Qinglong Temple
Qinglong Temple, also known as Green Dragon Temple, is a historic Buddhist site in Xi’an, China, renowned as the cradle of Japanese Esoteric Buddhism. Originally built during the Sui Dynasty (581–618 CE), it flourished in the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) as a hub for cultural exchange between China and Japan. The temple gained global fame as the study center for Kūkai, a Japanese monk who learned Esoteric Buddhism here before founding Japan’s Shingon sect. Though rebuilt multiple times, its legacy as a symbol of Sino-Japanese Buddhist ties endures.
Historical Overview
Founded in 582 CE during Emperor Wen of Sui’s reign, the temple was initially named “Inspiration Reservoir Monastery.” In 706 CE, during the Tang Dynasty, it was renamed “Qinglong Temple” and became the national center for Esoteric Buddhism. The temple hosted iconic figures like Huiguo, who taught Kūkai and other foreign monks. After the Tang Dynasty’s decline, it was abandoned and rediscovered in 1963. Restoration began in 1973, preserving its Tang-era architectural style. Today, it stands as a testament to the golden age of Buddhist syncretism.
Architectural Layout
The temple follows a traditional Chinese layout with a central axis and symmetrical halls:
- Grand Buddha Hall (Daxiongbaodian): Houses a statue of Sakyamuni flanked by Bodhisattvas.
- Esoteric Buddhism Hall (Mizong Hall): Dedicated to Mahāvairocana and the Five Dhyani Buddhas.
- Memorial Hall of Huiguo and Kūkai: Commemorates the master-disciple legacy with murals of their teachings.
- Pagoda Garden: Features a Tang-style stone pagoda and bamboo groves mimicking historical landscapes.
Key structures include the East Pavilion (for temporary exhibitions) and West Garden (with a lotus pond and meditation areas).
Major Attractions
- Kūkai Memorial Statue: A bronze sculpture of the Japanese monk in prayer, erected in 1984.
- Tang-Style Murals: Restored frescoes depicting celestial beings and Esoteric rituals.
- Grand Buddha Hall: Features a 3.5-meter-tall gilded statue and Tang Dynasty-inspired altar.
- Bamboo Forest Path: A serene trail leading to the pagoda, echoing Tang-era literary descriptions.
- Calligraphy Gallery: Showcases replicas of Tang Dynasty stone inscriptions found on-site.
Suggested Itineraries
-
Classic Route (1–1.5 hours):
Main Gate → Grand Buddha Hall → Esoteric Buddhism Hall → Kūkai Memorial → Pagoda Garden.
Highlights: Core Buddhism exhibits and historical symbolism. -
Cultural Route (2 hours):
Main Gate → Huiguo-Kūkai Hall → Calligraphy Gallery → East Pavilion → West Garden.
Highlights: Cultural exchange history and Tang art. -
Pilgrimage Route (3 hours):
Full circuit including all halls, gardens, and the bamboo path.
Highlights: Meditative spaces and ritual demonstrations (weekends only).
Ticket Purchase
- Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program (up to 3 days in advance).
- On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance; limited daily quota.
- Prices: ¥35 (adults), ¥17.5 (students/seniors), free for children under 1.2m.
- Free Days: International Museum Day (May 18) and China Cultural Heritage Day (June’s second Saturday).
Transportation
- By Subway: Line 3 to “Qinglong Temple Station” (Exit A), 5-minute walk.
- By Bus: Routes 19, 25, 33, or 41 to “Qinglong Temple Stop.”
- By Taxi: Direct to the main gate; fare ≈ ¥15 from Xi’an city center.
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–2 PM; visit early (8:30 AM opening) or late (after 4 PM).
- Crowds: Weekends and cherry blossom season (March–April) are busiest.
- Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for mild temperatures.
- Essentials:
- Respectful attire (no bare shoulders/shorts in meditation areas).
- Photography allowed (no flash in halls).
- Prohibited items: Incense outside designated areas, drones.
