Underground Palace of the Ten Thousand Buddha Golden Pagoda

Introducing the Underground Palace of the Ten Thousand Buddha Golden Pagoda

The Underground Palace of the Ten Thousand Buddhas Golden Pagoda is located in the Oriental Cultural Park in Xiaoshan, Hangzhou. It was built in the style of the Thai Royal Palace. 9,999 golden Buddha statues are enshrined inside and outside the pagoda. The shape of the building itself is exactly that of a Buddha statue, so it is called the " Underground Palace of the Ten Thousand Buddhas Golden Pagoda " .

The underground palace is paved with golden bricks and is magnificent. The niches display many national first-class Buddhist cultural relics, relics of eminent monks, Buddhist scriptures, a 3.5- meter -long ivory miniature carving with "Along the River During the Qingming Festival", five hundred arhats and 80,000 words of scriptures; there is also the "Two Thousand Years of Chinese Buddhism" ( out of print ) and many national first-class Buddhist cultural relics on display.

Enshrined in the underground palace square is a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, donated by the Thai Buddhist community. It is the largest reclining jade Buddha statue in China. Carved from a single block of Burmese jade, the statue is inlaid with gemstones, pearls, and agate. It depicts Sakyamuni Buddha in his " auspicious reclining " position , also known as the " Nirvana Chime Statue . "

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the Oriental Culture Park ticket

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Underground Palace of the Ten Thousand Buddha Golden Pagoda

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

The Underground Palace of the Ten Thousand Buddha Golden Pagoda in Hangzhou is a significant cultural and historical site. It is known for its vast underground chambers that house thousands of Buddha statues and Buddhist relics. The site represents the rich Buddhist heritage of the region and attracts visitors interested in history, art, and spirituality.

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

The Underground Palace is located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It can be accessed by taking the metro to a nearby station and then walking or taking a taxi to the site. Public buses also service the area, making it easy to reach from different parts of the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning on weekdays. Weekends and public holidays tend to be more crowded.

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

The entrance fee is typically ¥50-¥80. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through platforms like WeChat or Alipay for convenience.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but booking a day or two ahead is recommended during peak tourist seasons or for large groups to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Underground Palace and its surroundings, allow about 2-3 hours. This will give you time to appreciate the intricate details of the site and participate in any guided activities or meditation sessions.

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

• The underground chambers filled with the Ten Thousand Buddha statues.
• The murals and carvings that tell the story of Buddhist teachings.
• The Golden Pagoda that stands tall above the site, offering a view of the surrounding area.

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

Guided tours are available in both Mandarin and English. Audio guides are also offered in multiple languages, including Mandarin and English, to enhance the visitor experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the entrance of the underground chambers, where the rows of Buddha statues create a striking visual. The Golden Pagoda itself also provides a scenic view of the surrounding landscape and makes for a great photo opportunity.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the Golden Pagoda and the surrounding temples. Then, head down into the underground chambers to see the thousands of Buddha statues and the intricate carvings. Conclude your visit by relaxing at one of the nearby rest areas or meditation spots.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically offered. However, the site is serene and peaceful, making it a perfect place for a contemplative visit during the day.

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

The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early morning hours when it opens.

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

Facilities include clean toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are small shops near the entrance where you can buy souvenirs and snacks, and some local vendors offer refreshments outside the attraction.

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

The site is mostly accessible, with paved paths leading to the underground chambers. However, the stairs to the upper levels of the pagoda may not be suitable for visitors with limited mobility. It is best to check with the staff for special assistance if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted, but it is recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are small snack kiosks and cafes near the entrance offering light refreshments.
• For a more substantial meal, nearby restaurants in Hangzhou offer a range of Chinese dishes, including vegetarian options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available at the local restaurants nearby, and some cafes offer plant-based snacks. Halal food options are limited but can be found in other parts of Hangzhou.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels near the attraction in Hangzhou, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations.
• Popular choices include hotels in West Lake area, which is not too far from the Underground Palace.

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

• West Lake, one of Hangzhou's most famous tourist attractions, is nearby and can easily be combined in a day trip.
• The Lingyin Temple, another significant Buddhist site, is also within a short distance.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling traditional Chinese crafts, Buddhist statues, and calligraphy. The most popular items are small Buddha figurines and incense burners.

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

After visiting, taxis or buses are the best options for continuing your trip. The metro station is also within reach for those looking to explore other parts of Hangzhou.