Check out the giant Ming Dynasty clay sculptures in Lantian, Xi'an.
by WanderlustVoyager123
Nov 1, 2024
In Xi'an, there's a niche attraction you shouldn't miss—Shuilu'an Temple. It's like a forgotten pearl, radiating a unique charm.
All the Basic Information You Need
- 📍Location: Shuilu'an Temple, Lantian County, Xi'an. It's conveniently located and easy to find, despite being a niche attraction.
- 🎫Tickets: Completely free, and no reservation is required. Embark on this cultural exploration with ease.
- ⏰Opening Hours: 9:00am - 4:30pm. Reasonable opening hours allow visitors to explore at their own pace.
- 🚗Transportation Guide:
- By Car: Only a 1-hour drive from Xi'an. Park on the roadside; there's no need to enter the paid parking lot inside, saving you some parking fees.
- By Taxi: Around CNY 100+ from the city center. Relatively expensive, but convenient and direct.
- Subway + Taxi: Take the subway to Fangzhicheng Station, then take a taxi to the temple. The taxi fare is CNY 60-70, offering better value and a different travel experience.
- 📷Photography Notice: Photography is allowed inside Shuilu'an Temple, but flash photography is prohibited. Let's visit respectfully and protect this precious cultural heritage.
The Journey Begins: Drawn by the Charm of Black Myth: Wukong
Initially, I came to Shuilu'an Temple because it was a filming location for *Black Myth: Wukong*. When I arrived, I was truly amazed by the atmosphere! The surrounding shops were all selling *Black Myth: Wukong* merchandise, and there was a giant black monkey statue at the entrance. It felt like stepping into a massive *Black Myth: Wukong* merchandise hub, instantly exciting me as a game fan.
A Stunning Core: The Splendor of "China's Second Dunhuang"
However, Shuilu'an Temple's charm extends far beyond this. As a cultural relic preservation site, it holds immense historical and cultural value. The Zhusheng Shuilu Hall, located at the innermost part of the temple, houses over 3,700 painted sculptures, despite its compact size. These sculptures are like a giant comic strip, vividly depicting the life of Sakyamuni. The exquisite craftsmanship evokes admiration for the skills of ancient artisans. These painted sculptures are hailed as "China's Second Dunhuang," and it's no exaggeration. They could even be considered a substitute for Dunhuang. Each sculpture embodies the wisdom and ingenuity of the ancients, their features seemingly narrating stories of the past. The style is somewhat reminiscent of Xiaoxitian. For those who appreciate ancient architecture and painted sculpture art, it's a true visual feast.
Friendly Advice: Enhance Your Experience with a Guided Tour
Guided tours are available at the entrance. The fee for a human guide is CNY 100. When visiting such a historically rich ancient building, a guided tour is highly recommended. It's the best way to understand the stories behind Shuilu'an Temple, appreciate its cultural significance, and make the most of your visit.
Post by BeeSOUL | Mar 19, 2025





















