Dali Cangshan Jizhao Temple: A Half-Day Trip, a Vegetarian Bowl, and a Happy-Go-Live Life!

Number of days: 1 day
Time: December
Average cost: 68 yuan
With whom: and friends
Updated: 2021.10.07

On a warm winter morning, stroll through Jizhao Temple on Cangshan Mountain in Dali. A leisurely half-day stroll with a bowl of vegetarian food, or simply taking things as they come, is just right.

One December weekend, a few friends met up to hike to Jizhao Temple on Cangshan Mountain. We set out from "Wish Without Violation." The two women behind us, "37 Degrees Woman" and "Qingjing Wuwei," leisurely chatted as they followed "Z013 Country Road" toward Jizhao Temple. Since the distance was only about 2 kilometers, there was no urge to hasten. "A stain on my clothes is nothing to worry about, as long as my wish is fulfilled," was the feeling of happiness.

As we drove, we looked up at Cangshan Mountain. A few white clouds floated on the mountaintop, and Dali's unique "Dali Blue" appeared again, which was very pleasant and pleasing to the eyes.

The "beautiful S-shaped" road was covered with a few rays of morning light. As the wind blew, the light and shadows danced with the wind. It was a beautiful moment, and everything was just right.

Arriving at Jizhao Temple, it was still early before the 11:40 dinner time, so the two of them found a quiet spot and continued chatting. Since it was still early, the temple was deserted, making it a perfect time to enjoy the flowers and the scenery.

Jizhao Temple, Cangshan Mountain, Dali:

Jizhao Temple, named after the meaning of "feeling and then understanding, quiet and shining." The temple was originally built in the early Ming Dynasty and later rebuilt during the Republic of China under the leadership of Tang Jiyao. It was he who inscribed the inscription "Ji Zhao Nunnery" on the temple gate. Surrounded by pine and cypress trees, the temple is a tranquil retreat, exuding a fresh and elegant atmosphere, a true poetic and picturesque experience.

Since Ji Zhao Nunnery is relatively close to "Yuan Wuwei," I visit it almost every two weeks to enjoy a vegetarian meal, admire the succulents, and, during lunch break, quietly contemplate the "various flavors of life."

I've written many travelogues about Jizhao Temple and photographed numerous beautiful succulents. This time, I'm taking a different approach, bringing you beautiful, tranquil photos. A tranquil environment brings a calming inner peace. Reflect in silence, be at peace with what lies ahead, and the fragrance of flowers fills the world.

The brief silence was broken by the influx of tourists, signaling that it was almost time for our vegetarian meal. As usual, I went to the left side of the main hall to purchase meal coupons. As always, I donated any remaining change to the donation box, praying for all the best.

While savoring a bowl of vegetarian food, I could simply sit quietly in a corner and contemplate the "various flavors of life." Temples are inherently quiet places, and signs like "Silence" are rarely seen.

Most tourists remained silent or chatted quietly, but occasionally someone would raise their voices to express themselves. At this moment, everyone's eyes would focus on the loudmouthed person, and it was clear that the desire to "repent and improve" immediately filled their heart. This truly is a great place to learn and improve.

Spend a half-day at Jizhao Temple, savor a bowl of vegetarian food, and quietly observe the people within. Silent and reflective, accepting whatever happens, the fragrance of flowers is everywhere.

Tips for the Tour:

1. The 20 yuan vegetarian meal voucher per person used to be payable only in cash, but now you can pay by scanning a QR code.

2. The greenhouse behind the temple has been demolished. If you want to see the scenery inside the greenhouse again, you can probably only remember it or wait.