Live Your Best Lives
Xuanzang Temple in Taiwan, located near Sun Moon Lake in Yuchi Township, Nantou County, was built to commemorate the Tang Dynasty monk Xuanzang, who traveled to the Western Regions to seek Buddhist scriptures and made significant contributions to the spread of Buddhism and Chinese culture. The temple faces Lalu Island (Guanghua Island) in front and Qinglong Mountain in the back. According to feng shui, the temple occupies a precious location known as the "Blue Dragon Playing with a Pearl." The temple consists of two floors, one enshrining Xuanzang's relics and the other a golden statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.
Xuanzang Temple is a replica of Tang Dynasty architecture. Its square floor tiles exude a smooth and simple feel, devoid of the lavish ornamentation of typical temples. Instead, its interior is elegantly furnished, imbued with a sacred and solemn atmosphere. The temple's archway and side gates clearly reflect the architectural style of mainland China. Beneath the temple, a large stone wall with Buddhist carvings depicts the route and stops of Master Xuanzang's journey westward. Outside, the lawns are planted with flowers and trees, creating a tranquil and elegant environment. Inside, the temple bells chime, and a fragrant aroma wafts through the air.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours
free
5:00-17:00
The Xuanzang Temple is dedicated to Xuanzang, a 7th-century Chinese Buddhist monk and scholar famous for his journey to India to retrieve Buddhist texts. The temple was built to honor his contributions to Buddhism and is a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists worldwide. It also houses statues and relics associated with Xuanzang's teachings.
Xuanzang Temple is located in the central region of Nantou County, Taiwan. You can take a bus from Taichung or a taxi to reach the temple. Public transportation is limited, so it’s recommended to take a taxi or rent a car for convenience. Walking paths are available within the temple grounds.
The temple is open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning, as it is quieter and cooler, offering a peaceful experience. Weekdays are generally less crowded compared to weekends.
There is no entrance fee to visit Xuanzang Temple. Donations are encouraged to support the temple's upkeep. There is no need to buy tickets, but it’s recommended to donate at the temple or at the donation boxes located throughout the site.
Booking tickets in advance is not required for the temple visit, as it is free to enter. However, if you plan to attend a special event or ceremony, it’s a good idea to check with the temple for availability and to make reservations in advance.
Visiting the Xuanzang Temple and exploring the surrounding area will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. If you wish to meditate or attend a ceremony, you may want to allow for additional time.
Guided tours are not always available, but you may find volunteer guides during certain hours. Audio guides are not typically provided, but pamphlets or brochures in English and Mandarin are available for self-guided tours.
The best viewpoints are around the main temple hall and the temple gardens, where you can capture scenic views of the temple’s architecture and natural surroundings. The surrounding mountains and the temple's serene atmosphere offer beautiful photography opportunities.
Start by entering the main hall and paying respects to the statue of Xuanzang. Then, explore the surrounding gardens and nature paths. Take your time to admire the temple's architecture and explore any smaller shrines or relic displays. End your visit with a quiet moment in the peaceful surroundings.
Night visits are not commonly available. The temple is generally closed after 5:00 PM. However, special ceremonies and events may occur during certain Buddhist holidays, so it’s recommended to check the temple’s schedule for any special tours or activities.
Xuanzang Temple is relatively peaceful, especially on weekdays and in the early morning. Weekends and public holidays can attract more visitors, so visiting during the weekdays is ideal for a more tranquil experience.
The temple offers basic facilities such as toilets and resting areas. There are no food stalls or restaurants directly inside the temple, but local food options can be found in nearby areas. Water stations are available in the temple complex.
The temple is generally accessible to elderly visitors and children, with paved paths around the main areas. However, some parts of the grounds may involve walking up steps or inclines. It’s recommended to check with the temple beforehand if any special accommodations are needed for disabled visitors.
Cash donations are preferred, but cards and mobile payments are increasingly accepted at some locations near the temple. It’s best to carry cash for donations.
Vegetarian options are commonly available at local Taiwanese restaurants near the temple. Vegan and halal food options may be limited, but there are a few eateries catering to different dietary preferences in the nearby area.
There are a few small shops selling Buddhist-related souvenirs, such as incense, statues, and religious items. Local handicrafts, tea, and postcards are also common souvenirs to pick up in the area.
