Xiezhou Guandi Temple

Introducing Jiezhou Guandi Temple

The Xiezhou Guandi Temple is the ancestor of martial temples. It is located in Xiguan, Xiezhou Town, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province. It was founded in the Sui Dynasty. The Xiezhou Guandi Temple is the earliest, largest, highest-structured and most complete Guandi temple and palace-style Taoist building complex in my country. It is known as the "ancestor of Guandi temples" and the "crown of martial temples."

Highlights: Hanging in the temple are plaques written by Emperor Kangxi, "Yi Bing Qian Kun", Emperor Qianlong, "Shen Yong", Emperor Xianfeng, "Wan Shi Ren Ji", and Empress Dowager Cixi, "Wei Ling Zhen Die". The representative building is the "Spring and Autumn Tower".

In Guan Yu’s hometown, people pay homage to the Martial Saint Guan Yu and visit the Guandi Ancestral Temple.

This is the earliest, largest and most complete Guandi Temple in China.

Admire the plaques hanging in the temple, which were written and approved by the three emperors Kangxi, Qianlong and Xianfeng.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate

Best time to travel: May to October

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended places to visit: Jieyi Garden, Chunqiu Tower, Chongning Hall, Duanmen, and Zhimen

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

¥70 (peak season); ¥42 (off-season)

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00 (peak season); 09:00-17:00 (off-season)

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Most Popular FAQs for Xiezhou Guandi Temple

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

Xiezhou Guandi Temple is a historic religious site dedicated to Guan Yu, a famous general from the Three Kingdoms era. It serves as an important cultural and religious center in Shanxi, reflecting traditional Chinese architecture, history, and local worship practices.

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

Located in Xiezhou Town, Yuncheng, Shanxi Province. Visitors can reach the temple by taxi or private car from Yuncheng city. Local buses to Xiezhou town are available, followed by a short walk to the temple entrance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable weather and pleasant scenery.

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

Entrance fee is around ¥15–¥25. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance; online ticketing is limited.

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

Advance booking is not mandatory, but it is recommended during festivals or public holidays to avoid crowds.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 1–2 hours to explore the temple halls, courtyards, and surrounding areas.

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

• Main Guandi Hall housing statues of Guan Yu.
• Temple courtyards with traditional Shanxi architectural features.
• Decorative carvings and ancient inscriptions.
• Pavilions and smaller shrines within the temple complex.

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

Guided tours in Mandarin may be available. Audio guides in other languages are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Front of the main hall for a full view of the temple façade.
• Temple courtyards for capturing architectural symmetry and decorations.
• Close-ups of Guan Yu statues and detailed carvings.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance, visit the main hall, explore the side pavilions and shrines, then walk through the courtyards to complete the circuit.

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

Night visits and light shows are generally not offered. Special tours may occur during local festivals.

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

Weekdays are less crowded, while weekends and public holidays attract more visitors, especially during festival times.

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

• Public restrooms at the entrance and within the temple grounds.
• Benches and shaded areas for resting.
• Small local snack vendors or kiosks nearby.
• Limited souvenir stalls near the entrance.

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

Accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may have steps or uneven surfaces. Wheelchair access may be limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants nearby serve Shanxi specialties such as noodles, dumplings, and regional snacks. Cafes are limited.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local eateries. Halal options may require traveling to nearby towns.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses and mid-range hotels are available in Xiezhou town, within a short drive of the temple.

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

• Nearby ancient villages and local temples.
• Yuncheng city landmarks.
• Shanxi countryside and scenic areas for a half-day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell small religious items, postcards, and miniature temple models.

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

• Taxi or private car to nearby towns or Yuncheng city.
• Local buses connecting to surrounding attractions.
• Rideshare services for flexible onward travel.