Liangshan Temple (Sichuan)

Introducing Liangshan Temple (Sichuan)

There are three Liangshan Temples in my country: Liangshan Temple in Jiange County, Sichuan, Liangshan Temple in Heyang County, Shaanxi, and Liangshan Temple in Qijiang County, Chongqing. Liangshan Temple in Jiange, Sichuan, is located at the summit of Dajian Mountain in Jianmen Pass, Jiange County. It sits on the "Sheshen Cliff" between Taohua Peak and Xiaoyao Peak, two of the 72 peaks of Jianmen, at an altitude of 1,180 meters. Stretching hundreds of miles from east to west, the steep mountain range creates a dangerous terrain, making it a crucial military location in ancient times.

At the end of the mountain road, an ancient temple stands tall, its gate inscribed with the characters "Liangshan Temple." The main hall is the Main Hall. Upon opening its doors, a couplet hangs on the left door, with the horizontal banner reading "Together Returning to the Mahayana." Inside, two dragons entwine pillars on either side of the hall. In the center, three Buddha statues sit on lotus pedestals, flanked by statues of Ananda Gaya. Sculptures of the Eighteen Arhats line the walls. Additionally, the temple grounds boast a centuries-old redbud tree, adorned with various forms. The courtyard also boasts a rectangular pool, known as the "Oolong Pond," several feet deep, never drying up in winter or summer.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

Included in the Jianmen Shudao Scenic Area Pass of 100 yuan

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Liangshan Temple (Sichuan)

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

Liangshan Temple is a significant Buddhist temple in Guangyuan, Sichuan, known for its long history and cultural value. Established in the Tang Dynasty, the temple has been a center of Buddhist practice and spiritual study for centuries. It is particularly famous for its well-preserved Tang Dynasty architecture and its ancient statues of Buddhist figures, which attract pilgrims and tourists alike.

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

Liangshan Temple is located in Liangshan County, Guangyuan, Sichuan Province, China. To get there:

• From Guangyuan city, you can take a taxi or private car to the temple, which takes about 30 minutes.
• Public buses are also available, connecting Guangyuan city to Liangshan County. Check local routes for convenience.
• The temple is accessible by walking from certain nearby points if you enjoy scenic routes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning for a peaceful experience, or during spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are lush and colorful.

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

The entrance fee for Liangshan Temple is approximately ¥30. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance. Online booking may be available during peak seasons, but generally, tickets are available at the gate without the need for pre-booking.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, except during peak travel seasons or public holidays. It is recommended to check the temple's official website or inquire locally for any special events or festivals requiring early booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Liangshan Temple, including the temple grounds, gardens, and the Liangshan Cultural Museum, you will need about 2 to 3 hours. If you're interested in hiking the surrounding hills, you might want to set aside an additional hour or two.

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

Key highlights of Liangshan Temple include:

• The main prayer hall with its ancient Buddhist statues.
• The Buddhist gardens, which are perfect for a peaceful walk.
• The Liangshan Cultural Museum, where you can learn more about the temple’s history.
• The scenic hills surrounding the temple, offering great views of the temple complex.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and the temple staff can provide information on the temple’s history and significance. However, audio guides are generally not offered, so it's a good idea to explore with a local guide or do some research beforehand for the best experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography include:

• The temple courtyard, where you can capture the architectural details of the temple buildings.
• The hilltop views surrounding the temple, offering a panoramic view of the temple complex and surrounding countryside.
• The garden paths, where you can capture the peaceful atmosphere of the temple grounds.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to the main prayer hall, where you can admire the ancient Buddhist statues. Then, explore the temple gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Afterward, visit the Liangshan Cultural Museum for a deeper understanding of the temple’s history. Finish your visit with a hike up the surrounding hills for a stunning view of the temple complex.

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

Night visits are generally not available, and there are no light shows or special tours at the temple. The best time to visit is during the day, when you can fully appreciate the architecture and the natural surroundings.

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

The temple can be crowded during Chinese public holidays, especially around Chinese New Year and National Day. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays or during the off-season, such as in spring or autumn.

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

There are basic toilets and rest areas on-site. The temple does not have major food outlets, but there are small local shops nearby where you can buy snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.

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

The temple is generally accessible for elderly and children, but there may be some uneven paths and steps around the gardens and the temple grounds. Disabled visitors may find access challenging in certain areas, especially if there are stairs to navigate.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted at the temple for entrance fees and souvenirs. Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted everywhere, so it’s advisable to carry some cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the temple, but you can find small local eateries in the nearby town of Liangshan, offering simple Sichuan dishes such as hotpot and noodles.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

In the nearby local restaurants, you can find vegetarian options, especially in the Buddhist vegetarian menu. Halal food is not commonly available in this area, but there are vegetarian-friendly dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include:

• Liangshan Hotel
• Guangyuan International Hotel
• Sichuan Jiuzhaigou Hotel

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

Other nearby attractions include:

• Fuhu Temple, another historic Buddhist site.
• Jiangzhou Ancient Town, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture.
• Bashu Cultural Park, which showcases Sichuan’s local culture and history.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops around the temple offering Buddhist-themed items, including prayer beads, incense, Buddha statues, and postcards featuring the temple’s architecture.

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

After visiting, you can use a taxi or public bus to travel to nearby destinations like Guangyuan city or continue your journey to Jiuzhaigou or Chengdu by train or bus.