A Super Comprehensive Guide, Save It!

📍 Shuanggui Temple Shuanggui Temple, known as the "ancestral temple of Zen Buddhism in Southwest China," has a history of over 350 years. Founded by the Chan Master Poshanghai Ming during the Qing Dynasty, it has received support from successive emperors and houses hundreds of precious cultural relics. Its status is even recognized by the Buddhist community in Southeast Asia! The temple gets its name "Shuanggui" (Double Osmanthus) from two ancient osmanthus trees within its grounds. Strolling through the temple feels like traveling through time. 📸 Must-See Spots 1️⃣ Mahavira Hall: The main building, with a magnificent and solemn wooden and stone structure. The Buddha statues are incredibly lifelike. Remember to look up and admire the detailed carvings! 2️⃣ Hall of Five Hundred Arhats: A newly built hall where each Arhat statue has a unique expression, making for captivating photos. 3️⃣ White Lotus Pond & Back Pond: The water in the ponds is crystal clear, and the lotus blossoms in summer are breathtaking, creating a truly Zen atmosphere. 4️⃣ Scripture Depository: Home to cultural relics such as the Sanskrit *Pattra Sutra* and a Burmese jade Buddha. A must-see for culture enthusiasts. ✨ Local Insider Tips Best time for photos: The lighting is soft in the early morning or evening. Avoid the harsh midday sun. Side shots of the corridors or low-angle upward shots of the buildings turn out best! Zen experience: Sit quietly for a while and listen to the chanting, or politely chat with the monks about Buddhist doctrines. 🚗 Practical Information Entrance fee: 10 yuan/person (super affordable!) Opening hours: 8:00-17:00 (recommended visiting time: 2-3 hours) Transportation: Chongqing City → Liangping (bus/train) → transfer to bus No. 302 or Jindai Town shuttle bus (2.5 yuan) to reach the temple directly. Tip: Incense and candles can be purchased at the entrance at reasonable prices. Attire: Comfortable flat shoes + plain-colored clothing to respect the religious atmosphere. 🌸 Nearby Attractions Shuanggui Lake Wetland Park: Not far from the temple. Plum blossoms bloom in February and March, cherry blossoms in April. Sifangzhai is also a good spot for viewing plum and peach blossoms. Enjoy flower viewing and photography along the way. Baili Bamboo Sea: A bamboo culture-themed scenic area. Perfect for a day trip, strolling through the bamboo forest and enjoying a bamboo shoot feast. Shuanggui Temple is not just a temple; it's the cultural soul of Liangping. Whether you're seeking blessings, taking photos, or finding inner peace, this place will help you find tranquility. As a local, I sincerely recommend everyone to experience this unique Zen atmosphere! It's also said to be quite effective for prayers related to wealth, marriage, and studies. Come, relax, experience, and offer your prayers.🙏