Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi

Introducing Mr. Liu Tongzhi's Temple

The Liu Tongzhi Ancestral Hall, located in Baisha Lane, Guiyang City, currently houses the Liuyi Kindergarten. Construction began in 1917 as the luxurious private residence of Zhang Xielu, then Minister of Finance of Guizhou Province. In 1918 , Liu Xianshi, then Governor of Guizhou Province, acquired the residence and converted it into the " Liu Tongzhi Ancestral Hall " in memory of his father, Liu Tongzhi.

Liu Tongzhi, a native of Xingyi, Guizhou, abandoned his studies during the Xianfeng reign to join the army and participate in militia training. In the early years of the Tongzhi reign, for his contributions in suppressing the White Flag Rebellion, he was appointed commander of the various armies in Anyi Town, Xingyi Prefecture. He was promoted to prefect while still a registered prefect, and later given the title of prefectural governor, remaining in Yunnan. At the end of the Guangxu reign, for leading a group in his hometown to fight against the Guangxi secret society uprising and to recapture Xingyi, he was promoted to deputy prefectural governor of Yunnan and commanded the Xingyi-Yunnan-Guizhou Jingbian Camp. In his later years, he expanded academies, established modern schools, and promoted industry, making significant contributions to the local area.

The ancestral hall faces south and north, with front and back courtyards remaining today, covering an area of ​​approximately 2,000 square meters. All buildings are wooden structures with gable roofs, and the two sides and rear eaves are brick-built hollow walls. The front eaves are decorated with wood, and the roof is covered with small green tiles.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

free

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Most Popular FAQs for Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi

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

The Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi is dedicated to the memory of Liu Tongzhi, a prominent historical figure in Guizhou. He was known for his contributions to local governance and development during the Qing Dynasty. The temple serves not only as a site for religious activities but also as a cultural landmark commemorating his life and legacy.

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

The Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi is located in Guiyang, Guizhou. It is accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. For those staying nearby, walking can be a pleasant option as the temple is situated close to other historical sites in the 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 times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The temple's peaceful environment is particularly refreshing during these times.

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

The entrance fee for the Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi is typically around 10-20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance in person. There is no need to book tickets online, and it is a straightforward process at the temple itself.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required. Visitors can purchase tickets at the temple entrance without any issues. However, visiting during peak tourist seasons might require arriving early to avoid waiting in line.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1-2 hours to fully explore the Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi. This includes time for photography, wandering the temple grounds, and learning about the history of Liu Tongzhi.

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

• The main hall, where the statue of Mr. Liu Tongzhi is displayed, is a key highlight.
• The courtyard and surrounding gardens, which provide a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
• Artifacts or inscriptions related to Liu Tongzhi's life and contributions are also worth exploring.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, providing in-depth information about Mr. Liu Tongzhi’s life and the temple’s history. Audio guides in Mandarin may also be available upon request. For non-Mandarin speakers, it's best to inquire at the entrance about the availability of English-language guides or materials.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the main hall and the temple's gardens. The temple is beautifully situated, offering great views of the surrounding area, especially at sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main entrance and visit the main hall to view the statue and learn about Mr. Liu Tongzhi.
• Walk around the temple grounds and explore the courtyard and gardens for a peaceful experience.
• Finish by visiting the smaller shrine areas or any exhibitions that highlight the temple's history and Liu Tongzhi's contributions.

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

There are no night visits, light shows, or special tours available at the Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi. The temple is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate its historical and architectural features.

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

The temple can be moderately crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially early in the morning or late afternoon.

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

Basic facilities like toilets are available at the entrance and near the temple grounds. There are no large restaurants or food outlets within the temple, but small shops around the area offer snacks and drinks. Visitors should bring their own water if planning to stay for a longer period.

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

The Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi is relatively accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, though some areas may require navigating steps. There are no major accessibility issues, but those with mobility concerns should check with the staff for the most convenient routes.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most commonly used methods for purchasing tickets and items from nearby shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants within the temple grounds, but a variety of local eateries and cafes offering traditional Guizhou cuisine are located nearby, including noodle shops and tea houses.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are commonly available in nearby eateries, with many dishes featuring vegetables and tofu. Halal food is not widely available in the area, but there are some specialty restaurants in Guiyang city that cater to halal diets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several budget hotels and mid-range accommodations are located near the Temple of Mr. Liu Tongzhi. For more luxurious options, you can find hotels like the Guiyang Sheraton or Hyatt Regency within a short drive from the temple.

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

• Qianling Park, a large park with scenic views, temples, and a zoo.
• Jiaxiu Tower, a historic structure with great views of Guiyang.
• Guiyang Old Town, with its traditional markets and historical architecture.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the temple offering items such as Buddhist statues, incense, and traditional Chinese handicrafts. You can also find local products like tea and silk scarves.

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

Taxi or private car are the best options for continuing your trip after visiting the temple. Public buses are also available for reaching other tourist spots in Guiyang, but taxis offer more convenience.