Qiongzhu Temple (Bamboo Temple) - Image 1
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Qiongzhu Temple (Bamboo Temple)

4.5
·11 reviews·Kunming, China

Discover the Qiongzhu Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary famed for its 500 unique clay sculptures of saints and rich Chinese poetry.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Qiongzhu Temple (Bamboo Temple) - Image 1

Qiongzhu Temple (Bamboo Temple)

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the Qiongzhu Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary famed for its 500 unique clay sculptures of saints and rich Chinese poetry.

4.5
(11 reviews)

"A very peaceful place and well worth a visit, featuring 500 unique clay sculptures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Mountain Path

Buses are frequent, but the walk up the mountain offers scenic views and a nice stroll. :athletic_shoe:

⏰ Mind the Closing Time

Don't miss out on visiting the main areas; check closing times to ensure you have enough time to explore. :clock1:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.5 · 11 reviews

Type

Place of Worship

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 500 Arhats

The 500 Arhats

Main Hall

Marvel at 500 unique, life-size clay sculptures of Buddhist saints, each with distinct gestures and expressions.

Intricate Architecture

Intricate Architecture

Temple Complex

Explore the beautiful buildings and serene forest setting that make this temple a peaceful retreat.

Yunnanese Poetry

Yunnanese Poetry

Various Pavilions

Discover a collection of Chinese poetry displayed throughout the temple, adding a layer of cultural depth.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekdays outside of major Chinese holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience. Consider the weather; spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for exploring the temple grounds.

Getting There & Around

Qiongzhu Temple is located about 12 km from Kunming. Buses frequently run up and down the mountain, offering a convenient way to reach the temple. For those who enjoy a walk, the route can be quite scenic.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

fell in love with China🥹🇨🇳🌸🌼 #china #yunnan #lijiang #dali #erhai #shangrila #kunming #chinatravelguide #travelguide
@cannyclaudya
137.6K likes • 1.7M views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Mountain Path

Buses are frequent, but the walk up the mountain offers scenic views and a nice stroll. :athletic_shoe:

⏰ Mind the Closing Time

Don't miss out on visiting the main areas; check closing times to ensure you have enough time to explore. :clock1:

Bet you’ve NEVER seen cheese like that before! 🧀 🇨🇳  a d   📍 Kunming, Yunnan Provence     The food in Yunnan is unlike anywhere else in China. Being situated so close to South East Asian, the food is predominantly rice-based and also tends to be a little lighter and fresher. It’s also one of the only places in China where cheese is actually eaten!    9 STREET FOODS TO TRY IN KUNMING:    * Steamed ...
@polkadotpassport
113.7K likes • 1M views
I am truly honored to participate in the 2025 Belt and Road Media Cooperation Forum in Kunming, Yunnan, China, joined by over 200 representatives from 87 countries and 165 media organizations. As a Cambodian, I shared on the international stage the enduring friendship between Cambodia and China, rooted in the legacy of my great-grandfather, King Father Norodom Sihanouk, who regarded China as his “...
@jennanorodom
77.3K likes • 754.7K views

🧘‍♀️ Embrace the Serenity

This temple is a peaceful place, perfect for quiet contemplation and appreciating the art. :lotus_flower:

📸 Capture the Details

Each of the 500 Arhats is unique; take your time to photograph their individual expressions. :camerawithflash:

China offer Visa free so we choose to go to Yunnan ! 5 full days in Yunnan was an amazing trip (not include flying days). #yunnan #lijiang #dali #kunming #china #traveltiktok #travelchina
@thefazstar
36.8K likes • 916.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Mountain Path

Buses are frequent, but the walk up the mountain offers scenic views and a nice stroll. :athletic_shoe:

⏰ Mind the Closing Time

Don't miss out on visiting the main areas; check closing times to ensure you have enough time to explore. :clock1:

🧘‍♀️ Embrace the Serenity

This temple is a peaceful place, perfect for quiet contemplation and appreciating the art. :lotus_flower:

📸 Capture the Details

Each of the 500 Arhats is unique; take your time to photograph their individual expressions. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(11 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Qiongzhu Temple for its stunning collection of 500 unique clay sculptures of Buddhist saints, describing the site as beautiful and serene. The intricate details of the Arhats and the peaceful forest setting are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some visitors note that they wished they had more time to explore due to closing hours.

