Shuilu Temple

Introducing Shuilu Temple

Shuilu Temple is located at the foot of Wangshun Mountain in Puhua Town, 10 kilometers east of Lantian County , and is located at the tail of a small island shaped like a lying fish. It is surrounded by water on three sides and looks like an isolated island with towering green mountains and flowing rivers, so it is called

Shuilu Temple is a national key cultural relic protection unit, famous for preserving ancient exquisite and rare colored sculptures. It is known as the " Second Dunhuang in China " and is the largest group of wall sculptures currently preserved in China.

The most striking feature are the colorful clay sculptures in the main hall of Shuilu Temple, said to be the work of the renowned Tang Dynasty sculptor Yang Huizhi. The most striking are the sculptures on the north and south walls, which depict the life story of the Buddha Shakyamuni in a vivid and lifelike manner, in the form of comic strips.

The clay sculptures include landscapes, bridges, gardens, waterfalls, pavilions, palaces, pagodas, and other architectural structures. They also depict Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, the Twenty-Four Devas, Five Hundred Arhats Crossing the Sea, a Thousand People Listening to Sutras, a statue of Sakyamuni at Nirvana, as well as birds, beasts, and Qilin. The overall layout is meticulous and lifelike, fully demonstrating the rich imagination and superb sculpting skills of ancient Chinese masters.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free entry with ID card

Attraction opening hours

9:00-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Shuilu Temple

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

Shuilu Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, known for its unique blend of Taoist and Buddhist influences. The temple has been a site of religious activity for centuries and is revered for its spiritual importance and cultural heritage. It is one of the lesser-known but historically significant temples in the region.

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

Shuilu Temple is located in the western part of Xi'an, Shaanxi Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or public bus. It is also accessible by walking from nearby landmarks if you are exploring the surrounding area.

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 time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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

The entrance fee for Shuilu Temple is approximately ¥15. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance. Online booking may not be available for this attraction.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general visits. However, during peak tourist seasons, it's recommended to arrive early to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore Shuilu Temple fully, depending on your interest in its historical details and religious significance.

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

• The main temple hall, which houses the Buddha statues and relics.
• The tranquil temple gardens and courtyards.
• The ancient inscriptions and stone carvings, which are an important part of the temple’s history.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be limited, and audio guides may not be available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The temple gardens and courtyards offer great opportunities for photography, especially during early morning or sunset light.
• Inside the main hall, the Buddha statues and ancient inscriptions make for great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main hall with its Buddha statues, then take a walk through the gardens. Don’t miss the historical carvings along the temple grounds. Finish with a quiet moment in the courtyard for reflection.

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

Night visits or light shows are not typically offered at Shuilu Temple. However, special religious ceremonies or events may occur during festivals.

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

The temple can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, particularly outside the peak tourist season.

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

The temple has basic facilities, including toilets and water stations. There are small shops near the entrance selling religious items and souvenirs, but there are no large restaurants or food stalls within the temple grounds.

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

Shuilu Temple is generally accessible to elderly visitors and children, with paved paths and gentle slopes. However, some areas may have stairs or uneven surfaces that could be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used for small transactions. Credit cards may not be accepted inside the temple.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no cafes inside the temple, there are several local restaurants nearby offering Xi'an-style dishes like noodles, dumplings, and other Chinese delicacies.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available at nearby restaurants, particularly those serving traditional Xi'an cuisine. Halal food is also available, as Xi'an has a large Muslim population.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Several budget-friendly hotels are located within walking distance of Shuilu Temple.
• For more luxurious options, visitors can stay in the city center, which is a short drive away.

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

• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is nearby and a must-see historical site in Xi'an.
• The Xi'an Ancient City Wall is another nearby landmark that can be visited in the same day.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling religious items such as incense, prayer beads, and Buddhist statues, as well as traditional Chinese crafts.

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

Taxis and public buses are available near the temple for onward travel. Visitors can also take the metro from nearby stations to explore other parts of Xi'an.