[2025 Kunming Attraction] Travel Guide for Yuantong Temple (Updated Jan)

#temples #100waysoftravel Situated in the northern part of Kunming, Yuantong temple is one of the most important temple inscribed at part of the National Cultural Relic. It has a history of more than 1200 years, built by the Nanzhao Kingdom King Yimouxun during the late eighth century. When you first enter the temple you will reach the Yuantong Hall with a delicat9e stone bridge across the pond connecting the main hall and the Mahavira Hall. There is also a stone staircase which leads you to the top of the hill and you can have a terrific panoramic view of the entire complex. This temple also houses many important Buddhist scriptures and those are considered a cultural relics of China, which makes the temple a very important role in history and the world.

Very Nearby the zoo, and the temple can be seen below from one side of the zoo. Lots of lovely architecture, with a pond enclosing one part, containing a handful of turtles. There's also another pond full of fish, and a couple more turtles relaxing in there. Such a peaceful and tranquil place. despite being so near to the road, you cannot hear anything to distract you. I saw many workers or volunteers hanging around, then eating their lunch which was unusual. Not so many monks there, but there was a living area included in the temple, but it was off-limits. For just ¥6 it is more than worth a visit to this temple.

Yunnan Province Trip: 4 Nights, 5 Days Day 1: Kunming 📍Yuantong Temple, Entrance Fee: 6 Yuan 📍Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways, Nearby are many shopping malls. Must-try snacks: Tanghulu and Rose Pastry Day 2: Travel from Kunming to Lijiang by high-speed train 📍Stroll around Lijiang Old Town, look for tours to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Ticket prices vary depending on whether you watch the show or not. It's recommended to check out several shops in the old town. Day 3: One-day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Baishuihe Waterfall 📍Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 📍Baishuihe Waterfall Day 4: Travel to Shangri-La 📍Dafosi Temple 📍Songzanlin Monastery Day 5: Return to Kunming 📍Kunming Airport Tips for this trip: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is over 4000 meters above sea level. Walk slowly and consider bringing canned oxygen. If you experience headaches or difficulty breathing, descend immediately.

#chinatraveltips Address: Wuhua District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China 🇨🇳 Yuantong Temple is the biggest and one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Kunming City, which is the location of the Buddhism Association of Yunnan Province and Kunming City. announced as a cultural relic unit under provincial protection in 1998, Yuantong Temple gained a high reputation in the southeast Asia area and attracted many visitors to visit every year. Yuantong Temple is famous for its symmetrical layout, which highlights the main structure of the temple, plus flourishing trees and pools decorating the temple. The quiet atmosphere inside makes it a place to relax in the bust City. #kunming #yunnanprovince #china

Yuantong Temple, Kunming Yuantong Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Kunming, with a rich historical and cultural heritage. It was first built during the Nanzhao period of the Tang Dynasty, more than 1,200 years ago. Originally named Putuo Temple, it was later renamed Yuantong Temple, and is a place of worship for Guanyin. After several expansions and renovations during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, it became the largest temple in Kunming. Located in Wuhua District, Kunming, it is adjacent to Cuihu Lake, with a superior geographical location and a quiet environment. The temple has a unique structure, adopting an inverted slope structure, integrating traditional Central Plains architecture and Qin-style architectural styles, showing the charm of multiculturalism. There are many attractions worth visiting in the temple, such as Yuantong Hall, Longhua Hall, etc. Yuantong Temple is not only a Buddhist holy place, but also an important part of Kunming's history and culture, carrying a profound cultural heritage. In short, Yuantong Temple is a Buddhist cultural site worth visiting.

