Kunming Baozhu Temple

Introducing Kunming Baozhu Temple

Baozhu Temple, located in Majie Town, Xishan District, Kunming, was founded in 1321 during the Yuan Dynasty's Zhizhi reign. It was partially destroyed by fire during the Ming Dynasty's Zhengde reign (1506-1521). Local residents donated funds for its restoration in 1612, the first year of the Ming Dynasty's Tianqi reign (1621). It was renovated again in 1694, the 33rd year of the Qing Dynasty's Kangxi reign, by Governor-General Wang Jiwen. The temple originally houses inscriptions such as "Records of the Reconstruction of Baozhu Mountain Nengren Temple" by Ming Imperial Envoy Fu Zonglong and "Records of the Reconstruction of Baozhu Mountain Nengren Temple" by Governor-General Wang Jiwen during the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty. Poets throughout history have dedicated numerous poems to Baozhu Temple.

The world has changed dramatically, and time has passed. The once cascading Baozhu Waterfall, which "cascaded down from the rock layers, spraying flowers and foam like pearls," is now elusive. Fortunately, the green mountains and temples remain, making Baozhu Temple a scenic spot for a panoramic view. The main gate of Baozhu Temple is a three-hole archway, facing south. Entering the gate, in front of the Heavenly King Hall, is an open platform. To the south of the platform stands a screen wall depicting the "Brahma Sound Sea Tide," and beyond it stands a nine-story, hexagonal, white glazed Thousand Buddha Pagoda. A stone railing surrounds the north side of the platform.

The Heavenly King Hall faces west and east, and features clay sculptures of the Thousand-Armed Guanyin, the Four Heavenly Kings, and Skanda. Exiting the Heavenly King Hall, facing the Skanda statue, are two stone steps leading north and south. A stone stele with a Maitreya Buddha statue is inlaid on the center wall of the platform. Climbing the stone steps, in front of the Main Hall is an octagonal pond with rockery. The temple's flower beds are delicately decorated with pergolas. Opposite the Heavenly King Hall on the upper platform is the Main Hall, housing statues of the Three Buddhas: Sakyamuni, Medicine Buddha, and Amitabha, along with statues of Kasyapa and Ananda.

On either side of the main hall are statues of Guanyin, Manjusri, Samantabhadra, and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Flanking the main hall are the Three Saints Hall to the south and the Sutra Hall to the north. Wings and side chambers house the God of Wealth Hall, a guest hall, a kitchen, and a cloud room. The temple is compactly built. Looking out from the railing, one can see green grass, blue sky, drifting white clouds, the shimmering grassy sea of ​​Dianchi Lake, and the shadowy scenery of the Spring City.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical semi-humid monsoon climate; Baozhu Temple is a temple with great cultural and artistic value, with strong incense, suitable for travel in all 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 Kunming Baozhu Temple

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

Kunming Baozhu Temple is a historic Buddhist temple with a long-standing cultural and religious significance in Yunnan. It is known for its role in preserving Buddhist traditions and its unique architectural style reflecting local craftsmanship.

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

Located in Kunming city, the temple is accessible by taxi, bus routes serving central Kunming, and nearby walking paths from local neighborhoods.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, typically from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Early morning visits are recommended for a quiet experience and observing rituals.

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

Entrance is usually free, but some special halls or exhibitions may require a small fee purchased onsite.

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

Booking is not required for general visits. Advance booking may be needed for group tours or special ceremonies.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 hours is sufficient to explore the temple, its halls, and gardens.

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

• Main Buddha Hall
• Pagodas and bell towers
• Temple courtyards and gardens
• Stone carvings and murals

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

Guided tours may be available on request, generally in Chinese; English guides are limited. Audio guides are uncommon.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Temple main gate and pagoda rooftops
• Courtyards with Buddha statues
• Temple gardens and lotus ponds

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit the central halls, explore side halls and pagodas, then finish with the gardens and courtyards for a full experience.

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

Night visits are generally not available. Special ceremonies or group tours may be arranged by appointment.

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

Least crowded times are weekday mornings. Weekends and festival days are busier, especially during Buddhist holidays.

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

Basic facilities include restrooms, water fountains, seating areas, and small souvenir stalls.

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

Main areas are accessible, though some steps or uneven paths may require assistance. Suitable for elderly and children with care.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is usually sufficient for donations or small purchases; mobile payments are increasingly accepted at on-site stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Several local eateries and small cafes are nearby, serving traditional Yunnan cuisine and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available near the temple; vegan and halal options are limited and may require advance checking.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several mid-range hotels and guesthouses are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the temple.

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

• Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park)
• Yunnan Provincial Museum
• Kunming Flower and Bird Market

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell Buddhist-themed items, postcards, incense, and small statues of deities.

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

Taxi, ride-hailing apps, or local buses provide convenient transport to other Kunming attractions or downtown areas.