[2025 Beijing Attraction] Travel Guide for Tiantaishan Mountain Cishan Temple (Updated Oct)

Wanshan Bridge, located near Shuangquan Temple in Shijingshan, was known as Shuangquan Bridge during the Ming Dynasty. It was renovated and renamed Wanshan Bridge during the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty. Historically, Wanshan Bridge was the essential route for pilgrims traveling from Cuiwei Mountain to the charitable Ci'en Temple on Tiantai Mountain. Looking at the ancient bridge that has witnessed the vicissitudes of time, one can imagine its former prosperity. Not far ahead is a tea pavilion; picturing the scene, the stream of pilgrims was endless, and the spectacle was magnificent. On the north side of the bridge, there is also a stone niche, nestled between two ancient cypresses, housing a stone Buddha, known as the Guiding Buddha.

Ci Shan Temple was founded at the end of the Ming Dynasty and the beginning of the Qing Dynasty. It is a temple in the west of Beijing that integrates Buddhism, Taoism, and various folk deities. It is said that the plaque of the mountain gate hall, 'Ancient Ci Shan Temple,' was inscribed by Emperor Qianlong himself; The roof of the Great Compassion Altar features a central ridge with dragon and phoenix brick carvings; A sundial made in the 55th year of Qianlong's reign has Roman numerals on its dial, with '1790' engraved in the center; The Sutra Tower (also known as the Demon King Lord's Hall) is a two-story building. The lower level enshrines a legendary seated statue of Emperor Shunzhi of the Qing Dynasty, facing south and east, looking towards the direction of the capital, symbolizing his yearning for Beijing; At the top of the mountain, there is a towering Qing Dynasty ancient lamp Buddha pagoda, which is the robe and bowl pagoda of the Demon King monk. The pagoda's plaque is inscribed with 'Built in the third month of the 56th year of Qianlong, Namo Ancient Lamp Buddha Lotus Teacher's precious pagoda'; On the cliff, there is a huge relief of Buddha Sakyamuni's head, which is the largest stone-carved Buddha head in Beijing; There are three Catalpa trees in the scenic area, with an estimated age of four to five hundred years. The entrance fee is 8 yuan. It is more convenient to come by car, as parking is available at the entrance or in the courtyard. If taking the bus, one needs to walk up the mountain, which is still a distance away, The nearby mountainous area is a popular hiking route for donkey friends. Hiking can reach Shuangquan Temple, Wanshan Bridge, Nanmachang Reservoir, Badachu, Fragrant Hills, and other places.

The Ci'en Temple, a lesser-known scenic spot in the west of Beijing. The temple is built against the mountain, with few visitors, tranquility, and fresh air. There are three catalpa trees within the temple, with an estimated age of four to five hundred years. They start to bloom in late April, with lush flowers.