beautiful yuan tong temple

It was a trip to Kunming, China. We first visited Green Lake Park and were captivated by its serene beauty. The willow trees 🌳 swaying over the calm waters create perfect reflections for photography 📸 We explored the park in the early morning, and I would recommend this timing because the soft light enhances the peaceful atmosphere and highlights the vibrant flowers 💐 and lotus ponds. It’s also less crowded in the morning, giving you the perfect opportunity to take unspoiled photos ✨ 📍Cuihu South Road, Wuhua District, Kunming, Yunnan, China The Stone Forest 🌳 is one of Kunming’s most iconic spots, and we explored its dramatic limestone formations that rise like sculptures from the ground. The textures and unique shapes are a photographer’s delight 📸 We recommend visiting in the late afternoon when the golden hour light accentuates the shadows and adds depth to your pictures. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must for capturing Kunming’s natural beauty 😍 📍Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming, Yunnan, China We also explored Dianchi Lake and the Western Hills, two incredible locations for photography 📸 From the hilltop ⛰️ you’ll get sweeping views of Kunming city and the lake below. Sunrise at the Western Hills is spectacular, and I’d highly recommend arriving early ⛅️ to catch the first rays of sunlight breaking through the mist. The Dragon Gate area is especially photogenic with its intricate carvings 😍 📍Xishan District, Kunming, Yunnan, China The Golden Temple, surrounded by lush greenery, was one of the most peaceful places we visited 🙌The temple’s bronze structure glimmers beautifully in the sunlight, making it ideal for photography 📸We recommend visiting mid-morning when the sun is high enough to illuminate the intricate details of the temple, but before it gets too crowded. 📍Mingfeng Hill, Panlong District, Kunming, Yunnan, China Lastly, we also explored Yuantong Temple, a historic Buddhist temple known for its stunning architecture and tranquil ambiance. The colorful prayer flags and lotus-filled ponds provided excellent photography opportunities ✨ I recommend visiting in the late afternoon to catch the warm light on the temple’s intricate details and peaceful surroundings. 📍Yuantong Street, Wuhua District, Kunming, Yunnan, China #chinatrip #travel #Vacation

A day in Kunming, often referred to as the "Spring City" for its mild climate year-round, can be both enriching and enjoyable. Here's a suggested itinerary: **Morning:** 1. **Breakfast**: Start your day with a traditional Yunnan breakfast at a local eatery or café. Try dishes like "crossing-the-bridge noodles" or rice noodles with various toppings. 2. **Kunming Green Lake (Cuihu Park)**: Take a leisurely stroll around this scenic park, which features beautiful gardens, lotus ponds, and traditional architecture. It's a great place to experience the city's serene atmosphere. 3. **Yuantong Temple**: Visit this prominent Buddhist temple, known for its intricate architecture and peaceful environment. It's one of Kunming’s most important religious sites. **Afternoon:** 1. **Lunch**: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Yunnan cuisine is known for its use of fresh herbs and unique flavors. Consider trying dishes like mushroom hotpot or Yunnan-style goat cheese. 2. **Kunming Flower and Bird Market**: Explore this vibrant market, which offers a wide range of flowers, birds, and traditional crafts. It’s a lively place to experience local culture and pick up souvenirs. 3. **Stone Forest (Shilin)**: Head out to this UNESCO World Heritage site, located about 1.5 to 2 hours from Kunming. The Stone Forest is a unique karst landscape with towering limestone formations. Allow a few hours to explore the area. **Evening:** 1. **Dinner**: Return to Kunming and have dinner at a local restaurant. You might want to try some local specialties like "steam pot chicken" or "Yunnan-style rice noodles." 2. **Kunming's Night Markets**: If time permits, explore one of Kunming's night markets or pedestrian streets, such as Nanping Street, to experience the city's vibrant nightlife and sample street food. This itinerary offers a mix of cultural sights, local cuisine, and natural beauty, showcasing the highlights of Kunming in a day. #summerdestinations #kunming

Visiting Yuantong Temple in Kunming was a peaceful and reflective experience. As I entered the temple grounds, I was immediately struck by the beauty of its ancient architecture, nestled among lush greenery. The central pond with stone bridges connecting the halls created a calming atmosphere. I wandered through the halls, admiring the intricate statues and Buddhist art, and I found a quiet spot to sit and absorb the tranquility of the surroundings. The serene environment, combined with the temple's historical significance, made my visit truly special. It felt like a hidden oasis amidst the bustling city of Kunming. #summerdestinations #china #chinatrip #chinatravel #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip

#chinatrip My visit to Kunming was a journey through a vibrant tapestry of natural beauty and ancient heritage. The serene Green Lake Park and Yuantong Temple offered a glimpse into the city's spiritual soul. Kunming Old Town's winding streets and quaint architecture transported me to a bygone era. The breathtaking Shilin Stone Forest, with its towering limestone pillars, was a marvel of nature's artistry. Yiliang Yunxiang Cave's ethereal beauty and Blue Moon Valley's tranquil waters left me enchanted. Each destination was a thread in the intricate fabric of Kunming's charm, weaving together a travel experience that was nothing short of magical.