"It's a very nice temple. Just in the middle of your way to the dragon's gate. Here you can see and learn some story of China and Yunnan with very beautiful buildings."

Marc Rovira

"Beautiful 👌 I didn't have time to visit the main areas due to closing time. Buses run often up and down the mountain from the city, but if you are up to it it is a nice walk"

Kabayan Mark

"This temple is very beautiful"

vijaykumar kamble

What People Like

Unique 500 Arhat sculptures
Beautiful temple architecture
Peaceful forest setting

What People Dislike

Closing time limitations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Qiongzhu Temple, also known as the Bamboo Temple, is located about 12 km from Kunming. Buses run frequently up and down the mountain from the city, making it accessible for visitors. TikTok+2

Yes, while buses are available, the route up the mountain can be a pleasant walk for those who enjoy it and want to take in the scenery. Reddit

For exploring Yunnan, including Kunming and surrounding areas like Lijiang and Dali, consider using local buses or arranging private transport. Many travelers find it convenient to use services like AirAsia for flights within the region. TikTok+2

Absolutely! Qiongzhu Temple is a worthwhile destination for a day trip from Kunming, offering a unique cultural and artistic experience. TikTok+1

Yunnan offers various transport options, from buses connecting major cities like Kunming, Lijiang, and Shangri-La, to more scenic routes. Some travelers opt for e-SIMs for better connectivity during their travels. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding specific ticket prices and purchase procedures for Qiongzhu Temple is not widely detailed in social media posts. It's advisable to check on-site or with local tourism resources for the most current information. Reddit

While specific hours aren't always highlighted, some visitors have noted missing out on main areas due to closing times. It's recommended to arrive earlier in the day to ensure you have ample time to explore. Reddit

Details on entrance fees for the Bamboo Temple (Qiongzhu Temple) are not consistently mentioned. It's best to confirm on arrival or through official local channels. Reddit

While visiting during holidays is possible, it's generally recommended to aim for weekdays outside of major Chinese holidays to experience a less crowded and more serene atmosphere. Reddit

The primary draw of Qiongzhu Temple is its permanent collection of 500 Arhat sculptures and the temple's architecture. Information on temporary exhibits or events is not frequently shared online. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds, but it's always wise to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. Capturing the unique details of the 500 Arhats is a popular activity. Reddit

The main hall housing the 500 Arhat sculptures offers incredible photographic opportunities due to the sheer variety and detail of the figures. The temple's architecture and the surrounding forest also provide beautiful backdrops. Reddit

Information regarding drone usage at Qiongzhu Temple is not readily available. It's best to assume restrictions may be in place and to check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for capturing the details within the main hall. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the Arhat collection, while a macro lens can highlight individual expressions. Reddit

Yes, visitors can take photos of the Buddhist saints sculptures. Each of the 500 Arhats is unique, making them a fascinating subject for photography. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Culture

Qiongzhu Temple, also known as the Bamboo Temple, is renowned for its collection of 500 life-size clay sculptures of Buddhist saints created in the 19th century by sculptor Li Guangxiu. These sculptures are considered masterpieces and offer insights into the artistic and religious history of Yunnan. Reddit

Li Guangxiu was the sculptor responsible for creating the remarkable collection of 500 clay sculptures of Buddhist saints at Qiongzhu Temple. His work is celebrated for its detail and the unique expressions of each figure. Reddit

The sculptures are unique because each of the 500 Arhats is distinct, with varied gestures and expressions. It's believed that many of these figures were caricatures of contemporaries, adding a layer of social commentary to the religious art. Reddit

Yunnan province offers a rich tapestry of culture, with diverse ethnic groups and unique culinary traditions. You can explore historical sites, enjoy local cuisine that differs from other parts of China, and experience vibrant local life. TikTok+2

While Qiongzhu Temple is a highlight, Yunnan province is rich in cultural and religious sites. Exploring other temples and historical areas can provide a deeper understanding of the region's heritage. TikTok

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Qiongzhu Temple (Bamboo Temple) (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide