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Guajia Temple, located near the Haihe River on the Middle Ring Road in Hexi District, Tianjin, was originally named Qingguo Temple. Legend has it that Emperor Taizong of Tang, after his victory in the Liao Dynasty, stationed his troops at the temple, hence the name Guajia Temple. Throughout history, scholars, civil officials, and military commanders have braved the hardships of time to visit the temple and pay their respects. In the 28th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty, guerrilla general Zhang Liangxiang, on his way east, was impressed by the temple's reputation and passed by. He sighed and said, "I will also station my troops here upon my return from victory."
A plaque inscribed in the temple's main hall reads "Cihang Pudu." To the left is the Hall of Five Hundred Arhats. Guajia Temple is renowned throughout Tianjin for its vibrant incense-filled streets during festivals. Every year on the 19th day of the second lunar month, as well as on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month, the temple's gates are wide open, and devout believers from all over flock to Guajia Temple to burn incense, kowtow, and enjoy the flower fair.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate; Guajia Temple is a Zen temple with a long history, with strong incense, suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
5 yuan/person
9:00-16:30
Guajia Zen Temple is an important Buddhist site in Tianjin. Known for its deep spiritual significance, the temple has been a center for meditation and Buddhist teachings. It is part of the rich religious history of the region and attracts visitors seeking both cultural enrichment and inner peace.
Guajia Zen Temple is located in the outskirts of Tianjin, easily accessible by taxi or private vehicle. Public buses also pass through the nearby areas. The nearest metro station is a short taxi ride away, and the temple is within walking distance from the nearest bus stop.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid the crowds, as weekends can be busier due to local visitors.
The entrance fee is typically ¥30. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance on the day of your visit. It’s not necessary to buy tickets in advance, but check for any special events that may require reservations.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but during major holidays or special Buddhist festivals, it is advisable to reserve your tickets a few days ahead to avoid long queues.
To fully explore the temple, including the main hall, surrounding gardens, and any exhibitions or ceremonies, you will need approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Guided tours in Mandarin are available, and they provide a detailed overview of the temple’s history and significance. Audio guides in English are also available for a self-guided experience.
The best photography spots are around the main hall and within the temple’s gardens, where you can capture the serene surroundings and traditional architecture. The temple’s rooftop also offers panoramic views of the area.
Start by visiting the main hall, then explore the surrounding prayer halls and gardens. Spend time in the gardens for a peaceful experience, and if there are any ongoing Buddhist ceremonies, consider observing them. End your visit with a walk around the temple grounds for photography opportunities.
Night visits are not typically available. However, during special Buddhist festivals, the temple may host evening ceremonies or events, so check ahead for any special programming.
The temple can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the early mornings before 10:00 AM.
The temple is mostly accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with some ramps and wide paths. However, some parts of the temple, especially the gardens, may have uneven ground, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues.
Mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) and credit cards are widely accepted for ticket purchases and in the souvenir shops. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.
There are no restaurants inside the temple, but you can find small local eateries around the area serving traditional Chinese dishes. There are also tea houses nearby where you can relax and enjoy Chinese tea.
Yes, vegetarian options are available in the local eateries nearby, as Buddhist cuisine is often vegetarian. Vegan and halal options may also be available, but it’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling Buddhist relics, statues, prayer beads, and incense. Traditional Chinese handicrafts are also popular souvenirs.
The best way to continue your trip is by taxi or ride-sharing apps. You can also take public transportation, with buses and metro stations nearby for easy access to other parts of Tianjin.
