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Visit the Land Temple to experience its cultural significance and historical importance. Take a peaceful walk around the temple grounds and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Explore the architecture and the surrounding peaceful atmosphere of the temple complex.
Land temples, also known as community temples, enshrine the smallest Taoist deity, the God of Land. The custom of offering sacrifices to the God of Land existed in ancient China. A community is the smallest local administrative unit. The annotation to the "Sacrificial Laws" chapter of the "Book of Rites" states: "When officials below the rank of senior official, including commoners, gather in groups of at least 100 households, they may establish a community." The ancients revered heaven and cherished the earth. Since the land produces crops, people offered sacrifices to the God of Land in gratitude for its gifts. Community temples, as places where people collectively worshipped the God of Land, naturally flourished.
There are many folk legends about the origin of the God of Land. A typical one is that the God of Land's real name was Zhang Fude. He was intelligent since childhood, honest and upright when he was an official, sympathetic to the suffering of the people, and did many good deeds. He died at the age of 102. Three days after his death, his appearance remained unchanged. A poor family built a stone house with four large stones to worship him. Not long after, they became rich. The people believed that it was the blessing of God, so they built a temple and made a golden statue to worship him. Therefore, the God of Land is also regarded as the God of Wealth and Fortune.
At the entrance of East Street is the Earth God Temple. The compassionate Guanyin Bodhisattva is enshrined in the front, and the Earth Gods and Goddesses are behind. Incense smoke floats in every corner of East Street.
With a subtropical monsoon climate, the land temple is a unique place for folks to pray and make wishes, and is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Land God, burning incense, Anhui specialties;
It is recommended to play for 1 hour
free
Open all day
The Land Temple, also known as the "Land God Temple," is a significant religious and cultural site in Anhui. It is dedicated to the worship of the Land God, a figure revered in Chinese folk religion. The temple holds historical importance as a place of worship for agricultural prosperity and community well-being.
The Land Temple is located in Hefei, Anhui. It can be reached by taxi or private car. Public transportation options are limited, so taking a taxi or driving is the most convenient way to reach the site.
The temple is generally open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.
The entrance fee is usually free, but donations are accepted. For special exhibitions or events, there might be a small ticket charge. Tickets can be purchased on-site if required.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general visits. However, if you're attending a special event or tour, booking at least one day in advance is recommended.
A visit to the Land Temple can be fully explored in about 1-2 hours, depending on whether you want to take your time to appreciate the surroundings and architecture.
The must-see highlights include the main prayer hall, the statue of the Land God, and the beautiful temple grounds. Don't miss the peaceful surroundings that provide a sense of tranquility and spiritual reflection.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. If you require an English-speaking guide, it's best to arrange one in advance. Audio guides may also be available, but availability in languages other than Mandarin may vary.
The best viewpoints are around the temple’s main hall and the surrounding gardens. Capture the serene landscape and the beautiful architecture from different angles to create stunning photos, especially during the early morning or late afternoon light.
Start by entering the temple grounds and visiting the main hall. Take some time to appreciate the surroundings and the serenity of the site. Afterward, explore the temple gardens and the nearby areas that offer great views for photography.
Night visits are not typically available at the Land Temple, as it primarily operates during daylight hours. Special events or ceremonies may occur, but it’s best to check for specific schedules in advance.
The temple tends to be less crowded during weekdays, especially in the early mornings. Weekends and public holidays may see more visitors, so it’s best to visit during off-peak times for a quieter experience.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available on-site. There are no large food outlets, but small local vendors may offer refreshments. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks if needed.
The temple is generally accessible, but some areas may have stairs or uneven paths, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy exploring the grounds, and the peaceful atmosphere is suitable for families.
Cash is commonly used, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted. It's recommended to carry some cash, especially if you're making small donations or purchasing souvenirs.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly at the temple. However, nearby areas in Hefei offer many dining options, including local Chinese restaurants serving Anhui cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries in Hefei. Halal food options may be limited, but it’s worth checking nearby restaurants for availability.
There are several hotels in Hefei, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. It's best to stay in the city center for convenience and accessibility to the temple and other attractions.
Other nearby attractions include the Hefei Swan Lake, the Anhui Museum, and the Baohe Park. These landmarks are easily reachable and can be included in a day trip around the city.
Small souvenir shops are available near the temple selling religious artifacts, traditional Chinese crafts, and incense. Typical souvenirs include miniature statues and local handicrafts.
The best transportation options to continue your trip include taxis, buses, or private cars. The city center is easily accessible, and from there, you can continue exploring Hefei or head to other nearby attractions.
