Ciyun Temple

Introducing Ciyun Temple

Ciyun Temple, located at No. 5 North Street in Qingyan Ancient Town, is adjacent to the Wanshou Palace. Originally built during the reign of Emperor Kangxi, it features a wooden structure with a gable roof, facing west and covering approximately 1,200 square meters. The entire structure remains intact, and its numerous stone column bases, each in a unique shape, are among the finest examples of stone carving art found in Guiyang.

The wood carvings on the theater are all concentrated on the upper and lower eaves of the theater. These exquisitely crafted wood carvings mainly reflect stories related to historical figures such as Liu Bei, Zhang Fei, and Guan Yu during the Three Kingdoms period, such as " Zhou Yu's Strategy " , " Three Heroes Fighting Lü Bu " , " Discussing Heroes over Wine " , " Zhang Fei's Decision in Dangyang " , " Cao Cao Invites His Troops to Go Down to Jiangdong " , and " Guan Yu Floods the Seven Armies " .

In the middle of the theater, the large wall relief of the word " Fu " composed of dragons and phoenixes is the most exquisite artistic treasure.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour

Tickets

Tickets are included in the Qingyan Ancient Town Scenic Spot Combo Ticket

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Ciyun Temple

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

The Ciyun Temple is a Buddhist temple with a rich history, built to honor Buddhist traditions and practices. It has been an important site for both locals and travelers seeking spiritual peace and reflection.

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

Ciyun Temple is located in Guiyang, Guizhou, China. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transport options are limited, so a taxi is the most convenient way to get there.

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 enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.

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

Entrance to Ciyun Temple is generally free. However, there might be a small fee for special activities or temple tours, which can be paid on-site.

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

No need to book tickets in advance, but for special ceremonies or group visits, it’s recommended to book a day or two ahead of time.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take about 1-2 hours to fully explore the temple, including time to walk around the temple grounds, appreciate the architecture, and visit the surrounding nature.

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

• The main hall, where you can see Buddhist statues and religious artwork.
• The pagoda and its panoramic views over the surrounding area.
• The temple grounds, featuring beautiful gardens and a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection.

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

Guided tours are available at Ciyun Temple, typically in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, so it’s a good idea to ask in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the pagoda offers panoramic views of the surrounding city and landscape.
• The temple’s front gate and main hall are ideal spots for capturing the temple’s architectural beauty.
• The garden area surrounding the temple offers peaceful photo opportunities with the backdrop of nature.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by visiting the main hall and appreciating the statues and artwork.
• Take a walk around the temple grounds and visit the pagoda for a great view of the area.
• End by exploring the gardens or taking some time for reflection or meditation in one of the peaceful spots around the temple.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at Ciyun Temple. The best experience is during the day when the temple is open to visitors and spiritual activities are taking place.

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

The temple is less crowded on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier, with more visitors from nearby areas.

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

• Basic facilities like toilets are available near the entrance.
• There are no large food or shopping areas inside the temple, but there are small local shops nearby in Guiyang for snacks and drinks.

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

The temple area is relatively accessible, with paved paths around the main structures. However, some areas may involve steps, and the temple’s garden area can have uneven ground, making it less suitable for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

It’s recommended to bring cash, as many small attractions in the area may not accept cards or mobile payments. In nearby Guiyang, however, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants directly inside the temple grounds, but there are many local restaurants in Guiyang serving traditional Guizhou cuisine, such as rice noodles and spicy dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Guiyang offers vegetarian and vegan options at several local restaurants, particularly in the city center. Halal food options are also available in select restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a variety of hotels in Guiyang, from budget accommodations to more luxurious options like the Novotel Guiyang or Guiyang East Hotel.
• There are also smaller guesthouses in the area near the temple for those looking for a more local experience.

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

• The Qingyan Ancient Town, known for its historical architecture and old-world charm.
• Huaxi Scenic Area, famous for its natural beauty, parks, and waterfalls.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the temple, but you can find local handicrafts, such as ethnic textiles, bamboo products, and tea in Guiyang city.

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

• You can take a taxi or bus back to Guiyang city to continue your trip to other attractions like Qingyan Ancient Town or Huaxi Scenic Area.
• If you're traveling further, taxis or buses can connect you to major transportation hubs like the Guiyang Railway Station or the airport.