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Visit the temple to admire its historical architecture, enjoy peaceful walks through the surrounding gardens, and learn about the life and legacy of Bao Zheng, a famous judge known for his fairness and integrity.
The Bao Zheng Temple, located on the Xianghuadun Islet in the Baohe River outside the south gate of Hefei City, Anhui Province, forms the main architectural complex of Baohe Park. According to the Luzhou Prefecture Chronicle, " Xianghuadun, located in the moat outside the southeast city gate, was where Bao Zheng studied during his youth. Originally a shrine, it was surrounded by dense layers of cattails, fish and ducks roamed, a long bridge led across, and bamboo trees cast a shadow."
The Bao Zheng Temple commemorates Bao Wenzheng, a scholar of the Longtu Pavilion, Minister of Rites, and prefect of Kaifeng during the Song Dynasty. The temple consists of a three-sided courtyard with white walls and green tiles. The main building is the Bao Zheng Xiantang, where a tall statue of Bao Zheng sits. A black stone carving of Bao Zheng is embedded in the wall, showcasing his majestic and upright character, embodying the awe-inspiring and righteous character of the " iron-faced and impartial " Bao Zheng.
The shrine is surrounded by water, with its main entrance facing south. The west corridor displays the Bao family genealogy, relics, Bao Gong's family precepts, his calligraphy, and related historical records. The shrine is surrounded by the Bao River, where legend has it that red lotus roots grow there, so fine that when cut, they remain without a single thread. This tale of " Mr. Bao's integrity, selflessness, and compassion for all " has become a legendary legend.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
20 yuan/person
8:00-18:00
Bao Zheng Temple is dedicated to Bao Zheng, a well-known and respected official from the Song Dynasty. He is celebrated for his impartiality and justice, making the temple a place of historical importance and reverence.
The temple is located in Hefei, Anhui. You can easily get there by taxi or bus from the Hefei city center. The nearest metro station is about a 15-minute walk from the temple.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
The entrance fee is around 20 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and there is no online ticketing system currently available.
Booking in advance is not required. It is best to buy tickets on-site, but during peak seasons or holidays, arriving early is recommended to avoid long queues.
You can fully explore the temple in about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on how much time you spend reading about Bao Zheng’s history and admiring the architecture.
The main highlights include the temple hall, Bao Zheng's statue, and the surrounding gardens. Be sure to visit the memorial hall dedicated to his life and work.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. There are no audio guides, but the guides provide in-depth explanations of the temple's history and significance.
The best photography spots include the temple’s main hall, the surrounding gardens, and the statue of Bao Zheng. The temple’s architecture also provides a scenic backdrop for photos.
Start by entering through the main gate, explore the main hall, then move to the memorial hall and the surrounding gardens for a peaceful walk. Don't miss the statue of Bao Zheng near the temple's rear.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, the temple is beautifully lit in the evening, providing a serene atmosphere for evening visits.
The temple can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially outside of the summer season.
The temple has toilets and a small shop selling souvenirs. There are no major restaurants or cafes inside, but there are food options outside the temple grounds.
The temple is generally accessible for elderly and children, but there are some stairs and uneven paths. It may be a bit difficult for visitors with disabilities, as the temple is not fully wheelchair accessible.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are also available. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or donations.
There are several local restaurants nearby offering traditional Anhui cuisine. Some cafes can also be found around the temple’s area, serving light refreshments and snacks.
Nearby restaurants offer vegetarian options, and some serve halal food. It is recommended to ask the staff for specific dietary preferences.
There are a few hotels near the temple, such as Hefei Shangri-La Hotel and Hefei Huayi Hotel, providing comfortable accommodations for visitors.
Nearby attractions include the Anhui Museum, Swan Lake, and the Hefei Botanical Garden. These are all within a short drive from Bao Zheng Temple and can be easily combined in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the temple selling small trinkets, religious items, and souvenirs related to Bao Zheng, such as statues and traditional Anhui handicrafts.
Taxis and public buses are the most convenient options for continuing your trip after visiting the temple. The Hefei metro system is also nearby, providing easy access to other parts of the city.
