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Visit the Puning Temple to admire the grand architecture, explore the halls and pavilions, and pay respects to the Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin statue.
Located in Chengde City, Hebei Province, Puning Temple, originally built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, is a Han-Tibetan temple. The front half of the temple is Han-style, reflecting the characteristics of traditional Han Buddhist temples; the back half is Tibetan-style, modeled after the Sangyuan Temple in Tibet, blending these two distinct architectural styles. The entire temple is magnificent, covering an area of ​​approximately 23,000 square meters.
The main Buddha statue of Puning Temple is the Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin Bodhisattva, which is 27.21 meters tall. It is a gold-painted wooden sculpture of the Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin Bodhisattva. It is the largest wooden sculpture of Buddha in the world and has been included in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Temperate continental monsoon climate, suitable for travel year-round
1-2 hours
Peak season (April 1st - October 31st): 80 yuan (including Puyou Temple)
Off-season (November 1st to March 31st of the following year): 60 yuan (including Puyou Temple)
8:30-17:00 (ticket sales stop at 16:30)
Puning Temple, also known as the Temple of Universal Peace, was established in 1755 during the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty. It was constructed to commemorate the suppression of the Dzungar rebellion and to honor the Mongolian princes who participated in the campaign. The temple's design blends Han Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles, symbolizing the Qing Dynasty's respect for ethnic minorities.
Puning Temple is situated in Shuangqiao District, Chengde, Hebei Province, China. It is approximately a 10-minute taxi ride from the downtown area of Chengde. Public Bus No. 6 also serves the route to the temple.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the autumn months, from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are picturesque.
The entrance fee for Puning Temple is 80 yuan from April 1 to October 31, and 60 yuan from November 1 to March 31. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple's ticket office.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for Puning Temple. Tickets can be purchased directly at the temple on the day of your visit.
A visit to Puning Temple typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore, allowing time to appreciate the architecture, visit the halls, and view the main statue.
The main highlight of Puning Temple is the 26-meter-high wooden statue of the Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin, located in the Mahayana Pavilion. Other notable areas include the Grand Hall of the Buddha and the temple's surrounding pavilions and courtyards.
Guided tours are available at Puning Temple, and audio guides may be offered in various languages, including English and Chinese. It's advisable to check with the temple staff upon arrival for availability and options.
The best photography spot is in front of the Mahayana Pavilion, where the Guanyin statue is prominently displayed. The surrounding courtyards and pavilions also offer picturesque settings for photography.
Start your visit at the main entrance and proceed through the temple's halls and pavilions, making your way to the Mahayana Pavilion to view the Guanyin statue. Take time to explore the surrounding courtyards and pavilions before exiting.
Puning Temple does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours may be available during certain festivals or events; it's recommended to inquire at the temple for any special offerings during your visit.
Puning Temple can be moderately crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays during the early morning hours, just after opening.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available on-site. There are no food or water vendors within the temple complex, so it's advisable to bring your own refreshments. Rest areas are limited, so plan accordingly.
Puning Temple has some accessibility features; however, due to its historical architecture, certain areas may have uneven terrain or stairs. It's recommended to check with the temple staff for specific accessibility information and assistance.
It's advisable to carry cash, as not all vendors within or near the temple may accept cards or mobile payments. Having local currency on hand will ensure a smoother experience.
There are no restaurants or cafes within the temple complex. However, several dining options are available in the downtown area of Chengde, approximately a 10-minute taxi ride away.
Chengde offers a variety of dining options, including vegetarian, vegan, and halal cuisines. It's recommended to explore the downtown area for diverse food choices.
Several hotels are located near Puning Temple, offering convenient accommodations for visitors. Options range from budget to mid-range hotels, providing easy access to the temple and other attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Chengde Mountain Resort, Putuo Zongcheng Temple (Small Potala Palace), and Pule Temple. These sites are part of the Eight Outer Temples and can be conveniently visited in a day trip.
Souvenir shops are available near the temple and in the downtown area. Typical souvenirs include Buddhist-themed items, local handicrafts, and traditional Chinese goods.
After visiting Puning Temple, taxis and public buses are readily available to continue your journey to other attractions or back to your accommodation. For longer trips, Chengde Railway Station and the bus terminal offer connections to various destinations.
