White Horse Dragon Pond Temple

Introducing White Horse Dragon Pond Temple

The White Horse Dragon Pond Temple is located at the foot of Lion Mountain at the southern end of Lijiang Ancient Town. It was built in the 19th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign in the Qing Dynasty (1754 AD), destroyed in war during the Xianfeng period, and rebuilt in the 8th year of Emperor Guangxu's reign (1882 AD). It was also an important venue for Lijiang scholars to recite poems and compose essays at that time.

Baima Longtan Temple, with its picturesque scenery and picturesque landscape, has attracted countless scholars and poets throughout history, reciting poems and exchanging poems. Inlaid on the inner wall of the south gable of the wing to the left of the main hall are five white marble tablets inscribed with 11 Tang Dynasty poems by renowned Naxi poets from the Qing Dynasty, including Yang Zhulu, Ma Ziyun, Sang Yingdou, and Niu Tao. These tablets, totaling 1.57 square meters, provide valuable resources for the study of Naxi literature and art. The temple also houses a stele inscribed with the title "Hometown Stele of Li Ruzhe, a Law Scholar who studied in France."

Baimalongtan Temple features a gate, main hall, side rooms, terraces, and pavilions, all of exquisite design. The main gate, facing west and east, exudes grandeur. The main hall, facing north and south, is a wooden structure with a single-eaved hip roof and raised beams. The base is 1.04 meters high, measuring three bays wide and deep. The front eaves, corridors, and corbels are all carved, and there are steps on both sides. The left wing is a two-story building, with the ground floor serving as a ground floor and verandas on both floors. A clear spring gushes from the rocks at the foot of the mountain, forming a circular pool of nearly 100 square meters, known as Baimalongtan.

Climate and best time to travel

The plateau has a monsoon climate; the White Horse Dragon Pond Temple is surrounded by picturesque scenery with clear water and beautiful mountains. Ancient trees shade the Dragon Pond and fish leap in the pool. It is regarded as a sacred spring by the Naxi people and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Three-Eyed Well, Dragon Pond;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

07:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for White Horse Dragon Pond Temple

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

The White Horse Dragon Pond Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple that holds cultural and spiritual significance in the region. It is said to have been established hundreds of years ago and is closely associated with the worship of the White Horse, a symbol of peace and enlightenment. The temple is a key site for both local religious practices and visitors seeking spiritual enrichment.

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

The White Horse Dragon Pond Temple is located in the outskirts of Lijiang, Yunnan. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center, which takes about 30 minutes. Public transportation options may not be direct, so using a taxi is the most convenient option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is generally open from early morning until late afternoon, with the best times to visit being early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. The temple is less busy on weekdays and during off-peak seasons.

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

There is typically a small entrance fee to visit the temple. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance. It is advisable to carry cash as mobile payments or card options may not always be available.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visitors, as the temple is not usually overcrowded. However, if visiting during a special event or festival, it is recommended to check availability and possibly book in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the temple typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the temple grounds and surrounding areas. If you plan to engage in a spiritual ceremony or meditation, you may wish to allocate more time.

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

• The main temple hall with its intricate Buddhist sculptures and murals.
• The Dragon Pond area, where you can enjoy peaceful views of the water and surrounding nature.
• The White Horse statue, which holds religious significance for worshippers and is an iconic symbol of the temple.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they offer detailed explanations about the temple's history and significance. Audio guides in other languages, including English, may not be available, so it's recommended to join a group tour or inquire at the temple for assistance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the Dragon Pond and the White Horse statue. The surrounding temple grounds also offer beautiful backdrops for capturing the scenic landscape and the architecture of the temple itself.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main temple hall to appreciate its religious art and architecture. Then, visit the Dragon Pond area to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Conclude your visit with a walk around the temple grounds, taking in the natural beauty and stopping at the White Horse statue for photos.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at the White Horse Dragon Pond Temple. Special tours or ceremonies may be held on occasion, especially during Buddhist festivals, so it's worth checking for any scheduled events before your visit.

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

The temple is less crowded during weekdays and off-peak seasons, with early mornings or late afternoons being the quietest times to visit. Weekends and holidays tend to attract more visitors.

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

The temple has basic facilities, including clean toilets and rest areas. There are no extensive food or water facilities, so it is recommended to bring your own water and snacks if needed. Shops selling small religious souvenirs may be available at the entrance.

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

The temple is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, but the terrain around the temple grounds may be uneven. It may be challenging for disabled visitors due to the hilly nature of the site, so it is best to check with the temple management for special accommodations if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is the preferred method of payment at the temple, as mobile payments and card options may not always be accepted. It's advisable to carry cash for ticket purchases and any small souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are no restaurants or cafes directly within the temple area, but Lijiang city center offers a variety of dining options for all tastes.
• Local eateries near the temple may provide simple Yunnanese meals.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in Lijiang, though they may be limited near the temple itself. Halal food options might be harder to find, but Lijiang has several restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are various hotels in Lijiang's city center, which is about 30 minutes away by taxi.
• For a more rural experience, there are also guesthouses and boutique accommodations near the temple.

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

• The Old Town of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is close by and can be easily visited in the same day.
• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, one of the region's most famous natural attractions, is also nearby.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops at the temple selling religious artifacts, Buddhist statues, and traditional local crafts. In Lijiang, you can also find textiles, carvings, and other handcrafted items as souvenirs.

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

• Taxi or private car is the best option for continuing your journey to other Lijiang attractions or back to the city center.
• Public buses may be available, but taxi services are more convenient for tourists.