Holy Spring Temple

What are the most recommended things to do in Holy Spring Temple?

  • Explore the main temple halls and admire traditional Chinese architecture.
  • Visit the holy spring and surrounding gardens for peaceful scenery and reflection.
  • Take part in local religious or cultural rituals, if allowed.
  • Photograph the scenic mountain and temple views.
  • Walk the scenic paths around the temple area for nature immersion.

Introducing Holy Spring Temple

Shengquan Temple, also known as Longquan Zen Temple, is located in Fengshan Forest Park on the north slope of Doushankou, 1.5 kilometers northwest of Longcheng Town, Xiaoxian County, Anhui Province. It is a thousand-year-old temple with a unique architectural style and a north-facing gate. It is one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Xiaocheng and is named after the "Holy Spring" spring next to the temple.

With the temple at its core, numerous scenic spots surround it. To the left of the mountain lies Peach Blossom Cave, said to be the place where the Peach Blossom Fairy practiced asceticism. North of the temple lies a stone cave, over ten feet deep, known as Xian Cave for its "Sounds of Reading." East of the temple lies the Holy Spring, a small pond that never dries up, its waters are sweet and refreshing, attracting a constant stream of visitors seeking refreshment.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Shusheng Cave

Shusheng Cave, also known as Xiandong ("Two Sons' Book Sound Cave"), is located a few dozen steps southwest of the temple and is over ten feet deep. Legend has it that in ancient times, travelers passing by the cave at night often heard the sound of two people reading. Listening carefully, they could hear two people asking and answering each other, hence the name. Old chronicles refer to it as "Xiandong Book Sound," and it is listed as one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Xiaocheng (including the Xiantai Chess Scene, Xiandong Book Sound, Bianliu Dawn Ferry, Spring Ploughing at the Well, the Bright Moon at Longtan, the Rising Clouds at Fengling, the Strange Fragrance of Heavenly Dates, and the Strange Trace of the Divine Bell).


Peach Blossom Cave

Taohua Cave is located midway up the west side of Shengquan Mountain, about three miles southwest of Shengquan Temple. There's a lawn in front of the cave, while behind it are steep cliffs and jagged rocks on both sides. To enter the cave, one must weave sideways through a gap between the boulders. The cave, humid and dark, is chilly enough to hold a hundred people. There are four smaller caves to the north and south of the cave.


Sanxiantai

The spring waters of Shengquan Temple nourish Sanxiantai, a small village at the foot of the mountain. Located between present-day Sanxiantai Village and Sheng Village, Sanxiantai faces the ancient city of Xiaoxian across the water. Just under a hundred meters high, its proximity to Xiaoxian made it a popular destination for tourists and scholars during the Ming Dynasty. The lushly wooded mountain offers panoramic views of the ancient city of Xiaoxian County, earning it a spot designated as one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Xiaoxian County in the mid-Ming Dynasty.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

6:00-21:00


Most Popular FAQs for Holy Spring Temple

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

Holy Spring Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Suzhou, Anhui Province, known for its sacred spring and traditional architecture. It has served as a religious site for centuries and is significant for local Buddhist practices, cultural heritage, and serene natural surroundings.

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

  • Location: Suzhou, Anhui Province, China, often near scenic mountain areas.
  • By bus: Local buses from Suzhou city center or nearby towns.
  • By taxi or ride-hailing services: Convenient for direct access from city areas.
  • Walking: Once at the temple entrance, walking is necessary to explore the grounds.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Opening hours: Typically 7:00 AM–5:00 PM, but may vary seasonally.
  • Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic views.

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

  • Entrance fee: Usually modest, around 20–40 CNY per person.
  • Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; online booking may be available through local tourism websites.

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

Advance booking is generally not required unless visiting during peak holidays or weekends. If desired, 1–2 days in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 2–3 hours to walk through the temple halls, gardens, and holy spring area.

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

  • Main temple halls with Buddhist statues and offerings.
  • The holy spring and surrounding gardens.
  • Traditional pavilions and bridges on temple grounds.
  • Scenic mountain viewpoints nearby.

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

Guided tours may be available locally in Chinese; English-speaking guides are limited. Audio guides are generally not standard.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Near the holy spring for reflections and serene landscapes.
  • Temple halls with ornate roofs and statues.
  • Mountain trails overlooking the temple grounds.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start at the main entrance and visit the primary temple halls.
  • Walk to the holy spring and gardens.
  • Explore pavilions and bridges for scenic photos.
  • Finish with a walk along nearby mountain paths for panoramic views.

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

Night visits are generally not available; the temple is mainly a daytime attraction. Special cultural events may occur during Buddhist festivals.

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

  • Most crowded: Public holidays and weekends.
  • Least crowded: Weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons.

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

Basic facilities include restrooms, water fountains, and small refreshment stalls. Some souvenir shops may be available near the entrance.

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

Temple grounds are partially accessible. Some stairs and uneven paths may limit access for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can explore easily under supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

  • Cash (CNY) is preferred for entrance fees and small purchases.
  • Mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay may be accepted at some stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Local vegetarian and Buddhist cuisine near the temple entrance.
  • Small cafes and snack stalls along nearby streets.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially temple-linked eateries. Halal options may be limited in this rural area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Local guesthouses and inns in Suzhou city or nearby towns.
  • Mid-range hotels in Suzhou provide convenient access by taxi or bus.

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

  • Mountains and scenic trails in Anhui province.
  • Local historical villages and temples.
  • Nearby parks or cultural museums in Suzhou area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Temple-related souvenirs such as prayer beads, incense, and Buddhist figurines.
  • Postcards and small handicrafts.

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

  • Taxi or ride-hailing to nearby Suzhou city attractions.
  • Local buses to other scenic areas in Anhui province.
  • Private car or tour services for day trips to mountains or villages.