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At Zhongyuan Zen Temple, you can:
Zhongyuan Temple, also known as " Zhongyuan Cave ," is located at the entrance of Shixi Cave. A stone lintel inscribed with the words " The First Cave Heaven in Guizhou " from the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty is on top. Zhongyuan Temple is a Buddhist sanctuary within the Qinglong Cave ancient architectural complex, where three religions coexist. It comprises a mountain gate, a Great Buddha Hall, a Sutra Library, a Star-gazing Tower, a single-pillar pavilion, a cave entrance archway, and a hexagonal pavilion.
The most spectacular of these buildings is the Zhongyuan Cave, located on the cliff to the left and rear of the Great Buddha Hall. The cave has three entrances: north, west, and south. Inside, there are numerous cliff carvings and steles of poetry inscribed by previous generations.
Inside the west cave entrance, there is a stone bed where Zhang Sanfeng, a famous Taoist priest from Wudang Mountain, is said to have practiced while traveling. Above the stone bed, there are stalactites that look like Zhang Sanfeng's " relics " when he left, such as his bag, umbrella, and straw sandals. They are so lifelike that it is breathtaking.
Suitable for all seasons
Suggested playing time: about half an hour
Tickets are included in the ticket price for Qinglong Cave Scenic Area
Zhongyuan Zen Temple is an important Buddhist temple with a long history, known for its connection to the Zen Buddhist tradition. It serves as a spiritual center for meditation, prayer, and Buddhist teachings, drawing visitors seeking peace and enlightenment.
Zhongyuan Zen Temple is located in Southeast Guizhou. It is best accessed by taxi or private transport. There are limited public transportation options, so arranging a taxi or renting a car is recommended.
The temple is open daily from early morning to late afternoon. The best time to visit is early morning for the peaceful atmosphere or during Buddhist holidays when special ceremonies are held.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Zhongyuan Zen Temple. Donations are appreciated, and visitors can give offerings directly at the temple.
No tickets need to be booked in advance, but it is recommended to check for any special events or ceremonies that may require prior arrangements.
It typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore the temple, depending on your interest in meditation sessions and the time spent in prayer halls.
The must-see areas include the main hall for prayer, the Zen meditation hall, the ancient pagoda, and the peaceful gardens surrounding the temple.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some Buddhist monks may offer insights into the temple’s history and Zen practices. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese, but English options are limited.
Great photography spots include the temple’s main hall with its ornate decorations, the serene gardens, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from higher points of the temple grounds.
Start by visiting the main hall, followed by a walk through the meditation gardens. You can then explore the smaller prayer halls and end by visiting the pagoda and reflecting on the surroundings.
The temple does not typically offer night visits or light shows. The temple is best visited during the day when you can fully experience the peaceful environment.
Weekdays, particularly early mornings, tend to be less crowded. Weekends and Buddhist holidays can attract more visitors, especially during ceremonies.
There are basic facilities including toilets and rest areas. A small shop may sell Buddhist-themed souvenirs and snacks. However, there are limited food options within the temple itself.
The temple grounds may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven paths and steps. It’s more suitable for those who can walk with ease, although children will enjoy the peaceful environment.
Cash is preferred for donations. Mobile payments may be accepted at some shops, but it’s best to carry cash when visiting the temple.
There are no restaurants directly inside the temple, but nearby areas offer simple local eateries where you can try regional Guizhou dishes.
Vegetarian food options are available, as many local eateries cater to Buddhist dietary preferences. Halal options may be harder to find in the area.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in the area. For more luxurious options, visitors can stay in Guiyang, which is about an hour’s drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Qingyan Ancient Town, Fanjing Mountain, and the Xiangxi River. These sites offer historical and natural experiences that complement the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
The temple has a small souvenir shop where visitors can purchase Buddhist prayer beads, incense, and other spiritual items. Local crafts may also be available nearby.
The best transportation options are by taxi or private vehicle. There are limited public transport options, so arranging a taxi or renting a car is advisable to continue your trip to nearby attractions or return to the city.
