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At Nanyue Temple, visitors can explore the temple's rich cultural heritage, including its ancient architecture, stunning mountain views, and tranquil atmosphere. Hiking up to the temple is a popular activity, offering both scenic beauty and a spiritual experience. Visitors can also enjoy the various statues and intricate carvings around the temple.
The Nanyue Grand Temple, a complex integrating folk ancestral temples, Buddhist monasteries, Taoist temples, and imperial palaces, is the largest temple in southern my country and among the Five Sacred Mountains, covering an area of 98,500 square meters. The temple is divided into nine courtyards and four levels, housing the main hall, sleeping quarters, the Imperial Library, and the Panlong Pavilion. With eight Taoist temples to the east and eight Buddhist temples to the west, it is a truly unique temple in my country. Every year on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, a grand temple fair is held, attracting numerous devout worshippers, resulting in a constant flow of worshippers year-round. Known as the "First Temple in Jiangnan" and the "Forbidden City of the South," it is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction.
Suitable for all seasons;
It has a subtropical monsoon humid climate with distinct four seasons, hot and rainy summers and warm and humid winters.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
Famous attractions: the main hall, the sleeping palace, the Imperial Library, the Panlong Pavilion, etc.
Nearby attractions: Hengshan Mountain, Longfeng Creek, Yehou Academy, Frog Club, Shigujiang Mountain, Dongzhou Taolang, etc.
Adult ticket: 60 yuan, insurance fee 3 yuan (optional). Children 1.3-1.5 meters tall and seniors 60-70 years old with a certificate are half-price, while children under 1.3 meters tall and seniors 70 years old are free with a certificate. The scenic area may reduce ticket prices during the off-season (November 1st to April 30th of the following year), but the extent of the reduction may vary from time to time and will be subject to the scenic area's announcement on the day.
07:00-17:30 (Monday-Sunday, May 1st-October 31st)
07:30-17:30 (Monday to Sunday, November 1st - April 30th of the following year)
Nanyue Temple is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in China, located on the sacred Mount Heng (Hunan). The temple is a spiritual center, dedicated to the belief in the Mount's role as one of the Five Great Mountains of Taoism. It has long been a pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Taoists.
Nanyue Temple is located in Hengyang, Hunan Province, on the slopes of Mount Heng. It can be reached by taking a taxi or public bus from Hengyang city center. For visitors who enjoy hiking, there are walking trails that lead up to the temple from nearby areas.
The temple is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscape is particularly beautiful. Avoid visiting during major public holidays when the site can become crowded.
The entrance fee to Nanyue Temple is around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the temple, and there are no online booking options for general admission at this time.
There is no need to book tickets in advance for regular visits. However, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons or for special events. A few days in advance should be sufficient.
It typically takes about 2-3 hours to explore Nanyue Temple thoroughly, including walking around the temple grounds and hiking up to the temple. If you're interested in the surrounding natural scenery, you may want to allocate additional time for hiking.
The main highlights are the Great Hall with its large statues of Buddhist deities, the tranquil gardens, and the stunning views from the temple grounds. Don’t miss the Nanyue Buddha statue, a key attraction in the temple.
Guided tours are available, with guides offering insights into the history and cultural significance of the temple. The guides primarily speak Mandarin, but some English-speaking guides may be available upon request.
The best photography spots are around the main hall, where you can capture the Buddha statues and surrounding architecture, as well as the panoramic views of the Heng Mountain from the temple’s grounds.
Start at the main entrance and walk up the path to the Great Hall. Explore the various halls and courtyards, then continue to the Nanyue Buddha statue. Afterward, enjoy the peaceful gardens and take in the views of the surrounding mountains.
Night visits are not typically available at Nanyue Temple, and there are no scheduled light shows. However, special tours may be offered during festivals or public holidays, so it’s worth checking in advance if you’re visiting during those times.
The temple can get crowded on weekends and during Chinese public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
The temple has basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and food stalls offering local snacks. There are also small shops selling religious items and souvenirs. Visitors should bring their own water, especially if planning to hike up to the temple.
The temple is partially accessible for elderly or disabled visitors, though there are some steep steps leading up to the temple that may be difficult for those with mobility challenges. Children will enjoy the temple grounds and gardens, but the hike might be a challenge for younger children.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used at the temple. Credit cards may be accepted in larger souvenir shops but are not commonly used for smaller purchases.
There are a few simple restaurants and food stalls near the temple offering local Hunan cuisine, such as spicy dishes and snacks. For more options, you can head to Hengyang city, which has a range of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, particularly in the form of vegetarian Buddhist dishes. Halal options may be harder to find, but there are some available in nearby Hengyang.
Nearby hotels include the Hengyang International Hotel and the Hunan Nanyue Hotel. There are also guesthouses and budget accommodations in the area.
Other nearby attractions include the Hengyang Nanyue Scenic Area, Mount Heng, and the Hengyang Museum. These sites can easily be combined in a day trip from Nanyue Temple.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling religious items such as Buddha statues, prayer beads, and incense. Visitors can also find local handicrafts and Hunan specialty items.
After visiting Nanyue Temple, taxis or buses are available to continue your trip. Hengyang city center is easily accessible by public transport, and taxis can take you to nearby attractions.
