Introducing Guiyuan Temple
Guiyuan Temple, located in Hanyang, is situated on the west side of Cuiwei Road in Hanyang District, Wuhan. It was founded in 1658 by monks Bai Guang and Zhu Feng from Zhejiang. The name "Guiyuan" comes from the Buddhist scripture "The Shurangama Sutra," which states, "There is only one way back to the origin, but there are many ways to achieve convenience."
"Guiyuan" (guiyuan) means "returning to the true nature," meaning transcending the boundaries of birth and death and returning to the true and tranquil origin. In Buddhism, Guiyuan Temple belongs to the Caodong school (one of the five schools and seven sects of Zen Buddhism), hence its name. Together with Baotong Temple, Xilian Temple, and Zhengjue Temple, it is known as one of Wuhan's four great monasteries.
Climate and best time to travel
Subtropical monsoon climate, March to May, September to November
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
1 hour
Tickets
20 yuan/person; 40 yuan/person on New Year's Eve, the 8th and 15th nights of the first lunar month.
Attraction opening hours
08:30--17:00, opening hours from the first to the fifteenth day of the first lunar month: 06:00--19:00.
Most Popular FAQs for Guiyuan Temple
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Guiyuan Temple, located in Wuhan, Hubei Province, was built in 1658 during the Qing Dynasty. It is one of the four most famous Buddhist temples in Wuhan and an important center of Zen Buddhism. The temple is known for its Hall of 500 Arhats, each statue uniquely sculpted. It also holds a large collection of Buddhist scriptures and relics, making it a significant site for both religious practice and cultural heritage.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Address: 20 Cuiwei Road, Hanyang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
- By Metro: Take Metro Line 4 to Zhongjiacun Station, then walk about 15 minutes or transfer by bus.
- By Bus: Several bus lines, such as Nos. 38, 401, and 521, stop near Guiyuan Temple.
- By Taxi: It’s about 15–20 minutes by taxi from Wuhan city center or Hankou Railway Station.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
- Best visiting time: Early morning for a peaceful atmosphere or during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.
- Avoid major Buddhist festivals if you prefer less crowding.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Entrance fee: Around 10 RMB per person.
- Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate; no advance booking is usually required.
- Some travel platforms in China also offer online ticket booking.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is not necessary. Tickets are easily available on-site, even during weekends or holidays.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
About 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the main halls, courtyards, and the Arhat Hall at a comfortable pace.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The Hall of Arhats (500 statues with individual expressions and postures).
- The Main Buddha Hall and Avalokitesvara Pavilion.
- The Grand Sutra Hall housing valuable Buddhist scriptures.
- The tranquil courtyards and lotus ponds.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours in Chinese are sometimes available for groups. English information signs are limited, so bringing a translation app or printed guide is recommended for international visitors.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- The main courtyard with the pagoda and pigeons offers great photos.
- The Arhat Hall interiors showcase beautiful craftsmanship (note: photography may be restricted inside).
- The temple’s main gate with traditional architecture provides an iconic shot.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the main gate and proceed to the Main Buddha Hall.
- Continue to the Hall of Arhats and the Grand Sutra Hall.
- Walk through the peaceful courtyards and end your visit at the pigeon square area for relaxation and photos.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
No night visits or light shows are available. The temple closes before evening.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.
- It tends to be busier on weekends, public holidays, and Buddhist festival days.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets and rest areas are available inside the temple grounds.
- Small stalls and nearby shops sell drinks, incense, and light snacks.
- No restaurants inside, but several dining options are available nearby.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Yes, the temple grounds are flat and accessible for elderly visitors and children.
- Wheelchair access is available in most areas, though some halls may have steps.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted.
- Cash is still accepted at the ticket counter and small shops.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Nearby options include local Hubei-style restaurants and noodle shops around Cuiwei Road.
- For more dining variety, head to Zhongjiacun commercial area (about 10 minutes away).
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Some nearby eateries serve vegetarian meals suitable for temple visitors.
- Halal restaurants can be found in Zhongjiacun or Hankou areas of Wuhan.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Wuhan Guiyuan Hotel (walking distance).
- Jinjiang Inn Select Wuhan Hanyang Avenue.
- Wanda Realm Wuhan Hotel (a short drive away, offering higher-end accommodation).
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge.
- Tortoise Mountain TV Tower.
- Yellow Crane Tower (across the river in Wuchang District).
- Hanyang River Beach Park.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Small souvenir stalls near the entrance sell Buddhist charms, incense, and prayer beads.
- Local specialties such as Wuhan tea and calligraphy scrolls are also available nearby.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Take Metro Line 4 from Zhongjiacun Station to reach other attractions like Yellow Crane Tower or East Lake.
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for direct transfers to hotels or scenic areas.
- Buses also connect to major districts across Wuhan.
