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Daming Temple is located on the middle peak of Shugang Hill in the northwest corner of Slender West Lake in Yangzhou. It was first built in the Southern Dynasties, more than 1,500 years ago. Before the famous monk Jianzhen sailed to Japan, he preached Buddhist scriptures and gave precepts here.
The most famous thing in the temple is the Qiling Pagoda, which houses the relics of Sakyamuni. Great poets such as Li Bai, Bai Juyi, and Liu Yuxi have also visited and written poems there.
Daming Temple, nestled high on Feifeng Mountain, offers expansive views. To the south, one can see the snow-capped Taibai Mountain; to the west, the Xiqi River; to the north, the Zhenshen Pagoda at Famen Temple; and to the east, the Tai Mausoleum of Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty. Within the temple's front yard, a magnolia tree stands, its lush foliage and white, jade-like blossoms blooming in spring, earning it the reputation of "Yangzhou magnolias, unrivaled in the world."
March to April every year is the most beautiful season in Yangzhou and the best time to climb Daming Temple.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
45 yuan/person
7:45-16:30
Daming Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Yangzhou, Jiangsu, dating back over 1,500 years. It is renowned for its classical Chinese architecture, cultural relics, and its role in spreading Buddhism in the region. The temple holds historical significance as a center for religious, cultural, and literary activities.
Located in the north of Yangzhou city, Jiangsu Province. Accessible by taxi, ride-hailing services, and local buses. Walking is feasible from nearby neighborhoods, though metro access is not direct.
Open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and scenic views, avoiding peak summer heat.
Entrance fee is approximately 40–60 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via official tourism platforms and apps.
Booking is recommended during weekends and holidays, 1–3 days in advance. On regular days, tickets can usually be bought on arrival.
2–3 hours to explore the temple halls, gardens, pagodas, and nearby lake areas.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Some English-speaking guides or translation apps can assist non-Chinese visitors.
Enter through the main gate, visit central halls and pagodas, explore side halls and gardens, then finish at lakeside areas or souvenir shops.
Night visits are generally limited. Special tours or cultural events may occur during Buddhist festivals or local holidays.
Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded. Holidays and weekends can be busy, especially during festival periods.
Facilities include public restrooms, water fountains, seating areas, small cafes or food stalls, and souvenir shops.
Most paths are paved and accessible. Wheelchairs and strollers can navigate main areas, but some steps may exist in traditional halls.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and cards are widely accepted. Cash is optional but can be useful.
Vegetarian options are available in temple eateries. Vegan or halal options are limited and mostly found in nearby city restaurants.
Souvenirs include Buddhist artifacts, postcards, calligraphy, small statues, and local handicrafts.
Taxi, ride-hailing services, and local buses connect to other Yangzhou attractions, city center, or railway stations.
