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The Vajra Seat Relic Pagoda, located at No. 48 Wuta Temple Back Street, Yuquan District, Hohhot City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, was built during the Yongzheng period of the Qing Dynasty. Originally named the Vajra Seat Relic Pagoda, it was given the name Wuta Temple because of the five square relic pagodas atop its base. Standing approximately 16 meters tall, the pagoda is constructed entirely of glazed bricks. The lower level features inscribed text from the Diamond Sutra in three languages, while the upper levels are filled with thousands of exquisitely carved, delicately gilded Buddha statues.
Climate: Temperate continental climate
Best time to travel: July to November
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
09:00-17:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
The Vajrasana Relic Pagoda is a sacred Buddhist site known for housing relics of the Buddha. It holds immense spiritual significance for local Buddhists and is an important pilgrimage site. The pagoda's design and architecture reflect traditional Buddhist culture and history.
The Vajrasana Relic Pagoda is located in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia. You can take a taxi or private car from the city center to the site. Public transportation options like buses are available, but it is more convenient to use a taxi or guided tour for direct access.
The pagoda is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the site is less crowded and the weather is cooler, especially during the spring and autumn months.
Entrance to the Vajrasana Relic Pagoda is generally free, but some special tours or events may require a small fee. Tickets for such events can be purchased at the entrance or from local tour operators. It is advisable to check in advance for any special events.
Booking in advance is not typically necessary unless you plan to visit during special events or Buddhist ceremonies. For guided tours, booking 1-2 days in advance is recommended.
Exploring the Vajrasana Relic Pagoda and its surrounding areas can take 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the history and architecture of the site. If you plan to meditate or join a prayer ceremony, you may want to set aside more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes in English. Audio guides may also be offered in multiple languages for visitors who prefer self-guided exploration.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the pagoda (if accessible), where you can get a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Photography is also great at sunrise or sunset when the light creates beautiful shadows around the pagoda’s structure.
Start by visiting the main hall to view the relics and statues, then take a stroll around the pagoda’s exterior to admire the carvings. Finally, visit the nearby meditation spaces before concluding with a peaceful walk around the surrounding gardens.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Vajrasana Relic Pagoda. However, it is advisable to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the site is quieter, and the atmosphere is more serene.
The site is generally less crowded during weekdays, especially in the early morning. Weekends and public holidays may see more visitors, so visiting on weekdays is recommended for a more peaceful experience.
There are basic facilities like toilets and resting areas. However, food and water are limited at the site, so it’s advisable to bring your own supplies. Shops selling small Buddhist trinkets may be available near the pagoda.
The Vajrasana Relic Pagoda is generally accessible for elderly and children. However, due to the terrain around the pagoda, it may not be as suitable for visitors with mobility challenges. It is advisable to check in advance for any accessibility provisions.
Cash is preferred, especially in smaller local shops around the pagoda. Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted at the entrance and for ticket purchases, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for convenience.
There are no major restaurants inside the pagoda complex, but you can find local eateries and cafes in nearby areas in Hohhot, offering traditional Mongolian dishes such as lamb and dairy products.
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found in nearby restaurants in Hohhot, though options may be limited. Halal food may also be available in the city, as it has a significant Muslim population.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the pagoda and around Hohhot. Typical souvenirs include Buddhist statues, prayer beads, Mongolian handicrafts, and traditional garments.
Taxi or private transport is the best option for continuing your trip. Hohhot's public transportation system, including buses and the train station, are also accessible from the pagoda, but taxis are more convenient for tourists.
