Famen Temple

What are the most recommended things to do in Famen Temple?

  • Explore the Famen Temple complex, including its main hall, pagodas, and historical relics.
  • View the Precious Finger Relic of the Buddha, a key religious artifact preserved in the temple.
  • Visit the Buddhist Art Museum to see ancient statues, scriptures, and cultural exhibits.
  • Walk through the temple gardens and courtyards to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  • Attend a Buddhist ceremony or meditation session if available.
  • Photograph the architectural details, including the Tang-style buildings and pagodas.

Introducing Famen Temple

Famen Temple is located in Famen Town, about 10 kilometers north of Fufeng County, Baoji City. It was built in the Eastern Han Dynasty. It is a famous Buddhist temple with a long history and a rare treasure trove of cultural relics. It is known as the "ancestor of pagodas and temples in Guanzhong."

According to legend, in order to promote Buddhism, King Ashoka of India distributed the Buddha's relics to various places. Pagodas were built to enshrine them wherever the relics were found. Famen Temple is one of them, and it is the largest one. Because it houses the finger bone relics of Sakyamuni Buddha, it has become a Buddhist holy place admired by the whole country.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended visit time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

Peak season: 120 yuan (March 1 to November 30 every year)

90 yuan in the off-season (December 1st to February 29th of the following year)

Attraction opening hours

March 1st - November 30th 08:30-19:00

December 1st - February 28th of the following year, 09:00-18:00



Most Popular FAQs for Famen Temple

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

Famen Temple, located in Baoji, Shaanxi, is a historic Buddhist temple dating back over 1,700 years. It is famous for housing the Precious Finger Relic of the Buddha, making it one of China’s most important pilgrimage sites.

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

Famen Temple is located in Fufeng County, Baoji City, Shaanxi Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or bus from Baoji city center. High-speed trains to Baoji are also an option, followed by local transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit due to mild weather and fewer crowds.

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

Entrance fees are approximately 50-80 CNY, depending on the season and exhibitions. Tickets can be purchased on-site or via official online platforms.

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

Booking in advance is recommended during peak holidays and weekends. A few days prior is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan to spend 2-3 hours to fully explore the temple, museum, and gardens.

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

  • Main Hall and Buddha statues
  • Pagodas and temple architecture
  • Buddhist Art Museum
  • Precious Finger Relic chamber
  • Temple gardens and courtyards

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tours may offer English explanations. Audio guides may also be available on request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Front courtyard for panoramic shots of the temple complex
  • Main hall and pagodas for architectural photography
  • Temple gardens for natural scenery

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit the main hall, then proceed to the museum and relic chamber, followed by the pagodas and gardens.

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

Night visits are generally not available. Special Buddhist ceremonies may occur during festivals.

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

The temple can get crowded during holidays, especially Chinese New Year and Buddha’s Birthday. Weekdays and non-festival periods are least crowded.

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

Facilities include public restrooms, small restaurants and snack stalls, rest areas, and souvenir shops.

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

Most areas are accessible, though some stairways and uneven surfaces may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat) are widely accepted. Cash is also usable at smaller vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants and snack vendors are available near the temple entrance. Baoji city offers more diverse dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at temple canteens. Halal food is limited; inquire in Baoji city for options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations include guesthouses near the temple and hotels in Baoji city, around 30 minutes by car.

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

Nearby attractions include Baoji’s Famen Pagoda Cultural Park and Zhouyuan Museum, which can be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell Buddhist-themed items such as prayer beads, statues, calligraphy, and postcards.

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

Visitors can take taxis, local buses, or private cars to Baoji city center or to nearby tourist sites. High-speed trains are available from Baoji to other cities in Shaanxi.