A Complete Guide to Chaozhou Qinglong Ancient Temple

Hidden amidst the bustling streets of Chaozhou's old town lies a 900-year-old "dragon palace." The Qinglong Ancient Temple is not just an ordinary temple; it's a guardian deity deeply rooted in the hearts of the Chaoshan people and a living cultural museum. 🏯 The Millennial Dragon King's "Office" Built during the Northern Song Dynasty to control floods, the Qinglong Temple is one of the oldest existing temples in Chaozhou. The main hall enshrines Anji Shengwang (Lord Qinglong), believed to be the incarnation of a dragon god who appeared during Han Yu's flood control efforts. The temple's carved dragon pillars, inlaid porcelain dragon boat ridges, and Chaozhou gold lacquer paintings are filled with "dragon" elements. Everywhere you look, you can see the dynamic figure of the Azure Dragon soaring through the clouds. 🎭 The Most Authentic Chaoshan Folk Experience On the 1st and 15th of each lunar month, a spectacular "pig race" unfolds in front of the temple. Whole steamed pigs adorned with large red flowers, accompanied by Chaozhou oranges and Fa Gao (steamed prosperity cake), represent the Chaoshan people's most devout prayer ritual. The temple becomes even livelier during the Zhengyue parade. Lord Qinglong is carried on a palanquin, and wherever he goes, gongs and drums resound. Yingge dancers, with yellow faces and black robes, brandish sticks and stomp their feet like tigers descending a mountain. 💡 Visiting Guide ✅ Must-see photo spots: The night view of the temple gate's stone archway and red lanterns, and the intricate wood carvings of the theater's coffered ceiling. ✅ Hidden gem: Toss a coin into the "dragon's throat" ancient well and make a wish (it's said that Lord Qinglong will hear your wishes). ✅ Nearby attractions: Walk 10 minutes to Paifang Street to enjoy Yamu Nian (a local dessert), or visit the adjacent Chaozhou Woodcarving Museum. This "living" ancient temple is not a cold relic but a spiritual harbor passed down through generations of Chaoshan people. Visit the Qinglong Temple, and you'll understand why the Chaozhou people always say, "You haven't truly been to Chaozhou until you've paid respects to Lord Qinglong."