A Jin Dynasty Artistic Gem ~ The Nine-Star Heavenly Palace Ceiling of Yingxian Jingtu Temple
by Alden Oberbrunner
Mar 3, 2025
A Complete Guide to Gansu's "Mystical Paradise" Jingtu Temple! A Day Trip of Zen with Thousand-Year-Old Temple + Natural Buddha Light
📌 Trip Highlights
1️⃣ Journey Through Red Walls and Golden Roofs for Traditional Chinese Photos
Visit Tianshui's Jingtu Temple, where red walls and brown tiles with ornate beams gleam golden in the autumn sun. The layered eaves and dougong brackets create perfect backdrops for classical-style photos! The main hall complex, built into the mountainside, offers panoramic views of the "Lotus Treasure Land" embraced by mountains, where Zen and scenic beauty merge.
2️⃣ Discover the "Natural Buddha Head" Wonder
A giant rock on the back mountain resembles a benevolent Buddha face, known as the "Natural Buddha." When shrouded in mist, it appears like a divine manifestation - the temple's iconic wonder! With ancient pines and bamboo as backdrop, every shot captures ethereal beauty.
3️⃣ Listen to the "Jingtu Pine Waves" for Soul-Healing
One of the eight scenic spots of ancient Qinzhou! Walk among pine trees as mountain breezes create waves of rustling sounds. Close your eyes and listen to nature's melody, accompanied by distant temple bells, instantly calming your spirit.
4️⃣ Combine with Maijishan for Double Cultural Experience
Only 20 minutes drive from Maijishan Grottoes! Explore grotto art in the morning, immerse in Jingtu Temple's Zen atmosphere in the afternoon - visit two Silk Road treasures in one day.
🏨 Recommended Accommodation
▪️ Maijishan Hot Spring Hotel: Relax in selenium-rich hot springs with mountain views (30 minutes drive from temple).
▪️ Downtown Boutique Guesthouses: Walking distance to Fuxi Temple, perfect for cultural tours.
🍜 Must-Try Food
Tianshui Guagua (buckwheat jelly), Ranran (spicy potato slices), Jiangshui noodles, and temple's vegetarian dishes for a healthy, zen experience.
🚗 Transportation Tips
Take Bus 37 from Tianshui Railway Station; or drive directly to "Tianshui Jingtu Temple" with free parking. No entrance fee. Arrive before 8am to avoid crowds.
🌿 Final Note
"From red walls to natural Buddha light, here lies a more secluded zen experience than Maijishan! Share your photos in comments @me - let's see who captures the most soothing pine waves?"
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Post by Rodriguez Gregory Greg | Apr 21, 2025














