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Visit the main hall of Lushan Temple, which is known for its historical architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Explore the temple's surrounding gardens, and take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Don't miss the chance to view the ancient Buddhist scriptures and sculptures inside the temple.
Lushan Temple is one of the oldest temples in Hunan Province. Originally named Huiguangming Temple, it was renamed Lushan Temple in the early Tang Dynasty. Known as "the first famous scenic spot of the Han and Wei dynasties and the premier temple in Hunan," it is now a nationally recognized key Buddhist temple. The temple comprises the main buildings of the mountain gate, Maitreya Hall, Main Hall, Guanyin Pavilion, and dining hall. Among the temple's most precious cultural relics is the Lushan Temple Stele, now housed at Hunan University. This stele is a renowned Tang Dynasty stele and a provincially protected cultural relic. Vegetarianism has been a popular custom in my country since the pre-Qin period, and vegetarian food is a renowned delicacy here. One of the temple's signature vegetarian dishes, "Luohan Vegetarian Dishes," is prepared with eighteen ingredients, symbolizing reverence for the eighteen Arhats.
spring, autumn and winter ;
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: Lushan Temple Stele, Six Dynasties Pine
free
8:00-18:00
Lushan Temple is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Changsha. It has a rich history dating back over 1,000 years and is a significant site for Buddhist practices and cultural heritage in the region.
Lushan Temple is located in the southeastern part of Changsha. It can be reached by taking a taxi or bus from the city center. The nearest metro station is Wangchengpo (Line 2), which is a short taxi ride away from the temple.
The temple is open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, as these times are less crowded and provide a more serene experience.
The entrance fee for Lushan Temple is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance, or online through various local platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but during peak seasons or holidays, it is recommended to book online a few days in advance to avoid long queues.
It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore Lushan Temple and its surroundings, including visiting the main hall, gardens, and taking in the peaceful ambiance of the temple grounds.
The must-see highlights include the main hall with its impressive Buddhist statues, the ancient scriptures, and the beautiful surrounding gardens. The temple's serene atmosphere and historical significance are key draws for visitors.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides may be available upon request, but it’s advisable to check ahead as English-speaking guides are not commonly available.
The temple’s main hall and the surrounding gardens provide beautiful photography spots. The view from the temple grounds looking towards the nearby hills also offers a picturesque setting for photos.
Start by visiting the main hall, where you can explore the Buddhist statues and scriptures. Then, take a stroll through the gardens and end your visit by relaxing in the peaceful surroundings of the temple.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Lushan Temple. The temple operates during the day, offering a tranquil atmosphere and cultural experience.
The temple can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-season.
The temple has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are a few food stalls and shops selling religious souvenirs nearby, but dining options are limited on-site.
While the temple has some accessible paths, it may not be entirely wheelchair-friendly due to its historical structure and terrain. Elderly visitors and children may find the temple's uneven ground and steps challenging.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely available. Credit cards are not commonly accepted inside the temple.
There are a few small cafes and tea houses nearby that offer simple snacks and beverages. For a more substantial meal, you may need to head towards the city center.
Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be limited. It's best to check local restaurant listings for specific dietary needs.
There are several hotels near the temple, including budget accommodations and mid-range hotels. Popular options include the Hunan Forest Garden Hotel and Changsha Mingdu Hotel.
Nearby attractions include Yuelu Mountain and the Hunan Provincial Museum. These sites can be easily combined into a day trip with Lushan Temple.
There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist-themed items, including statues, incense, and prayer beads. Local handicrafts may also be available in the area.
After visiting Lushan Temple, the best transportation options include taxis, metro (Wangchengpo Station), or local buses to continue your exploration of Changsha.
