Panlong Temple in Jinning, Kunming, Yunnan

Kunming Jinning Panlong Temple Travel Guide: I. Introduction: Panlong Temple is one of the three major Buddhist holy sites in Yunnan, as famous as Kunming West Mountain and Binchuan Jizu Mountain. It was first built in the Yuan Dynasty (1347), and has a history of nearly 700 years. The temple buildings are built along the mountain, integrating the cultures of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. It has more than 20 halls, including the Daxiong Hall, the Medicine Buddha Hall, the Guanyin Hall, and the Jade Emperor Pavilion, as well as ancient and famous trees such as camellias from the Yuan Dynasty and red plums from the Ming Dynasty. It is one of the most popular temples in Kunming. II. Best Time to Visit: Suitable for all seasons: Spring and autumn have pleasant weather, summer is a good time to escape the heat, and winter offers plum blossoms (December to March of the following year). Temple fair activities: Temple fairs are held on the 17th day of the seventh lunar month and the 18th day of the eighth lunar month, attracting crowds of pilgrims and creating a lively atmosphere. III. Transportation Guide: Public transportation: From Kunming city center: Take a direct bus to Jincheng from the South Bus Station or Wujiaba Bus Station (fare: CNY 15–20). After arriving in Jincheng, take a taxi to Panlong Temple (approx. CNY 5). Subway transfer: Take the subway to South Bus Station (Exit C), transfer to a white bus to Jincheng, and then transfer to a three-wheeled vehicle. Self-driving: Navigate to "Panlong Temple Parking Lot", Kunmo Expressway → Jinbei Road → Panlong Road, approx. 1 hr drive; parking fee is CNY 6/vehicle. IV. Tickets and Opening Hours: Tickets: CNY 8/person, Medicine Buddha Hall charges an additional CNY 2/person (cash only). Opening hours: 7:30–17:30 (some halls may close earlier). V. Recommended Tour Routes: Classic route: Mountain Gate → Yingxian Bridge → Sleeping Buddha Hall → Lvzu Pavilion → Daxiong Hall → Medicine Buddha Hall → Jade Emperor Pavilion → Guanhai Tower (overlooking Dianchi Lake). Blessing route: Guanyin Hall (pray for peace) → God of Wealth Hall (pray for wealth) → Medicine Buddha Hall (pray for health) → Wishing Tree (tie a red string and make a wish). VI. Highlights: Ancient and famous trees: Camellias from the Yuan Dynasty, Ming Dynasty cercis chinensis, Qing Dynasty osmanthus fragrans, etc. Among them, the "Yuanmei" plum tree is over 650 years old and is especially spectacular when it blooms in winter. Cultural heritage: Preserved handwritings and inscriptions of historical figures such as Emperor Yongli of the Ming Dynasty and Xu Xiake, such as the *Dapan An Dajue Chanshi Baoyun Pagoda Inscription*. Vegetarian food experience: The temple provides vegetarian meals (CNY 5–10/person). The vegetarian canteen next to the main gate is recommended (cash only). VII. Precautions: Incense purchase: Avoid high prices from vendors along the way. Incense can be purchased at the temple ticket office or regular shops. Dress code: Dress appropriately when entering the temple and avoid revealing clothing. Keep quiet and respect religious customs. Anti-scam tips: The return bus boarding point is different from the departure point. It is recommended to confirm in advance. Be careful when driving as the mountain roads are narrow. VIII. Recommendations Nearby Food: Jincheng Town has Yunnan specialties such as Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles and Taishi Cakes. Nearby attractions: Jinning Ancient Dian Cultural City, Dianchi Lake South Bank Wetland Park, all within 30 mins by car.