Qinglong Temple in Xi'an

Introducing Xi'an Qinglong Temple

Qinglong Temple, the ancestral temple of the Tantric Buddhism, one of the eight major Buddhist sects, and the ancestral temple of the Shingon Buddhism in the Tang Dynasty, is located on the Leyouyuan Plain in the southeast of Xi'an City. During the Tang Dynasty, it was the Xinchangfang inside the Yanxing Gate of Chang'an. The temple was built in the second year of Kaihuang (582) during the reign of Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty. It was originally named "Linggan Temple" and was renamed Qinglong
Temple in the second year of Jingyun (711). Qinglong Temple was at its peak in the middle of the Tang Dynasty. At that time, many foreign monks studied here, especially Japanese monks. Six of the famous "Eight Great Masters of the Tang Dynasty": Kukai, Enxing, Ennin, Huiyuan, Enchin, and Zongrui from Japan received the Dharma at Qinglong Temple. The famous Japanese monk Kukai studied under Master Huiguo here and later became the founder of the Shingon Buddhism in Japan.
Every year from March to April, the cherry blossoms in the Qinglong Temple are in full bloom. The temple has the most complete variety of cherry blossoms, the longest history of cherry blossom cultivation, and the most precious cherry blossom culture, attracting many domestic and foreign tourists to come and enjoy.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons, the best time to enjoy cherry blossoms is from March to April.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

2-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:30-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Qinglong Temple in Xi'an

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Qinglong Temple in Xi'an is a significant Buddhist temple with a history dating back over a thousand years. It has been a center of religious worship and culture, particularly in the Tang and Ming dynasties. The temple is important for its ancient architecture and its role in preserving Buddhist traditions in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Qinglong Temple is located in the eastern part of Xi'an. It is accessible by taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses may also be available, and walking from nearby attractions is possible if you are in the vicinity of the Eastern City Gate.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, as it can get crowded during mid-day with both tourists and locals. Weekdays are less busy than weekends.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the temple's entrance. There is no online ticketing system, so you will need to buy tickets on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required. However, during peak seasons or holidays, it may be advisable to arrive early to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the temple, depending on your interest in the historical artifacts and the surrounding gardens.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the main hall, where you'll find impressive Buddhist statues and intricate carvings, and the surrounding gardens that offer a peaceful setting for reflection and photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours in Mandarin are available. Audio guides may be available, but they are typically in Chinese. It’s advisable to check with the temple staff for any availability in English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the temple’s main hall and in the surrounding gardens. The temple’s architecture against the backdrop of the gardens makes for beautiful photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main hall, then explore the courtyards and surrounding gardens. Afterward, take some time to walk through the peaceful paths and relax by the ponds. Take note of the ancient trees around the temple, which add to the temple’s serene atmosphere.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available. However, the temple can be a peaceful spot for reflection in the evening, though it closes by 5:00 PM.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The temple can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets available on-site. There are no extensive food or water facilities, but nearby shops offer snacks and drinks. There are also small rest areas for visitors to relax.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple is accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths leading to the main areas. However, some parts of the temple may not be wheelchair accessible due to the terrain, so it's advisable to check the current accessibility status with the temple management before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay or Alipay) are widely used and preferred. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at the temple.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small local restaurants near the temple offering Xi'an-style dishes. For a wider selection, visit the city center where you can find more dining options ranging from street food to upscale restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available in local restaurants nearby. Halal food can also be found in Xi'an, particularly in the Muslim Quarter, but not necessarily near the temple.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are budget hotels and guesthouses nearby. For more luxurious accommodations, consider staying in the city center of Xi'an, which offers a range of hotels with various price points.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Xi'an City Wall, both of which can be easily combined in a day trip. Additionally, the Muslim Quarter is just a short distance away for a cultural experience.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist artifacts, incense, and postcards. More extensive souvenir options can be found in Xi'an’s city center, particularly in the Muslim Quarter.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, taxis or private cars are the best transportation options for continuing your trip. Public buses and the metro are also available for traveling to other major attractions like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda or the ancient city wall.