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Chunyang Hall, formerly known as New Emei Temple and Lü Xian Temple, was originally a Taoist temple dedicated to Lü Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals. It was later converted into a Buddhist temple.
The temple is modest in scale, but its architectural layout and form are captivating. Built on a complex quadrangle courtyard layout, it faces south and boasts a wooden structure, covering nearly 2,000 square meters. Extant structures include the mountain gate, main hall, Sutra Library, Medicine Buddha Hall, and Samantabhadra Hall. The Medicine Buddha, Sunlight Bodhisattva, and Moonlight Bodhisattva enshrined within the halls are bronze and gilded, relics from the Qing Dynasty. Behind the halls, amidst the weeds, two stone tablets with legible inscriptions still remain, reflecting the history of Mount Emei, where Buddhism and Taoism coexisted initially, and later flourished, with the disappearance of the Taoists.
The entire Chunyang Temple stretches over a thousand meters above the sea. Surrounding the temple are towering ancient trees, which cast thick shade over the sun, creating a tranquil and pleasant environment. A few hundred meters from the Chunyang Temple, at the mountain pass, lies the former site of Huideng Temple. From here, one can gaze out over the peaks, and looking up, one can see the Golden Summit and the sheer cliffs, seemingly reaching up to the sky.
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Chunyang Palace is a Taoist temple in Leshan with a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is dedicated to the Taoist god of longevity and is an important religious and cultural site. The palace holds significance as a place for Taoist practice and is also a symbol of Chinese traditional beliefs in harmony with nature.
Chunyang Palace is located in Leshan, Sichuan Province. It is easily accessible by taxi or private car from Leshan city center, about 10-15 minutes away. Alternatively, public buses can take you close to the entrance, and you can walk from there.
The palace is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom. It is also less crowded during weekdays.
The entrance fee to Chunyang Palace is around 40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and it’s advisable to buy tickets on-site. Online ticket booking is not always available for this attraction.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can purchase tickets directly at the entrance. However, during peak tourist seasons, it's better to arrive early to avoid long queues.
It typically takes about 1-2 hours to explore Chunyang Palace, depending on your interest in the architecture, history, and gardens. If you wish to attend a religious ceremony, plan for an additional hour.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be available, but they are primarily in Chinese. It is recommended to book a guide in advance if you require assistance in other languages.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the temple's stairs, where you can capture scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the river. The palace's gardens also provide a lovely backdrop for photos.
Start by visiting the main entrance and exploring the main halls. Afterward, stroll through the gardens and take in the peaceful surroundings. Finish your visit by ascending to the top for the best panoramic views of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Chunyang Palace. The palace is primarily a daytime attraction focused on spiritual practices and natural beauty.
The palace can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during the weekdays, particularly in the morning before noon.
The palace has basic facilities including public toilets, rest areas, and small food vendors selling local snacks. There are no large shops, but you can find some souvenirs in nearby stands.
The attraction is generally accessible, but there are some steps and uneven terrain around the gardens that may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and gardens.
Cash is commonly used at Chunyang Palace, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted in some areas. Credit cards may not be widely accepted.
Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants. Halal food options may be limited, so it's recommended to check with the restaurant beforehand.
There are small souvenir stands near the palace selling Taoist religious items, small statues, and local crafts like paper fans and incense.
