Serenity at Xiangshan Temple, Henan

#asiabudgetchallenge 📸 Destination: Xiangshan Temple, Henan, China 💲Budget: ~$10-25 USD 🔆 Travel Tip: Visit Xiangshan Temple in the late afternoon (3-5 PM) to enjoy the sunset over the Yi River and hear the temple bells ring, creating a tranquil vibe. Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to save on costs, and wear comfy shoes for exploring the temple and nearby Longmen Grottoes. Take public bus No. 81 from Luoyang Railway Station (~$0.30 USD) to keep transport cheap. 📝 Notes: Xiangshan Temple, perched on the eastern slopes of Xiangshan Mountain in Luoyang, Henan, is 13 km (30-minute drive) from Luoyang’s city center and just steps from the UNESCO-listed Longmen Grottoes. This historic Buddhist temple, rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty, offers panoramic views of the Yi River and the grottoes’ towering Buddha statues. Highlights include its serene courtyard, ancient stone inscriptions, and the villa where Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling once stayed, adding a touch of Republican-era history. Known for hosting Wu Zetian’s poetry gatherings in the Tang Dynasty, the temple exudes cultural depth. Entry is included in the Longmen Grottoes ticket (~$13 USD), making it a budget-friendly add-on. Fun fact: its name, “Fragrant Mountain,” nods to the lush flora that once scented the area. Pair your visit with the nearby Bai Garden, the tomb of poet Bai Juyi, for a poetic stroll. Weekdays offer fewer crowds, but expect basic facilities—bring tissues for restrooms. The temple’s steep steps may challenge those with mobility issues. #asiabudgetchallenge #china #temple