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Yuxian Temple, named after the "Yuxian Cave" behind it, was built in the first year of the Tongzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty. It is a wooden structure and remains in good condition. Although small in size, the temple boasts a beautiful setting, taking advantage of the rugged terrain to create an unusual and unique landscape. To the left, the temple overlooks a thousand-foot-high cliff, while to the right, it overlooks a deep ravine. Legend has it that this place was often visited by immortals pointing the way, and was once the retreat of Dou Yi, a renowned hermit from the Han Dynasty.
Yuxian Temple is nestled in a unique location, nestled on the side of a cliff. Though a small, narrow room, it possesses a unique charm compared to the grander buildings and pavilions. Moss grows along the cliffs like tangled hair, entwined with ancient vines and dangling for over ten feet. These strands, known as the "Puxian Thread," are said to be the intentional thread left by Samantabhadra Bodhisattva on the cliff face to guide visitors to the summit.
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
Yuxian Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple with a rich history, dating back to the Tang dynasty. It is known for its well-preserved architecture and important religious role in the local community. The temple has long been a center for spiritual gatherings and a place of pilgrimage.
Yuxian Temple is located in Leshan, Sichuan. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from downtown Leshan. The closest bus station may require a bit of walking to reach the temple. Walking to the temple can be a scenic route for those who enjoy hiking.
The temple is generally open every day, from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, and during weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee is usually very affordable. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance directly, but there is no online ticket system currently available.
Tickets do not need to be booked in advance unless visiting during a national holiday or peak tourist season. It is recommended to buy tickets on the day of your visit.
Visiting Yuxian Temple usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the temple grounds and learning about its history.
The must-see highlights include the main hall with its impressive statues and carvings, the serene gardens, and the prayer halls. Don't miss the surrounding hills for panoramic views of the temple.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some guides may also speak basic English, but it's advisable to check ahead if you require an English-speaking guide. Audio guides are not commonly available.
The best viewpoints are from the temple’s hilltop areas, where you can capture beautiful shots of the temple and the surrounding landscape. The temple itself, with its ancient architecture, also offers great photo opportunities.
Start with a visit to the main hall to admire the religious artifacts. Then, walk through the temple’s courtyards and visit the smaller prayer halls. Conclude your visit with a peaceful walk around the surrounding gardens and hills.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows. However, during major festivals or holidays, special ceremonies may be held at the temple.
The temple can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available. There are small shops selling religious items and souvenirs. No large restaurants are on-site, but snacks and water are available.
The temple is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas may require navigating stairs or uneven terrain. Disabled visitors may find it challenging to access certain parts of the temple due to limited ramps.
Cash is still commonly used, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted in most areas. Credit cards are typically not accepted.
There are no restaurants within the temple, but there are a few small local eateries nearby offering Sichuan cuisine. For a wider variety, you can travel to downtown Leshan.
Vegetarian options are available in the local eateries, as many Buddhist temples serve vegetarian food. Halal options might be limited, so it's best to check with local restaurants in advance.
There are several hotels near the temple in Leshan, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Luxury accommodations are available in the downtown area of Leshan.
Nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Mount Emei, which is famous for its Buddhist temples and hiking trails.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the temple selling religious artifacts, Buddha statues, incense, and local crafts.
After visiting Yuxian Temple, taxis or private cars are the most convenient transportation options. Public transportation is available but may require transferring buses.
