Qinglong Temple - a large building with a lot of statues on top of it
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Qinglong Temple

4.3
·89 reviews·Xi'An, China

Ancient Buddhist temple famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring and rich historical significance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-March

Peak cherry blossom season

CrowdHigh
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Qinglong Temple - a large building with a lot of statues on top of it

Qinglong Temple

Best Time

Mid-March

Peak cherry blossom season

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient Buddhist temple famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring and rich historical significance.

4.3
(89 reviews)

"A hidden gem in Xi'an, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌸 Cherry Blossom Timing

Aim for mid-March for the best cherry blossoms; early April can be past peak.

⏰ Arrive Early

Beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning to enjoy the temple's tranquility.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cherry Blossom Spectacle

Cherry Blossom Spectacle

Temple grounds

Hundreds of cherry trees burst into bloom, painting the temple grounds in vibrant pinks and whites.

Esoteric Buddhist Carvings

Esoteric Buddhist Carvings

Original foundation stones

Ancient 582 AD foundation stones reveal intricate carvings predating Tibetan Buddhist influence.

Sandalwood Buddha Statue

Sandalwood Buddha Statue

Relic Museum

Witness the unique sandalwood Buddha statue that secretes resin droplets on Buddha's birthday.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Cherry Blossoms

Visit Qinglong Temple in mid-March for peak cherry blossom season. Early April can mean wilting flowers due to warmer weather. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere before the main rush.

Explore Beyond the Main Hall

Qinglong Temple is more than just its main structures. Discover the relic museum for historical insights and wander through the extensive green areas. The temple grounds are vast, offering a peaceful escape.

Best Times

When
Mid-March
Why
Peak cherry blossom season
Crowd
High
When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
April 8th (Buddha's Birthday)
Why
See the sandalwood Buddha's resin
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This temple is freaking amazing. 10/10 will go again #taoism #taoisttemple #女娲 #greatflood #wukong #journeytothewest #deity #taoistpriest
@quanzhentaoist
2.1K likes • 50.4K views

🌸 Cherry Blossom Timing

Aim for mid-March for the best cherry blossoms; early April can be past peak. Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early

Beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning to enjoy the temple's tranquility. Reddit

This 4-kilometer-long road with 24 stunning bends, built along a 60-degree slope on the mountains in Qinglong, southwest China's Guizhou Province, stands as an outstanding example of China's construction of perilous mountain roads in history.
@peoplesdaily
799 likes • 8.8K views
QINGLONG WATERFALLS 🍃🍀 Location: 33643, Taoyuan City, Fuxing District, 流霞路50號 -Malapit lang sya sa Wulai Waterfalls. #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #qinglongvalleyresort #waterfalls #qinglongwaterfall #foryoupage #contentonly #fypシ゚viral
@wielasaavedra
712 likes • 53.3K views

🏛️ Explore the Museum

Don't miss the relic museum for historical insights and unique artifacts. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Grounds

The temple boasts large green areas; take time to explore beyond the main halls. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🌸 Cherry Blossom Timing

Aim for mid-March for the best cherry blossoms; early April can be past peak. Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early

Beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning to enjoy the temple's tranquility. Reddit

🏛️ Explore the Museum

Don't miss the relic museum for historical insights and unique artifacts. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Grounds

The temple boasts large green areas; take time to explore beyond the main halls. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(89 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Qinglong Temple for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring and its rich historical significance, noting the ancient carvings and relic museum. The free admission and peaceful atmosphere, especially when visited early, are also frequently highlighted. Some visitors express disappointment if they arrive in early April and miss the peak bloom.

"I was there quiet early in the morning as a habit to visit the temples early but the temple didn't open yet. I spent time at the outside area of the temple to see the daily life of the city and people. The temple was old and very large. The architecture was very unique. There was temple and museum area where people can learn a lot about the history, the architecture and other stuff. There were also a lot of green areas. Although there were a lot of people there, the temple remained quiet and peaceful."

Giang Le

"The original 582 AD foundation stones display Esoteric Buddhist carvings predating Tibetan influence. The sandalwood Buddha statue secretes resin droplets every April 8th (Buddha's birthday). Monks maintain the 1,200-year-old recipe for black ink used in scripture copying."

Arman Khachatryan

"Very beautiful scenic spot, a hidden gem for tourists in Xian. Best in mid-March to April when hundreds of Sakura trees blossom!"

