Huating Temple
A millennium-old monastery deep in the Western Hills, first built during the Zhenguan era of the Tang and renamed Huating Chan Temple in the Song; in modern times it was revived under the great master Monk Xuyun, becoming the foremost Chan (Zen) monastery in central Yunnan
Visitor info
- Opening hours
- 08:30-17:30
- Ticket
- Included in Western Hills admission
Price is indicative — final quote on inquiry.
A millennium-old monastery deep in the Western Hills, first built during the Zhenguan era of the Tang and renamed Huating Chan Temple in the Song; in modern times it was revived under the great master Monk Xuyun, becoming the foremost Chan (Zen) monastery in central Yunnan. The temple backs onto the mountain and faces the "sea" of Dianchi; in the Hall of Heavenly Kings the smiling Maitreya Buddha greets visitors, while inside the Great Buddha Hall 500 painted arhat statues line the four walls; ancient cypresses and ginkgos before the hall echo the Zen mood of "empty woods after rain". The temple's vegetarian food and tea are well regarded; the classic Western Hills route is to rest and worship here halfway up the climb, then take the cable car up to the Dragon Gate.
Getting there: Within the Western Hills scenic area
Photos
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