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At Hohhot Dazhao Temple, visitors can explore the impressive architecture of this ancient Tibetan Buddhist temple. It’s a great place to learn about Tibetan culture, take part in local religious practices, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Don't miss the chance to view the large Buddha statue inside the temple and the surrounding gardens and prayer halls.
Dazhao Temple is a large Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the southern part of Yuquan District, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, belonging to the Gelugpa (Yellow Sect) sect.
Dazhao Temple, where "Zhao" means temple in Tibetan, was originally named "Hongci Temple" in Chinese and later changed to "Wuliang Temple".
Because it houses a silver Buddha, it is also known as the "Silver Buddha Temple." Dazhao Temple is the earliest Yellow Sect temple built in Hohhot and one of the largest temples built by Mongolian converts to the Yellow Sect in the early years of the Yellow Sect, only later than Meidaizhao Temple. It has a wide-ranging influence in Mongolia.
It was founded by Altan Khan, the leader of the Tumed tribe of Mongolia in the seventh year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1579 AD).
Completed in 1580, it is the earliest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Hohhot and one of the few temples in Mongolia that does not have a Living Buddha. Because Emperor Kangxi stayed here for several days, the monks abolished the Living Buddha's reincarnation policy as a sign of respect for the emperor.
Dazhao is not only a Buddhist holy place, but also a world-famous tourist destination.
The magnificent temple architecture, precious cultural relics and artworks, as well as the mysterious Chamu dance and Buddhist music constitute the unique "Temple Culture" of Dazhao.
Temperate continental climate, suitable for all seasons
Famous attractions: Dazhao Sakyamuni Eight Pagodas
2~3 hours
35.00 yuan
08:00~18:00
Hohhot Dazhao Temple is one of the oldest and most important Tibetan Buddhist temples in Inner Mongolia. Built during the Ming Dynasty in 1580, it is a significant religious site for the local Tibetan community. The temple houses a large golden Buddha statue and has become a place of pilgrimage and cultural heritage.
Hohhot Dazhao Temple is located in the center of Hohhot, Inner Mongolia. It is easily accessible by taxi or local buses. Visitors can also walk to the temple if staying nearby, as it is in a central location. The nearest public transport options include bus lines 1, 8, and 28.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon when the temple is less crowded. The temple is also beautifully serene during the early hours, offering a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
The entrance fee for Hohhot Dazhao Temple is usually around ¥20. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance. Online ticket booking may not be available, so it’s recommended to buy tickets upon arrival.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Hohhot Dazhao Temple, as the entrance is usually not crowded. However, during peak tourist seasons or religious festivals, it's a good idea to check local tour providers for group tour arrangements.
It typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore Hohhot Dazhao Temple, depending on how much time you spend admiring the architecture, visiting the prayer halls, and learning about the history and cultural significance of the temple.
The must-see highlights include the grand golden Buddha statue inside the main hall, the prayer halls, and the beautiful surrounding gardens. The temple’s architecture, with its intricate carvings and decorations, is also worth noting.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be available on request. Audio guides may be provided, but their availability in languages other than Mandarin is limited. It is recommended to check for available tours upon arrival.
The best photography spots are near the main hall where the Buddha statue is displayed, as well as the outer courtyards and gardens. These locations offer stunning views of the temple’s architecture and surrounding landscapes.
Start at the temple’s entrance, and proceed through the outer courtyard to the main prayer halls. Make sure to stop and admire the intricate Buddhist carvings and artwork. Spend time inside the main hall with the golden Buddha statue, and then explore the surrounding gardens and other buildings on the temple grounds.
Night visits or light shows are not available at Hohhot Dazhao Temple. The temple is generally visited during daylight hours, which is the best time to appreciate the beauty of the temple’s architecture and natural surroundings.
The temple is relatively busy during weekends, holidays, and religious festivals. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Mid-week visits are typically the least crowded times.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available at the temple. There are also small shops selling religious items and souvenirs. There are no large restaurants, but you can find local food options nearby in the city center.
The temple is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though the terrain inside the temple complex may be uneven in some areas. Disabled visitors may find certain sections of the temple more challenging due to stairs and uneven ground.
Cash is the preferred method of payment at Hohhot Dazhao Temple, though mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly accepted. Credit cards are not generally accepted.
There are several local restaurants and cafes near the temple where you can try Mongolian cuisine, such as lamb dishes, milk tea, and traditional soups. Popular restaurants include restaurants in the city center, which offer both local and Chinese food options.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in the local eateries around the temple. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in specialized restaurants around the city center.
There are several hotels near the temple, including mid-range options and more luxurious choices. Popular hotels include the Sheraton Hohhot Hotel and Jinguang Express Hotel, both of which are located in the city center and offer convenient access to the temple.
Other nearby attractions include the Inner Mongolia Museum, Xilitu Zhao Temple, and the Five Pagoda Temple. These sites are all easily accessible within a day trip from Hohhot Dazhao Temple.
There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling religious items such as Buddhist statues, prayer beads, Tibetan scarves, and Mongolian handicrafts. These make for unique souvenirs from your visit.
The best transportation options after visiting the temple are by taxi or public transport. You can easily take a taxi to the next attraction or use public buses to explore other parts of the city.
