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At Dashan Temple, visitors can explore the serene temple grounds, observe ancient Buddhist statues and inscriptions, and participate in peaceful meditation. It’s also a great place for cultural enthusiasts to learn about traditional Chinese architecture and religious practices.
Dashan Temple originally housed a large bronze bell and a collection of Buddhist scriptures, both donated by the Ming Dynasty's Prince Gui, but these items were later lost. A long stone water jar from the Baoqing period of the Song Dynasty, engraved with the characters "Guchun," still remains. After three years of renovation and two years of expansion, the temple now boasts over 100 rooms, including the Heavenly King Hall, the Ksitigarbha Hall, and the Skanda Hall, covering a total area of over 4,000 square meters. Dashan Temple now surpasses its peak size and has become one of the most important temples in Nanyue.
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;
Nearby attractions: Nanyue Temple, the most famous temple in the world, Fanyin Valley, Martyrs' Shrine, etc.
free
07:30-17:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
Dashan Temple has a long history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is an important site for Buddhist worship and holds significant cultural value in the region. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, which blends traditional Chinese and Buddhist elements.
Dashan Temple is located in Hunan province, near the city of Changsha. The temple is accessible by taxi or private car. If you are already in Changsha, it takes about an hour by car or taxi to reach the site. Public buses might be available depending on your starting location.
Dashan Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Weekdays are generally less crowded, making them ideal for a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee for Dashan Temple is typically around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the gate when you arrive, but it is also recommended to check for online booking options during peak tourist seasons to avoid long lines.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during national holidays or weekends. If you're traveling in a group, booking a few days ahead may be a good idea.
It will take around 1-2 hours to fully explore Dashan Temple. This allows enough time to walk through the temple complex, enjoy the scenery, and learn about its cultural significance.
The must-see highlights at Dashan Temple include the main hall with its large Buddha statue, the surrounding gardens, and the ancient inscriptions on the walls of the temple. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for reflection and photography.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may also offer basic English explanations. Audio guides are not commonly available, but a local guide can enrich the experience by explaining the historical and cultural context of the temple.
The best photography spots at Dashan Temple include the main hall, the temple’s roof with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and the gardens that offer a tranquil environment for capturing the natural beauty and architecture.
Start your visit by walking through the temple gates and exploring the outer courtyards. Then, proceed to the main hall to admire the Buddha statue, before strolling through the gardens. Finally, take a moment to visit the historical inscriptions and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Currently, Dashan Temple does not offer night visits or light shows. The temple is open during daylight hours, and special tours may be available during festivals or holidays. It’s best to check with local tour operators for any seasonal events.
Dashan Temple tends to get busy during weekends and national holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning when the temple is less crowded and the weather is cooler.
The temple has basic facilities such as clean toilets and rest areas. There are small shops outside the temple selling local snacks, souvenirs, and water. It’s a good idea to bring your own water during summer visits, as the temple grounds can get hot.
Dashan Temple is generally accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and seating areas. However, some parts of the temple may have stairs or uneven terrain. It’s advisable to check with the temple staff for specific accessibility details if you have special needs.
Cash is accepted at Dashan Temple, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted for entrance tickets, snacks, and souvenirs. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at the temple itself.
Inside the temple, there is no restaurant or café, but there are local eateries nearby that serve traditional Chinese and Hunanese dishes. Popular options include noodle shops and small family-run restaurants offering hot meals and snacks.
Vegetarian food options are available in the nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be limited in the area, but it’s always best to ask locally or opt for vegetarian dishes.
There are several hotels in the vicinity of Dashan Temple, ranging from budget options to mid-range hotels. For a more luxurious stay, you can find higher-end accommodations in the city center of Changsha, which is about an hour’s drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Yuelu Academy, the Hunan Provincial Museum, and the Xiangjiang River. These landmarks are easily reachable from Dashan Temple and can be combined for a full day of sightseeing in Changsha.
There are a few souvenir shops near Dashan Temple selling traditional Chinese crafts, religious statues, and local snacks. Typical souvenirs include incense, small Buddha figurines, and handmade items from the region.
After visiting Dashan Temple, taxis and local buses are the most convenient transportation options to continue your trip. If you are heading to other attractions in Changsha, a private car or taxi is recommended for comfort and convenience.
