is recommended to play for about 3 to 4 hours.
Included in the Shaohua Mountain Scenic Area pass.
09:00~17:00.
Qianlong Temple, built during the Qing Dynasty, is an important historical and cultural site. It is named after Emperor Qianlong, who visited the area during his reign. The temple is significant for its architectural beauty and its role as a place of worship and reflection, particularly for Buddhist monks and local visitors.
Qianlong Temple is located in Huayin, Shaanxi Province. Visitors can take a taxi from Huayin city center to the temple, which is about 10 kilometers away. Public buses are also available, and walking from nearby areas can be a scenic option if you're up for it.
The temple is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings and late afternoons, especially during weekdays when it's less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee for Qianlong Temple is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the temple’s entrance. Online ticket booking is generally not required for regular visits, but it may be available for special events.
Tickets do not need to be booked in advance for regular visits. However, if visiting during peak tourist seasons or for special ceremonies, it is advisable to check for availability and book tickets in advance.
A visit to Qianlong Temple usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the grounds, taking photographs, and enjoying the tranquility of the temple.
Key highlights include the main hall with its towering Buddha statue, the peaceful courtyards, and the scenic views from the temple grounds. The intricate carvings and historical artifacts in the temple are also must-sees.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides in both Chinese and English may be available at the entrance. It’s best to inquire when you arrive.
The best viewpoints are from the elevated areas of the temple, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The main hall and courtyard also provide excellent opportunities for capturing the intricate architectural details.
Start by entering the temple through the main gate and explore the central courtyard. Visit the main hall, then take a walk around the temple’s peaceful gardens and surrounding areas. Don’t forget to stop at the elevated platforms for panoramic views of Huayin.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not available at Qianlong Temple. The best time to visit is during daylight hours to fully appreciate the temple’s architecture and the surrounding natural beauty.
The temple can get busy on weekends and during holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no restaurants or food vendors inside the temple, but there are local shops and eateries outside the temple where you can buy refreshments.
The temple grounds have some stairs and uneven terrain, making it less accessible for visitors with mobility impairments. However, it is suitable for children and elderly visitors who can walk short distances.
Cash is accepted for the entrance fee and other purchases. However, mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly accepted at the temple and nearby shops.
There are several local eateries and restaurants near the temple serving traditional Shaanxi cuisine. You can find dumplings, noodles, and other regional dishes nearby.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants, though halal food may be limited in this area.
Several hotels and guesthouses are available in Huayin, including options ranging from budget to mid-range. Popular accommodations include Huayin Hotel and local guesthouses located near the base of the mountain.
Nearby attractions include Mount Huashan, one of China’s most famous and scenic mountains. It is easy to combine a visit to Qianlong Temple with a hike or cable car ride up Huashan.
There are souvenir shops near the temple where visitors can purchase traditional Shaanxi items, such as local crafts, paintings, and postcards. Tea and other local specialties are also available.
After visiting Qianlong Temple, taxis and buses are available to continue your journey to nearby attractions like Mount Huashan. Local transportation options are readily available.
