Cultural ToursLocated in Qingyang District, Chengdu, Qingyang Palace is the crown jewel of China’s cultural heritage of Taoism and also known as the “No. 1 Taoist Temple in Western Sichuan”. It has its origins since the Zhou Dynasty. Although majority of the buildings that exist today were built during the Qing Dynasty, this Taoist temple has sustained a century of tradition and style of building. There you can relax, learn the ancient Taoist tradition, and bask in the serene atmosphere of this sacred place.
Main Attractions
Mountain Gate
As you approach Qingyang Palace, you will immediately see the magnificent mountain gate. The mountain gate is decorated with beautifully carved dragons and other auspicious patterns, which is a symbol of the important status of this Taoist temple. The golden “Qingyang Palace” plaque above the gate was inscribed by An Hongde, an official in the Qing Dynasty. The powerful calligraphy not only adds beauty to the mountain gate, but also shows the long history of the Taoist temple.
Lingzu Hall
When you enter the temple, you will come to the Lingzu Hall rebuilt in the time of Emperor Guangxu. The two-story hall has the statue of “Xiantian Wang Lingzushi”, who is said to be a powerful Taoist patron saint who protects the temple from evil. Remember not to take a picture here, as it is prohibited, so be patient and take in its exquisite architectural decorations and statues.
Hunyuan Hall
The Hunyuan Hall has 26 stone pillars and 2 wooden pillars, which are carved with fine patterns of deer, phoenix, and lions. In the center of the hall is the statue of “Hunyuan Patriarch”, who symbolizes the origin of the universe in Taoist beliefs.
Bagua Pavilion
The Bagua Pavilion is one of the most iconic attractions of Qingyang Palace. Its octagonal shape and 80 beautifully carved flying dragons, a hotspot for photographers. It was so named after the “eight trigrams” of the Taoist philosophy. Inside the pavilion is a statue of Laozi riding a green bull, a famous image in Chinese Taoist art. You can feel here the wisdom and mystery of the ancient Taoist philosophy.
Sanqing Hall
The Sanqing Hall is the core building of Qingyang Palace where the “Three Pure Ones” with highest dignity in Taoism are placed. However, the real attraction to tourists is the two bronze sheep in front of the hall. The left bronze sheep with the characteristics of the twelve zodiac animals is the most popular. It is told that rubbing this bronze sheep can make one healthy and bring good fortune. Lots of people visit here daily, wishing to rub the bronze sheep and make a wish.
Doumu Temple
Doumu Temple was built in the Ming Dynasty and is devoted to Doumu Yuanjun in Taoism. There is a statue of her with three eyes, four heads and eight arms, with each arm grasping another magic instrument. The temple also has statues of the Southern Dipper Star God and the Northern Dipper Star God, who control people’s fate in Taoist beliefs.
Zijintai
Zijintai, also known as Tangwang Hall, was built during the reign of Emperor Kangxi. The hall contains images of successive Tang Dynasty emperors, indicating the intimate relationship between Taoism and imperial authority in Chinese history. There is a figure of Laozi sitting on a green bull upstairs as well, providing people with the chance to enjoy the figure of this Taoist sage from another angle.
Other Experiences
Tea Tasting in a Teahouse
After traveling to the various structures, you can relax at the teahouse inside the Qingyang Palace. For about 15 RMB per person, you can drink regular Sichuan tea, like jasmine tea. Some teahouses even have “Dao Tea” performances, where waiters serve tea in long-mouthed copper kettles in amazing ways. You may also bring your own tea and indulge in the relaxing atmosphere while talking to friends or other tourists.
Trying Vegetarian Food
If you visit around lunchtime, do not miss the veg restaurant inside the temple. It opens at 11:30 am and costs only RMB15 for a decent value 3-4 course vegetarian meal set. Buy your meal ticket from the counter and then sit. Once you have finished eating, do wipe the table clean as a way to show respect to the temple.
Transportation Guide
Metro Travel
It is the most accessible way to travel to Qingyang Palace via the subway. Take Metro Line 5 and get off at Qingyang Palace Station. It takes only 5 minutes of walking from the subway station to the entrance of the Taoist temple. The Chengdu subway operates from 6 am to 11 pm. The fare for one-way ticket is usually between 2 and 5 RMB depending on the starting station.
Public Transportation
Several bus routes reach Qingyang Temple. Buses 11, 19, 27, 34, 42 and 58 all have stops close to the temple. Disembark the bus and then just follow the directions or ask the locals and you’re there. Just note, however, that taking the bus will take longer when it’s rush hour.
Ride-hailing App or Taxi
Ride-hailing or taxi are also fine options. If you ride a taxi, have the driver turn on the meter first before you get in, or negotiate a price before you get in. From the city center, the trip is about 20-30 minutes and costs about 20-40 RMB. On Didi, you can just order a ride, see an estimated price before you ride, and see the driver’s route in real time on the app.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Ticket Information
Full price ticket: The standard ticket price is RMB 10 for an adult, and you can access all of the primary areas of the Taoist temple with the ticket.
Discounted ticket: Half-price tickets for full-time students with a valid student card, which is a reasonable offer for budget travelers.
Free admission: Free admission can be given to children under 1.2 meters tall, senior citizens over 60 years old, active military personnel, disabled individuals, and emergency management personnel. Kindly provide a valid identification or equivalent certification document.
Opening Hours
Qingyang Palace is open to visitors from 8am to 5pm daily. To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit, it is best to visit in the morning or late afternoon, especially on weekends and holidays.
Tips for Tourists
Buy tickets in advance: Qingyang Palace can be very crowded during weekends or holidays. To save time, it is recommended to buy tickets online in advance through apps such as Ctrip and Qunar.
Dress appropriately: When visiting, do not wear overly revealing or casual clothing. Neat clothing shows your respect for the Taoist traditions here.
Best season: The best time to visit Qingyang Palace is spring and autumn. The weather is pleasant then, and the flowers, trees and plants surrounding the Taoist temple also contribute to the beauty. Avoid major Chinese holidays like National Day and the Spring Festival, as there are just too many tourists during that period.
Language Help: If you need assistance, here are some useful Chinese phrases: “Where is the toilet?” → “Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?”; “How much is this?” → “Zhège duōshǎo qián?”
Conclusion
Visiting Qingyang Palace is as if taking you back to a long history of ancient Chinese civilization. From the huge construction, imposing statues to the peaceful tea-tasting experience, every element of the Taoist temple introduces you to the unique beauty of Taoist culture. You are either a history buff or an explorer who yearns to learn something different; Qingyang Palace will never make you forget the experience. For other tourist attractions in Chengdu, feel free to contact us. Chengdu International Travel Agency can provide you with specially designed routes and charter service. We look forward to your contact.
