Gushan Temple

Introducing Gushan Temple

Gushan Temple is located east of Chaohu City, Anhui Province, on the north side of the He-Chao-Wu Highway, atop Gushan Mountain, the hometown of Fan Zeng, the father of the emperor. Climbing the seven-story pagoda at the summit, one can see the ancient and bustling city of Chaohu at their feet, taking in the vast expanse of Chaohu Lake. The gentle mountain breeze and the misty white clouds create a sanctuary. Taiwan's Gushan Temple is located in Tianzhong Township, Changhua County, Taiwan. It is a shrine established by the Japanese during the Japanese colonial period.

Gushan Temple, originally named Fuying Temple, was built during the Ming Dynasty. The original temple was destroyed by war in the early years of liberation. In 1986, under the guidance of the late lay Buddhist Liu Guocai, after years of hard work, the temple was reforested and raised funds to restore the barren mountain. However, due to a shortage of funds and the late lay Buddhist's passing, the temple's completion was delayed. In July 1999, at the invitation of the Chaohu Buddhist Association and with the approval of the municipal government's religious affairs department, Venerable Zhiwen, formerly secretary of the Anhui Provincial Buddhist Association Office, was appointed abbot of Gushan Temple.

When Master Zhiwen took over, there were only the Main Hall (which hadn't been fully painted yet) and the Heavenly King Hall. In just four years, he built the Guanyin Hall, the Guest Hall, the Ksitigarbha Hall, the Jialan Hall, the Jade Buddha Hall, the Sutra Library, the Abbot's Building, the Dharma Hall, the Chanting Hall, and the Lecture Hall. He also demolished and rebuilt the Heavenly King Hall, renovated the dining hall, added dozens of dormitories, repainted the Main Hall, and paved the stone steps in front of the Heavenly King Hall. He also installed all the Buddha statues and purchased a large amount of furniture and daily necessities.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Guanyin Hall, Guest Hall, Ksitigarbha Hall, Jialan Hall, etc.

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Gushan Temple

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

Gushan Temple, located in Hefei, is an ancient Buddhist temple with a long history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It has served as a center for Buddhist practices and learning in the region. The temple is an important cultural and historical site in Anhui province, offering insight into traditional Chinese architecture, Buddhist art, and local customs.

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

Gushan Temple is located on Gushan Mountain in Hefei, Anhui province. It is accessible by taxi or public transport from Hefei city center. You can also walk to the temple if you're staying nearby or enjoy a leisurely hike up the mountain to reach it.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.

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

The entrance fee for Gushan Temple is typically low or free, though some areas within the temple complex, such as special halls or exhibitions, may require a small fee. Tickets can be bought onsite when you arrive.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for general visits to the temple. However, if you plan to attend any special events or festivals, it’s a good idea to check in advance, especially during busy periods like public holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take approximately 1 to 2 hours to explore the main areas of Gushan Temple, depending on your pace and interest in the surrounding gardens and halls.

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

Key highlights include the main hall with its ancient Buddhist statues, the peaceful pagodas, and the surrounding natural scenery. The temple’s garden and serene pathways are also must-see spots for relaxation and photography.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged on-site. Audio guides may be available in some languages, but it is recommended to check in advance if you need an English-speaking guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the front view of the main hall, the surrounding gardens with pagodas, and the panoramic views from Gushan Mountain, which offer beautiful vistas of the temple and the city of Hefei.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the temple complex and visit the main hall first. Then, explore the pagodas, gardens, and any special halls or exhibits. Take a stroll around the temple grounds to enjoy the natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere.

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

Night visits are not commonly offered at Gushan Temple. Special tours may be available during festivals or important cultural events, so it's worth checking the temple’s schedule if you plan to visit during those times.

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

The temple is generally not crowded on weekdays, with weekends and public holidays seeing more visitors. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available on-site. There may be some small shops selling souvenirs and local snacks around the temple entrance. However, food and water options inside the temple complex are limited.

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

The temple is relatively accessible, but some areas may have stairs or uneven paths that could be challenging for visitors with mobility difficulties. It's suitable for elderly and children who can navigate the paths, though some parts may require assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the area, especially for purchasing tickets and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants near the entrance of the temple serving traditional Anhui cuisine, such as stews and noodles. However, food options within the temple grounds are minimal.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some of the nearby restaurants, particularly those offering traditional Chinese dishes. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited, but can be found in the city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Hefei, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. Options include both international chains and local guesthouses. Staying in Hefei city center offers the most convenience for visiting Gushan Temple.

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

Nearby attractions include Baohe Park, the Hefei Swan Lake, and the Anhui Provincial Museum. These can easily be combined in a day trip if you're exploring Hefei city.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the entrance of the temple selling traditional Chinese items such as incense, tea sets, and Buddhist figurines.

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

After visiting, taxis, buses, and public transport are available to continue your journey around Hefei. The city center and other attractions can be easily reached via taxi or local transportation.