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Mingjiao Temple, located next to Xiaoyaojin Park in Hefei, Anhui Province, China, was originally named Tiefo Temple and was built during the Liang Dynasty of the Southern Dynasties. It boasts a history of over 1,400 years. A century after its construction, it was destroyed by war. With the passing of dynasties and numerous wars, Mingjiao Temple experienced repeated rises and falls, ultimately being completely destroyed by fire during the fifth year of Emperor Xianfeng's reign in the Qing Dynasty. The current main structure of Mingjiao Temple dates back to the reign of Emperor Guangxu.
Mingjiao Temple, rebuilt from Jiaonutai, was originally built during the Liang Dynasty (1644-1911). Extant buildings include the mountain gate, Heavenly King Hall, and Main Hall. The " Guixi Tomb ," located west of Tingsong Pavilion , is named for the mythical burials of a tortoise and a chicken.
Mingjiao Temple boasts a long history and magnificent architecture. During the Qing Dynasty, it was the most impressive temple in Hefei. Extant buildings include the mountain gate, Heavenly King Hall, Main Hall, Ksitigarbha Hall, guest hall, and dormitories.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
10 yuan/person
6:30-18:00
Mingjiao Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple in Hefei, known for its cultural and historical importance. It has been a site for religious activities for centuries and serves as a place of worship and learning in the Buddhist tradition.
The temple is located in the eastern part of Hefei. You can reach it by taking a taxi from the city center (about 15 minutes). Public buses also have routes that stop nearby, and it's possible to walk from certain parts of Hefei, depending on your location.
The temple is open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon, as the temple is less crowded and the weather is cooler during these times.
There is a small entrance fee, generally around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple's entrance.
Tickets do not need to be booked in advance unless you are visiting during a special event or holiday. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds.
A visit to Mingjiao Temple typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in the history and religious aspects of the temple.
Guided tours are available upon request, and they are typically conducted in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be available, depending on the season and visitor demand.
Start by entering through the main gates and walking through the temple grounds, visiting the main hall. Afterward, take a stroll through the temple’s gardens and explore the historic inscriptions. If available, consider attending a short prayer or meditation session.
Night visits are generally not offered, but the temple sometimes hosts special events during festivals or holidays. These events may include night prayers or cultural performances, so it's worth checking in advance.
The temple can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially before noon.
The temple has clean toilets and rest areas. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and Buddhist items. Food and water are not always available inside, so it's advisable to bring your own or stop by a nearby store before visiting.
The temple is accessible for elderly visitors, though some areas may involve steps or uneven terrain. Disabled visitors may find parts of the temple less accessible due to these factors. It’s advisable to contact the temple in advance for any specific accessibility concerns.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are also widely accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used in this area.
Vegetarian food is widely available, especially in local eateries catering to Buddhist practices. Halal and vegan options may be more limited but are available at certain restaurants around the area.
There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist artifacts, statues, and incense. Local handicrafts may also be available.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or local bus to nearby attractions or back to the city center. Public transportation is convenient, but taxis may be more comfortable for longer trips.
