Shisheng Temple

Introducing Shisheng Temple

Shisheng Temple is located at No. 206, Huangsi Road, Heping District, Shenyang City, Liaoning Province. Its full name is "Lotus Pure Land Shisheng Temple". Because it was built by Emperor Taizong of the Qing Dynasty, Huang Taiji, it is also called "Huang Temple".

Shisheng Temple was built in 1636 and is the earliest Lama temple in Shenyang. It is now a national 2A-level tourist attraction and a provincial cultural relic protection unit.

Shisheng Temple consists of two courtyards, surrounded by two layers of blue brick walls, and covers an area of ​​about 5,500 square meters.

The entire temple is built from south to north on a central axis. Flanking the mountain gate are the bell and drum towers. Between the Heavenly King Hall and the main hall are side halls on the east and west sides. Sutra rooms and dressing rooms flank the main hall, and the Mahakala Tower stands southwest of the main hall. Behind the Heavenly King Hall stands a pavilion, where a stone tablet in Manchu, Mongolian, Chinese, and Tibetan records the casting and relocation of the Mahakala Golden Buddha.

The main hall is the temple's main structure, a five-bay, double-eaved, hip-and-gable style building covered with yellow glazed tiles. Inside, statues of Sakyamuni, Maitreya, and Amitayus are enshrined; the Eighteen Arhats are above, and the Eight Great Bodhisattvas are below.

The Heavenly King Hall is a three-story hip-and-gable building with painted statues of the Four Heavenly Kings. The Mahakala Building is a two-story hip-and-gable wooden structure built specifically for the Mahakala Golden Buddha.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

One hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

9:00-16:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Shisheng Temple

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

Shisheng Temple is a prominent Buddhist temple in Shenyang, dating back to the early Qing Dynasty. It holds significant cultural and religious value, serving as a place of worship and pilgrimage for Buddhists. The temple’s architecture reflects the traditional Chinese style with intricate designs and carvings.

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

Shisheng Temple is located in the heart of Shenyang. It can be easily accessed by taxi or public transport. The nearest metro station is a short walk away, and buses also serve the area. Walking from the city center is possible for those who enjoy a longer stroll.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shisheng Temple is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially on weekdays when there are fewer visitors.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Currently, online ticket booking is not available.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. Tickets can be bought directly at the temple entrance on the day of your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore Shisheng Temple and its surrounding areas, 1-2 hours is typically enough. If you are interested in photography or a more detailed exploration of the temple’s history, you may need more time.

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

The must-see highlights include the main hall with its Buddha statues, the peaceful courtyards, and the temple’s gardens. The architecture and carvings on the walls are also worth admiring.

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

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin. It is recommended to inquire about this service at the entrance. Audio guides are not available at the temple.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the temple’s main courtyard, where you can capture the grandeur of the buildings. The gardens and surrounding nature also offer great spots for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main hall and Buddha statues, then proceed to explore the surrounding courtyards and gardens. Take your time in the temple’s serene spaces for reflection and photography.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available. It is recommended to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the temple’s beauty and architecture.

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

The temple is usually less crowded on weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Weekends and public holidays can be more crowded, so it’s best to visit during weekdays if you prefer a quieter experience.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets are available on-site. There are no food or drink facilities inside the temple, but you can find some small shops nearby. It’s advisable to bring your own water.

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

The temple is generally accessible to elderly and children, although the terrain may be slightly uneven in some areas. The temple does not have extensive provisions for disabled access, but basic mobility assistance may be possible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for the entrance fee. Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in the area. Credit cards may not be widely accepted on-site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the temple, but several local eateries and cafes are available within walking distance, offering Chinese and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some nearby restaurants. Halal food may be found in certain restaurants catering to Muslim visitors in Shenyang.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near Shisheng Temple, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For more luxury accommodations, you can find options in the city center, a short drive away.

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

Nearby attractions include the Shenyang Imperial Palace, Zhaoling Tomb, and Beiling Park. These sites can easily be combined into a day trip from Shisheng Temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops directly at the temple, but you can find local markets and shops nearby offering Buddhist-related items, Chinese crafts, and small trinkets.

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

Taxis, public buses, and the metro are available nearby. The temple is centrally located, so you can easily continue your trip to other nearby attractions or the city center.