Qingyang Palace is not just a temple, but one of the most famous Taoist shrines throughout China. It is called a "palace" for a historical reason: in 881, fleeing from a rebellion, Emperor Tang Xizong took refuge in this monastery and used it as his temporary palace. Since then, the temple became a "palace" — a title that in imperial China could only be borne by the most important religious centers.
Today, Qingyang is known as the "First Taoist Monastery of Western Sichuan" and the "First Monastery of Southwest China."
History and Significance
The history of Qingyang Palace dates back to ancient times. It is said that on this very site, Laozi himself, the founder of Taoism, preached his teachings and left the "Tao Te Ching." The first structures here appeared during the Zhou Dynasty, and the temple flourished during the Tang era, when Taoism was held in special honor at court. Unfortunately, the majestic buildings of that time did not survive: during the Ming Dynasty, they were destroyed by war. The structures we see today were erected during the reign of Emperor Kangxi.
For China, Qingyang is not just an architectural monument. It is a center of Taoist thought, where priceless relics are preserved. Among them is a unique collection of Taoist scriptures, considered one of the most complete in the world. This is a place where the wisdom of the ancient religion, born in the depths of Chinese culture, has been preserved and passed down for centuries.
Architecture and Treasures
Entering the temple, you will immediately feel the atmosphere of antiquity and peace. The main halls are aligned along the central axis, and each one holds its own secrets.
The Gate (Shanmen)
Above the entrance is a golden plaque with the characters "Qingyang Palace," written by a calligrapher of the Qing Dynasty. This is your first encounter with history.
Hunyuan Hall
One of the central buildings of Qingyang Palace, dedicated to Laozi himself. In this hall, you can especially understand where the Taoist teaching "Tao gives birth to One, One gives birth to Two, Two gives birth to Three, and Three gives birth to all things" originated. The hall is adorned with carved columns featuring images of phoenixes, deer, and playing lions.
Eight Trigrams Pavilion (Bagua Pavilion)
This is the most magnificent and recognizable building of Qingyang Palace. Its octagonal form, erected on a square base, embodies the Taoist principle of "heaven is round, earth is square." Remarkably, the pavilion was built without a single nail and is joined only by wooden fittings. Inside stands a statue of Laozi seated on a black ox.
Hall of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing)
The heart of Qingyang Palace, where worship is offered to the three highest deities of Taoism — the Jade Pure, the Spiritual Pure, and the Dao-De (Laozi). It is here that the main treasures are kept — two bronze statues of goats that gave the palace its name.
One of them is an ancient one-horned beast, brought from Beijing in the early 18th century. But the most amazing thing about it is that it seems to be assembled from fragments of different animals: it has mouse ears, a bull`s nose, tiger claws, a hare`s mouth, dragon horns, a snake`s tail, and even a dog`s belly. According to legend, touching a specific part of this mythical creature helps heal pain in the corresponding part of the human body.
What Else Is Interesting for Tourists
Tea House. The true soul of Chengdu is the tea ceremony on bamboo chairs. In the temple tea house, you can order a cup of traditional "gaiwan" and feel like a local. Vegetarian dishes are served near the tea house, which is also part of the monastic tradition.
Temple Fair. Every year on the 15th day of the second lunar month, on Laozi`s birthday, a huge flower fair takes place here, stretching from the temple to the neighboring Cultural Park. This is the legacy of an ancient tradition that existed here centuries ago. The modern fair is an amazing blend of folk festivities, trade, and faith, where you can see living folklore traditions.
Practical Information
Qingyang Palace is located in the city center, next to People`s Park. Entry costs only 10 yuan, and opening hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The easiest way to get there is by metro, Qingyanggong station on Line 5. Plan at least an hour for your visit, and if you want to stay for a cup of tea — then half a day.
Qingyang Palace is one of the main Taoist shrines in China, located in the center of Chengdu. The temple is interesting for its architecture, history, and atmosphere, allowing visitors to get acquainted with Taoist culture. The visit will take about an hour, but if you wish, you can stay longer in the temple tea house.