J C

What People Like

Beautiful cherry blossoms
Rich history and carvings
Free admission

What People Dislike

Missed peak blossom season

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Qinglong Temple is located in Xi'an, China. You can reach it by public transport, including buses and metro lines that stop nearby. Taxis are also readily available. TikTok mentions a scenic road in Qinglong, Guizhou, which is a different location, so ensure you are heading to the correct Qinglong Temple in Xi'an.

Yes, Qinglong Temple is well-served by public transport in Xi'an. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date bus and metro routes. TikTok highlights impressive road construction in a different Qinglong, so focus on Xi'an's transit for this temple.

Taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service is a convenient option from downtown Xi'an. Alternatively, the metro system offers an affordable and efficient way to reach the vicinity of the temple. TikTok describes a mountain road in a different Qinglong, so this advice pertains to the Xi'an temple.

Parking availability can vary, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom time. It's advisable to check with local authorities or use public transport if possible. TikTok refers to a road in Qinglong, Guizhou, not the temple in Xi'an.

While Qinglong Temple is a significant attraction in Xi'an, it's best experienced as part of a visit to the city itself, rather than a standalone day trip from distant locations. TikTok describes a road in Qinglong, Guizhou, which is a separate destination.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Qinglong Temple is generally free of charge, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. Reddit

The temple typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to confirm exact hours closer to your visit, especially during holidays. Reddit

As admission is usually free, advance booking is not required. However, during peak cherry blossom season, arriving early is recommended to avoid large crowds. Reddit

Standard temple etiquette applies. Visitors are expected to dress respectfully and maintain a quiet demeanor within the temple grounds. Reddit

The relic museum is typically included with the general access to Qinglong Temple, meaning no separate ticket is usually needed. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The cherry blossom trees in bloom are a photographer's dream, especially in mid-March. The intricate architectural details of the temple and the ancient foundation stones also offer unique photo opportunities. TikTokReddit

Photography rules can vary within museum exhibits. It's best to look for signage or ask staff for guidance on whether cameras are permitted inside the relic museum. Reddit

Early morning offers soft, diffused light and fewer people, making it ideal for capturing the temple's beauty. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in and around religious sites and historical landmarks. It's highly recommended to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. TikTok shows temple interiors, not drone shots.

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide shots of the temple and details. A prime lens can be useful for low-light conditions inside or for portraits amidst the blossoms. TikTokReddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Explore the temple's unique architecture, visit the relic museum to learn about its history, and admire the cherry blossoms (in season). The grounds also feature peaceful green spaces for relaxation. Reddit

To fully appreciate the temple, museum, and grounds, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If visiting during cherry blossom season, you might want to spend more time enjoying the scenery. Reddit

While it can get crowded during peak times, the temple's large grounds offer many quiet corners. Visiting early in the morning significantly enhances the peaceful experience. Reddit

Founded in 582 AD, Qinglong Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China and has historical ties to Esoteric Buddhism. It also played a role in the legend of Yuan Tiao fixing the sky. TikTokReddit

Information on official guided tours can be limited. However, you can often find local guides in Xi'an who can provide insights into the temple's history and significance. Reddit

🎫 🌸 Cherry Blossom Season

The prime time for cherry blossoms at Qinglong Temple is typically mid-March. Early April can see some flowers starting to wither due to warmer weather. Reddit

Cherry blossom season is the busiest time at Qinglong Temple, attracting large numbers of visitors. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid the peak crowds. Reddit

The temple is known for its numerous cherry trees, creating a stunning display of pink and white blossoms. Specific varieties may vary, but the overall effect is breathtaking. Reddit

While not always formally advertised, the blooming of the cherry blossoms itself is the main event. Local activities might occur, but the natural spectacle is the primary draw. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Dress in layers as the weather in March can be unpredictable. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Qinglong Temple offers a blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty that can appeal to families. The expansive green areas provide space for children to move around, and the visual spectacle of the cherry blossoms (if visiting in season) is captivating for all ages. Reddit The relic museum can offer interesting historical insights, though younger children might find it less engaging than the outdoor spaces. Reddit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays to manage crowds. Bringing snacks and water is advisable, as dining options directly within the temple might be limited. The peaceful atmosphere of the temple grounds can also provide a welcome respite for families looking for a calm cultural experience. Reddit

