Huacheng Temple

Located on Mount Jiuhua, which is situated in the Qingyang County of the Anhui province, Huacheng Temple, or "Jiuhua Shan", resembles a very unique situation that can best be described as the reincarnation of a building's previous double life, coming back for the third time as a mixture of both its previous states of existence and this is contained through the mere fact that the Haucheng Temple, as it stands today, first existed as a tiny Buddhist temple that was constructed by an Indian monk, in the very early times of the Jin dynasty.

Further history lies within the Huacheng Temple, in that this first construction by the Indian monk, having been the very first on the site, was displaced by the newer Huacheng Temple, during the Tang dynasty.

The modern structure of what Huacheng Temple resembles today encompasses both buildings being rebuilt, with the Sutras Holding Hall being the actual one of the sixteenth century, while the Grand Hall is of the nineteenth century, together with the Hou Tong (Hall Behind), so there is an immense amount of history packed into this sight.

Approaching the temple from outside, a certain air of ancient mystery is emitted, suggestive of some great viewing experiences within the walls of the ancient structures and entry into the temple doesn't disappoint at all.

The interior is about as unique as the outside, with low-lying ceilings depicting carvings that look like they took a lot of time and effort to complete, as well as being the work of a highly skilled craftsman.

There is a distinctive lack of repetition and pattern-like artwork on every single lintel, so every corner is a window into a unique ancient journey, as told through the handy-work of a skilled artist and, although the detail covers a large portion of the decorations, making it appear as if many artists may have worked on the various pieces, there is a unique sort of signature style which is synonymous with artists, suggesting that only one artist could have done all the work.

If you can get to the Main Jiuhua Village Square, achieved by a number of busses that service the area, from all the major surrounding tourist regions, you can walk right up to the temple since it isn't really an attraction that makes up one of the busier ones of the area.

Operating Times: 08:00 - 17:00

Entrance Fees: 190 Yuan

Entrance into the entire tourist region of Jiuhua Shan, which comes at a fee of 190 Yuan, will get you free admission to the Huacheng Temple, as one of the many attractions to enjoy in the village.