Minquan Baiyun Temple

Introducing Minquan Baiyun Temple

Baiyun Temple, located in Baiyun Temple Village, Baiyun Temple Town, Minquan County, Shangqiu City, Henan Province, was built during the Zhenguan period of the Tang Dynasty (627-649). It is one of the four famous temples in the Central Plains and the place where Emperor Shunzhi of the Qing Dynasty became a monk. On November 21, 1986, the Minquan Baiyun Temple was designated by the Henan Provincial People's Government as a second-batch key cultural relic protection site in Henan Province.

Baiyun Temple, originally named Baiyi Nunnery, was built during the Zhenguan reign of the Tang Dynasty (627-649). Every summer and autumn, white clouds shroud the temple, creating a breathtaking spectacle, hence the name Baiyun Temple. The architecture is simple, elegant, and majestic. During the Jin and Ming dynasties, the temple was destroyed twice by war. In the 26th year of the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty (1687), Baiyun Temple underwent extensive renovations. On November 21, 1986, the Henan Provincial People's Government designated Baiyun Temple as one of the second batch of key cultural relics under protection in Henan Province.

The Main Hall is the centerpiece of the complex, a common feature of Buddhist temples. It originally housed a statue of Sakyamuni. Five bays wide and three bays deep, it features a single-eaved hipped roof, a green glazed ridge, and relief carvings of dragons and lotuses. The roof is covered in yellow glazed tiles, and the hall boasts eight golden pillars supported by a nine-beam structure. Sakyamuni was born in India in 557 BC. He was the prince of King Suddhodana and became a Buddhist monk at the age of 29.

Climate and best time to travel

Baiyun Temple, with its temperate monsoon climate, covers over 100 mu and faces south. Its majestic gate, inscribed with the characters "Baiyun Zen Temple," is a perfect place to visit in all seasons, with spring and autumn being the best.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Guanyin Hall

The first hall upon entering Baiyun Temple is the Guanyin Hall, with the Main Hall behind it. This layout seems unconventional for temple architecture. Temples all have a rule that they can only build, not destroy. Because Baiyun Temple was originally called the "Guanyin Hall," the Guanyin Hall was built first, so it was built in front of the Main Hall. As the building scale continued to expand, this unique pattern emerged.

Jade Buddha Hall

Nine incomplete inscriptions in front of the Jade Buddha Hall tell a true story. Legend has it that during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty, Emperor Kangxi visited Baiyun Temple three times and stayed there for several days. He presented valuable gifts such as the five dragon-headed staffs of the imperial carriage, a jade emerald ruyi hook, and eight cabinets containing Buddhist scriptures. He then personally inscribed the four characters "Dangtang Changshang" (appearing to be appreciated in the hall) on the underside of the mountain gate. Although the incomplete stele still exists today.

It is recommended to visit for about half a day.

Tickets

10 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Minquan Baiyun Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Minquan Baiyun Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Shangqiu, Henan, known for its serene environment and traditional architecture. It has served as a spiritual center for local communities for centuries and is an important site for cultural and religious heritage in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in Minquan County, Shangqiu, Henan Province.
• Accessible via local buses or taxis from Shangqiu city center or Minquan town.
• Walking is possible within the temple complex once you arrive.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Best visiting times are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and clear skies.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The temple may have a nominal entrance fee (around 10–20 CNY), usually purchased on-site at the entrance. Online ticketing is rarely required.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is generally not required except for group tours or special festival days. If needed, a few days in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 hours are usually sufficient to explore the main halls, gardens, and courtyards.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main prayer halls with large Buddha statues.
• Courtyards and traditional Chinese garden areas.
• Bell and drum towers, if present.
• Historical plaques and calligraphy displays.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available in Chinese; English or other language guides are rare and usually need special arrangement.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The front courtyard and main entrance for temple architecture shots.
• Main halls with Buddha statues inside.
• Temple gardens and walkways for scenic photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Enter through the main gate and visit the front courtyard.
• Proceed to the main halls and prayer areas.
• Walk around the gardens and side courtyards.
• Exit through the secondary gates, capturing photography along the way.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not permitted. Special tours or religious ceremonies may occur during festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Temple is generally quiet. Weekdays outside major Buddhist festivals are the least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic restrooms near main entrances.
• Small shops or stalls selling incense and religious items.
• Rest areas or benches in courtyards and gardens.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main pathways are accessible, but some stairs and uneven surfaces may pose challenges for the disabled or elderly. Children can explore safely under supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted; mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay may be accepted at shops and ticket counters.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants and tea houses are available near the temple, serving regional Henan cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available at temple-affiliated eateries; vegan and halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels and guesthouses in Minquan town provide convenient access to the temple, ranging from budget to mid-range options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Local historical sites and temples in Minquan County.
• Shangqiu city cultural landmarks.
• Nearby scenic parks or countryside for a nature walk.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell incense, prayer beads, calligraphy, and religious charms.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxis or local buses back to Minquan town or Shangqiu city.
• Private car or tour vehicle for visiting nearby temples or scenic spots.
• Arrange shuttle or transport through hotels if planning multiple sites in a day.