🌸 Cherry Blossom Enthusiasts

For those specifically seeking the iconic cherry blossoms, Qinglong Temple is a must-visit. The temple is renowned for its hundreds of cherry trees that create a stunning floral display, typically peaking in mid-March. Reddit To maximize your experience, plan your visit for this period and aim for early mornings to capture the best photos and enjoy the scenery with fewer people. Reddit

Be aware that this is the temple's busiest season, so expect higher crowd levels. While early April can still offer some blossoms, they may be past their prime. Reddit Embrace the vibrant atmosphere, but also seek out quieter spots within the temple grounds to fully appreciate the natural beauty. Reddit

🏛️ History & Culture Buffs

Qinglong Temple is a treasure trove for history and culture enthusiasts. Its origins date back to 582 AD, making it one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China, with significant Esoteric Buddhist connections. Reddit The ancient foundation stones featuring pre-Tibetan Buddhist carvings are a highlight, offering a tangible link to the past. Reddit

The relic museum provides deeper insights into the temple's history, architecture, and religious practices, including the unique tradition of the sandalwood Buddha statue. Reddit Exploring the temple grounds allows for an appreciation of its architectural style and the preservation of ancient traditions, such as the ink-making process. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend and History of Qinglong Temple

Qinglong Temple, founded in 582 AD, boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with Esoteric Buddhism. Its original foundation stones display intricate carvings that predate significant Tibetan Buddhist influence, offering a glimpse into early Buddhist art and philosophy in China. The temple is also associated with legends, such as the tale of Yuan Tiao fixing the sky after a great flood, as hinted at in one TikTok video. TikTokReddit

Beyond its ancient roots, the temple is renowned for its unique traditions. One of the most fascinating is the sandalwood Buddha statue, which is said to secrete resin droplets every year on April 8th, Buddha's birthday. Monks also meticulously maintain a 1,200-year-old recipe for black ink used in scripture copying, preserving ancient practices. Reddit

This blend of historical significance, legendary associations, and living traditions makes Qinglong Temple a compelling destination for those interested in Chinese history, Buddhism, and cultural heritage. The architectural details and the relic museum further enrich the visitor's understanding of its past. Reddit

Experiencing the Cherry Blossoms

Qinglong Temple is perhaps most famous for its spectacular cherry blossom season, drawing visitors from far and wide. The temple grounds are adorned with hundreds of cherry trees that erupt in a breathtaking display of pink and white hues, typically in mid-March. This natural spectacle transforms the temple into a picturesque wonderland, making it a prime spot for photography and leisurely strolls. Reddit

However, timing is crucial for experiencing the blossoms at their best. While mid-March is generally ideal, warmer weather in early April can cause the flowers to start wilting and falling. Visitors are advised to aim for the earlier part of the season to catch the peak bloom. Reddit The popularity of the blossoms means the temple can become quite crowded during this period, so arriving early in the morning is a common recommendation to enjoy a more serene experience. Reddit

Beyond the visual feast, the cherry blossom season offers a unique atmosphere. The air is often filled with a delicate fragrance, and the fallen petals create a soft carpet on the pathways. It's a time when the temple's natural beauty truly shines, offering a memorable experience for all who visit. Reddit

Beyond the Temple: Surrounding Attractions

While Qinglong Temple itself is a significant attraction, it's worth noting that the name 'Qinglong' appears in various locations across China, leading to potential confusion. For instance, one TikTok video highlights a dramatic 4-kilometer-long road with 24 bends built on a 60-degree slope in Qinglong, Guizhou Province. TikTok This showcases impressive engineering feats in mountainous regions but is geographically distinct from the Qinglong Temple in Xi'an. TikTok

Another TikTok mentions Qinglong Waterfalls in Taoyuan City, Taiwan, which is also a separate destination known for its natural beauty. TikTok These examples underscore the importance of specifying the location when discussing 'Qinglong.' For visitors interested in the Xi'an Qinglong Temple, focusing on attractions within Xi'an, such as the Terracotta Army, the ancient City Wall, and the Muslim Quarter, would be more relevant for a comprehensive trip. TikTok

When planning a visit, ensure your itinerary is tailored to the specific Qinglong Temple you intend to see. If your focus is the Buddhist temple in Xi'an, research other historical and cultural sites within that city. If you're drawn to the natural landscapes mentioned in other videos, plan accordingly for those distinct regions. TikTok+1

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