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Taiziping, formerly known as Wanxing Temple, was founded by the Ming Dynasty Zen Master Guzhi and rebuilt by the Qing Dynasty Zen Master Wenda during the Shunzhi reign. Legend has it that the temple was named Taiziping because it enshrined a statue of Changluo, the son of Ming Emperor Zhu Yijun.
Under the rock in front of the temple, there is a stone shaped like an elephant, named "Elephant King Stone". It is said to be the incarnation of the seated statue of Samantabhadra. The statue of the prince is no longer there, and now there is a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.
From the Jieying Hall, follow the mountain trail for about 3.5 kilometers to Taiziping. The road to Taiziping is commonly known as Qilipo. Amidst the vines on both sides stands a huge rock that looks as if it were cut by a knife or an axe. On the rock, three large characters, "First Mountain," naturally grown in moss, appear and disappear depending on the weather. Sometimes all three characters are visible, sometimes only one or two. Legend has it that when all three characters appear, the harvest will be plentiful that year. This magical scene is why it is called "One Mountain Sign of Auspiciousness."
Suitable for all seasons
Suggested playing time: about half an hour
Tickets are included in the Mount Emei Scenic Area ticket
7:00-18:00
Mount Emei is one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains in China, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. The Taiziping area is renowned for its ancient temples, Buddhist culture, and stunning natural scenery. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting its cultural and spiritual importance to both locals and visitors.
Mount Emei Taiziping is located in Leshan, Sichuan, about 7 kilometers from the main entrance of Mount Emei. The best way to reach the Taiziping area is by taxi or private car from Leshan or Emei Town. Public buses also operate from Emei Town to various points on the mountain.
The Taiziping area is open year-round. It is recommended to visit during the spring and autumn months for the most pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. The best time to visit is early morning to avoid crowds, especially during weekends or national holidays.
The entrance fee for the Taiziping area is approximately 60-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of Mount Emei or online through various tourism websites or local booking platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary but is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn) or during public holidays. It is advisable to book at least 2-3 days ahead during these times to ensure availability.
Exploring the Taiziping area typically takes around 2-4 hours, depending on how much time you spend at the temple, hiking, and enjoying the views.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and you can hire a guide at the entrance or through your hotel. Some tours offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides in English may also be available on request.
The best viewpoints are located along the hiking routes leading to the Taiziping Temple. There are also scenic spots offering breathtaking views of the surrounding forests, mountains, and valleys. The areas near the temple provide excellent opportunities for capturing the beauty of the site.
Start with a visit to the Taiziping Temple, then hike the main path that leads to several viewpoints along the way. If time permits, continue hiking up to other areas on Mount Emei, such as the Golden Summit.
Night visits are generally not available at Taiziping, as it is a natural and spiritual area with no scheduled light shows. Special tours or evening events may be held at nearby locations on Mount Emei, particularly at the Golden Summit.
The area can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The best time to visit for a quieter experience is on weekdays during the off-peak seasons, especially in winter and early spring.
Basic facilities like toilets, water stations, and small rest areas are available along the hiking routes. There are also small food stalls offering local snacks. Larger restaurants and shops are available at the base of Mount Emei.
The Taiziping area has some uneven terrain, making it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors to fully explore. However, the lower sections near the temple are more accessible to children and elderly individuals. It is advisable to check with the local tourism office for more detailed accessibility information.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in the area. Credit cards are not commonly accepted, so it's a good idea to carry cash or use mobile payment options.
There are several local restaurants and cafes at the base of Mount Emei, offering traditional Sichuan cuisine. A few smaller cafes are located near the Taiziping area, serving simple meals and snacks.
Vegetarian options are widely available, particularly in the Buddhist temples where vegetarian meals are served. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in larger cities like Leshan or Chengdu.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near the base of Mount Emei, including both budget and mid-range options. For luxury accommodations, you can find hotels in Leshan or at the Golden Summit of Mount Emei.
Souvenir shops are available at the base of Mount Emei, where you can find items like Buddhist statues, prayer beads, and local handicrafts. Tea and herbal products from the mountain are also popular souvenirs.
The best options for continuing your trip are by bus or taxi. If you're heading to Leshan or Chengdu, buses and taxis provide convenient routes from the base of Mount Emei.
