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At Shifang Luohan Temple, visitors can explore the temple’s rich history, admire its architecture, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Don't miss the statues of the 18 Arhats, known for their intricate details. It's also a great place for photography and meditation. Additionally, the surrounding natural scenery is perfect for relaxation and reflection.
Shifang Luohan Temple, located in the northern part of Shifang City, is the main temple of the Linji School of Zen Buddhism. It is the place where the eighth-generation patriarch of Zen Buddhism, Master Daoyi, became a monk and preached in his later years. It is known as the "Buddhist Capital of Xichuan" and is famous both at home and abroad.
At Luohan Temple, you can drink tea in the hall in front of the Luohan Hall, which is shaded by plum trees, or listen to sutras in the Dharma Hall. The temple is a descendant of the Eighth Patriarch Mazu's Zen temple (called the Mazu Temple).
Because Mazu fully implemented the characteristics of Zen Buddhism in concrete daily life, he broke through the self-indulgence and fatigue of practitioners and redirected Zen to a realistic stance. The practical goal of Zen is not asceticism, but an extremely optimistic "joyful" life. Zen and wisdom, Zen and life are organically combined, and are respected by the Japanese Buddhist community.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
10 yuan/person
8:00-17:00
Shifang Luohan Temple is a Buddhist temple with a long history, renowned for its collection of statues of the 18 Arhats. The temple is a significant religious site in Sichuan, attracting worshippers and tourists alike for its tranquil environment and spiritual importance.
Shifang Luohan Temple is located in Shifang, a city in the Deyang region of Sichuan. The best way to reach it is by taxi or private car from Deyang or Chengdu, as public transportation options are limited. Buses from Deyang to Shifang are available, but it might be more convenient to use a taxi.
The temple is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning and late afternoon, as the temple is less crowded, and the weather is cooler for walking around the grounds.
The entrance fee is approximately 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance, but online ticketing options might not be available for this site.
Tickets do not need to be booked in advance, as the temple generally doesn't get overcrowded. However, for group visits, it may be advisable to book in advance, especially during festivals or peak tourist seasons.
It takes about 1-2 hours to explore Shifang Luohan Temple, including time to admire the architecture, visit the Arhat statues, and relax in the peaceful environment.
The must-see highlights are the 18 Arhat statues, each with unique expressions and details. The main hall and surrounding gardens are also worth exploring for their spiritual and aesthetic value.
Guided tours may be available at the temple in Chinese. It is recommended to inquire at the entrance about the availability of guides or tours on the day of your visit. Audio guides are not typically offered in other languages.
The best photography spots include the Arhat statues and the temple's main hall. The temple’s surroundings also offer scenic views of the mountains and peaceful nature, making it a great location for landscape photography.
Start your visit by entering the main hall, then move on to the Arhat statues. Afterward, take some time to explore the surrounding gardens and natural scenery. End your visit by sitting in the peaceful courtyard to reflect and relax.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available. The temple is best experienced during daylight hours, where the atmosphere is peaceful and reflective. Special tours may be arranged upon request.
The temple is relatively peaceful, especially on weekdays. It can get busier on weekends and during Chinese holidays. The least crowded times are in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available. There is a small shop selling religious items and souvenirs. No major food or water facilities are on-site, so it’s recommended to bring water or snacks if needed.
The temple is accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some of the outdoor areas may have uneven paths. For disabled visitors, accessibility could be limited due to the temple’s traditional design and natural terrain.
Cash is typically accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted at the temple’s entrance and the small shop.
There are no major restaurants inside the temple grounds. However, several local restaurants and eateries are available in Shifang city, which is a short drive from the temple.
Vegetarian food is generally available at local restaurants nearby. Halal and vegan options may be more limited but can be found at some places in Shifang city.
There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses near Shifang city. For a wider range of accommodations, staying in Deyang or Chengdu would be recommended, though both are about a 1-2 hour drive from the temple.
Nearby attractions include the Mount Emei Scenic Area and the Baoguo Temple. Both are relatively close and can be visited as part of a day trip, though they require some travel time.
There is a small souvenir shop at the temple selling religious items, Buddha statues, prayer beads, and local handicrafts. Typical souvenirs include religious artifacts and small charms.
The best transportation options are taxis or private cars to continue your trip. Public transportation is available, but it may be less convenient. Consider traveling by taxi back to Deyang or Chengdu for onward connections.
