Ci'en Temple

Introducing Ci'en Temple

Ci'en Temple is located at No. 12, Ci'en Temple Lane, Danan Street, Shenhe District, Shenyang City, Liaoning Province.

It was first built in the Tang Dynasty and was expanded and rebuilt during the Shunzhi and Daoguang periods of the Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China. It is the largest existing Buddhist temple in Shenyang.

Ci'en Temple is listed as a provincial cultural relic protection unit and is now the seat of the Shenyang Buddhist Association.

Ci'en Temple faces east and sits west, covering an area of ​​approximately 120 million square meters. The front gate is located inside, with bell and drum towers. To the west, the temple's buildings are divided into three sections.

At the front of the middle road is the Heavenly King Hall, which is three bays wide, with painted purlins and vermilion ground. Statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, Maitreya and Skanda are enshrined in the hall.

To the west are the Main Hall, the Bhikkhu Altar, and the Sutra Library. The Pagoda of Master Shengren: A monk who had a significant influence on Ci'en Temple. His Dharma name was Han Ke, also known as Shengren. He was the son of Han Rizun, the Minister of Rites of the Ming Dynasty. At the age of 29, he became a monk at Luofu Mountain. When the Qing army marched south, he witnessed the suffering of the people and the defection of some Ming officials. He wrote a book exposing current events, "Records of the Second Bian," which was discovered by the Qing army. He was brought to the capital for trial and later exiled to Ci'en Temple in Shengjing.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

long time

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Ci'en Temple

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

Ci'en Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Shenyang, Liaoning. It holds cultural and religious significance as a center of Buddhist practice and traditional architecture, reflecting the region’s spiritual heritage.

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

The temple is located in Shenyang city, accessible via local bus routes and taxi. Visitors can also reach it by metro to nearby stations and then walk a short distance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Ci'en Temple is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Early mornings or late afternoons provide a quieter experience and soft lighting for photography.

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

Entrance is usually free, but donations are welcome to support temple maintenance. Some special exhibitions may require a nominal fee, payable onsite.

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

Advance booking is generally not required, except for group visits or special events.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

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

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

• Main hall with large Buddha statues
• Temple pagodas and side halls
• Peaceful courtyards and landscaped gardens
• Historical inscriptions and architectural details

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

Guided tours may be offered in Chinese; English-speaking guides are limited. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Front entrance and main gate of the temple
• Main hall interior with Buddha statues
• Temple courtyards and gardens
• Temple pagodas for architectural shots

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter through the main gate, explore the main hall, visit side halls and pagodas, then walk through the gardens and courtyards for a full experience.

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

Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special religious ceremonies or cultural events may occasionally occur.

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

Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded. Weekends and holidays can be busier, especially during festivals.

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

• Public toilets near the entrance
• Benches and rest areas in courtyards
• Small shops or vendors offering snacks and religious souvenirs

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

Main areas are accessible, though some steps and uneven paths may challenge visitors with mobility issues. Children can enjoy the open spaces safely.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Donations or purchases at small shops can be made with cash. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants and cafes are located nearby, offering traditional Liaoning cuisine and casual dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is commonly available. Halal options may be limited, but some local eateries provide them.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses are within a short distance, particularly in central Shenyang districts.

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

• Shenyang Imperial Palace (Mukden Palace)
• Beiling Park and Zhaoling Tomb
• Liaobin Ancient City and Liaobin Tower
• Zhongjie Pedestrian Street

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops nearby sell postcards, Buddhist-themed items, small handicrafts, and religious artifacts.

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

• Taxi or ride-hailing services for nearby attractions
• Local buses to other parts of Shenyang
• Metro for reaching other central city landmarks