Kunming Yuantong Zen Temple, located on Yuantong Street in Kunming city, is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Kunming, with a history of over 1200 years. It was originally built during the Nanzhao era of the Tang Dynasty and was initially named Putuo Temple. In the fifth year of the Dade era of the Yuan Dynasty (1301 AD), it was rebuilt on the ruins of Putuo Temple and renamed Yuantong Temple. Yuantong Temple is not only the largest temple in Kunming but also one of the earliest Guanyin worship sites in China, predating the Guanyin worship site on Mount Putuo in Zhejiang by over 100 years. The temple houses a statue of the Three Buddhas from the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty. In the main hall, there are two pillars over 10 meters high, each adorned with a colorful dragon, and the walls are decorated with statues of 500 Arhats. With its unique architectural style and profound cultural heritage, Yuantong Temple has become one of Kunming's cultural landmarks, attracting countless tourists and devotees for pilgrimage.

| Seeking quietness in the midst of the hustle and bustle, there is a hidden paradise~. Opening hours: 08:00-17:00 Tickets: 6 yuan (free incense candles in the temple: three sticks of incense + 2 candles) Yuantong Temple is located on Yuantong Street in Kunming. It is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Kunming, with a history of more than 1,200 years. At the same time, it is also the largest temple in Kunming. The Yuantong Temple is magnificent in appearance and has lush green trees. It is known as "the snail peaks are green" and "the snail peaks are green". It has always been one of the eight scenic spots in Kunming, just like a beautiful waterside garden in the south of the Yangtze River. There is a couplet that goes: "An ancient temple is located in a busy city, and there is a lot of traffic. It depends on how you settle down, and everything you see is chaotic. The Buddha is connected to the soul, and tourists and spectators, who can respect them, will randomly arrive at the paradise."

Hey, buddies! Are you ready to embrace the visual feast of Kunming's jacarandas? Let me take you into this refreshing world of blue and purple! 💐 📍Cuihu Park: Step into this green gem in the city center, and let the fragrance of jacarandas accompany you, every breath feels like a deep embrace with nature. 📍Yuántōng Temple: In this ancient temple, the sunlight filters through the gaps of the jacarandas, as if time slows down, and each falling petal marks a peaceful moment. 📍Yunnan University: Amidst the lush greenery of the campus, the jacarandas bloom quietly, capturing the most beautiful memories of youth, and the perfect moment for photography enthusiasts. 📍Dian Lake: Here, you can boat on the lake while admiring the swaying jacarandas on the shore, feeling the tranquility of the water and sky merging as one. 🛍 Longma Market & Nanping Street: The bustle of the night market and the quiet of the old street both hide the silhouette of jacarandas. The handicrafts and snacks here all carry a hint of the flower's fragrance. 🍜 Crossing Bridge Rice Noodles, 🥮 Flower Cakes, 🍜 Hot and Sour Rice Noodles: How can you miss the authentic local food when in Kunming? Each has its unique flavor, leaving a lasting impression. 🚌 Bus, 🚇 Subway, 🚖 Taxi: Whether by bus, subway, or taxi, you can easily reach every jacaranda viewing spot, making your trip more convenient. In summary, the jacaranda season in Kunming is a moving painting, waiting for you to paint it yourself. Are you ready for this visual feast? Tell me your plans!

😍Wow, buddies, let me take you into a hidden millennium secret in the bustling city of Kunming—Yuantong Zen Temple! Not only does it have a profound history, but it also offers an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, waiting for you to come and explore in serenity! 🏯Yuantong Zen Temple, as one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Kunming, was founded in the late 8th century and has a history of over 1200 years! It has undergone several renovations, and the scale of the architecture today is thanks to the expansion by Wu Sangui during the Qing Dynasty's Kangxi era! The famous Yuantong Shengjing Archway was built at that time! 🍃🌳Yuantong Zen Temple is located in the bustling city, north of Yuantong Mountain, and adjacent to the Kunming Zoo, covering a total area of 13,000 square meters. With its magnificent appearance and lush greenery, it is known as 'Luofeng Embracing Greenery' and 'Luofeng Overlapping Greenery,' and has always been one of Kunming's eight scenic spots, just like a beautiful garden in the Jiangnan water town! 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️It is worth mentioning that Yuantong Zen Temple is also a reverse-slope temple! That is to say, after entering the gate, you have to walk downhill all the way. This design is very rare and fully considers drainage and Feng Shui! 🎫Admission requires a 6 yuan ticket, which is actually an incense offering coupon! After walking through the 'Yuantong Shengjing' Archway, you can take three sticks of incense and two red candles at the 'Han Guang' and 'Chu Yun' pavilions on both sides to experience the devout Buddhist atmosphere. 😇Whether you are here to enjoy the scenery or to pray, stepping into the temple, your body and mind will become relaxed. Slowly appreciate this ancient temple of thousands of years, smell the scent of the incense, and your heart will settle down a lot. 📍The location is at No. 30 Yuantong Street, Wuhua District, Kunming City, and the opening hours are from 8 am to 5 pm! Buddies, come and explore together!

Located in Wuhua District of Kunming, Yuantong Zen Temple is a spiritual haven I stumbled upon in the city. As one of the larger and more complete temples in the city, it not only has mountains and water, but also three or four temple halls for you to offer incense and pray for blessings. The entire temple is permeated with a fragrance. 🍵 In the area with tables and chairs for entertaining visitors, you can bring some food, sit down, and slowly savor the tranquility and harmony of the place. The architecture on the back mountain is even more breathtaking, with stone walls full of the marks of time, and below there is a pond with many goldfish, cool and pleasant. 📍 The location is on Yuantong Street in Wuhua District, with the nearest subway station being Chuanxin Drum Tower (exit from Exit B), and then it's about a kilometer walk to get there. Alternatively, you can choose the route from Green Lake—Yunnan University—Yuantong Zen Temple for a one-stop tour to experience different scenery. 💰 The ticket costs only six yuan, and you can get a candle and two sticks of incense for yourself, which is a great value for money. The opening hours are from 8:00 to 17:00 every day, and remember not to buy incense and candles at the entrance, nor to believe those who ask for divination. 📷 Here, you can feel the unique charm of cultural attractions, enjoy the fun of traveling, admire the grandeur of ancient architecture, and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural connotations of the temple.

The city center is close to Cuihu Lake. A 1200-year-old ancient temple, built during the Nanzhao period, is a national key Buddhist temple. The lotus, camellia, and three-leaf plum blossoms in the temple are very beautiful. The location is connected with Yuantong Mountain Zoo for cherry blossom viewing, you can go and see while visiting here. My childhood impression of the thriving incense is here, The most special thing in the temple is a bronze Buddha hall, which is a Southeast Asian style building, enshrining the bronze statue of Sakyamuni given by the King of Thailand. There are free incense and candles in the temple, three incense sticks and two candles The ones sold at the door can be bought or not.

2023.09.13 After coming out of the Luhan Mansion in Kunming, keep going right, after about ten minutes of walking, arrived at the third stop of today's Yunnan-Tibet trip at 14:40, to visit the famous Yuantong Temple in Kunming. This is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Kunming, with a history of more than 1200 years. At the same time, it is also the largest temple in Kunming. It was built during the Tang Dynasty and the Nanzhao era, originally named Butuoluo Temple. In the fifth year of Yuan Dynasty Datong (1301 AD), Yuantong Temple was built, and the Yuan emperor "gave the seal book praise". The expansion project lasted for 18 years, until the sixth year of Yuan Yan You (1319 AD) was completed. During the Ming Dynasty, Yuantong Temple was expanded, and a new Jieyin Hall was built on the top of the mountain. Yuantong Temple was also renovated many times during the Qing Dynasty.

Kunming in spring, hides a fairyland in the world - Yuantong Temple. An ancient temple of a thousand years, the bell rings melodiously, telling the story of time. Walking in it, it seems to be in a paradise far away from the hustle and bustle. The sun sets in the west, the golden light spills over the Buddha statue, inspiring awe. Here, every brick and tile is full of historical weight, and every prayer carries people's vision. Come to Yuantong Temple, find the peace and beauty in your heart.

Great city to visit. Vibrant, breathable, interesting,historical and most of all relaxed. The city is reasonably large and spread out around the lake Dianchi, but the interesting part of the city center is actually rather compact and easy to navigate on foot or with one of the numerous e-bikes you can find parked almost everywhere. Aim to have your hotel somewhere between WuYi and the DongFeng Guang Chan subway stations if you want to be close to the pedestrian streets and tourist center. There are some places you will want to use the subway or taxi for, like the XiShan or the Yunnan Ethnic village, both of which I highly recommend, but Green Lake park, Yuantong temple, NanChang Jie, Kunming Lao Jie are all situated in the center and easily reached on foot. The climate in winter was super pleasant, with bright clear skies and comfortable 15-20c during the day. During the night the temperature drops considerably, but it does not seem to stop the locals from dining on the open terraces. The city actually has so many great things to see and visit, that it is basically up to you how long you wish to stay. We extended our stay twice and honestly, I would seriously consider moving to this city long term, because it does feel like it has got it all. #urbanexplorer