Baoguo Temple Emei
A historic Buddhist temple from the Liao Dynasty, Baoguo Temple offers ancient architecture and sacred texts in a serene setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Baoguo Temple Emei
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Buddhist temple from the Liao Dynasty, Baoguo Temple offers ancient architecture and sacred texts in a serene setting.
"Very old temple pack with history. Very nice place."
🎟️ Admission Fees & Discounts
Entry is 8 yuan, with free admission for seniors over 60. Be aware gift shops inside are pricey.
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it's an active place of worship. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Buddhist Architecture
Main temple complex
Marvel at centuries-old structures, intricate carvings, and sacred halls that whisper tales of history.

Sacred Texts and Artifacts
Temple interiors
Discover a rich collection of Buddhist scriptures and relics, offering a glimpse into spiritual traditions.

Foothills of Mount Emei
Surrounding grounds
Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the natural landscape surrounding the temple, a peaceful retreat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Understanding Temple Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Admission Fees & Discounts
Entry is 8 yuan, with free admission for seniors over 60. Be aware gift shops inside are pricey.
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it's an active place of worship. :pray:
Mount Emei/Emeishan 1 day route
Visiting emei shan to see monkeys
📸 Photography Etiquette
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of restricted areas and avoid flash during prayer times. :camerawithflash:
🌳 Explore the Surroundings
Don't miss the forest and cliff carvings near the temple, even if you can't go inside. :evergreen_tree:
Visit Shangri-la OR Emei + Leshan (via Chengdu) ?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Admission Fees & Discounts
Entry is 8 yuan, with free admission for seniors over 60. Be aware gift shops inside are pricey.
🚶♀️ Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it's an active place of worship. :pray:
📸 Photography Etiquette
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of restricted areas and avoid flash during prayer times. :camerawithflash:
🌳 Explore the Surroundings
Don't miss the forest and cliff carvings near the temple, even if you can't go inside. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Baoguo Temple for its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, especially when visited during quieter times. Some note that the temple can become crowded and that the gift shops are quite expensive, which can detract from the spiritual experience for some. Despite these minor drawbacks, the well-kept grounds and ancient charm make it a worthwhile visit.
"Visited after hours so we didn't have the chance to go inside and look at the temple. Yet we still have the opportunity to check our the Buddhist cravings by the red mountain cliff. As well as check out the beautiful forest nearby the temple. Overall the area was really well kept and was really clean. Unfortunate for not haven't the change to go inside but we are sure it's just as grand"
Sandee Tour
"Nice and beautiful Buddhist temple.Take a walk beside the river . Peaceful"
Man Kin
"Very old temple pack with history. Very nice place."
Daniel JY Ng
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Chengdu, you can take a high-speed train to Emei Station, then a local bus or taxi to Baoguo Temple. The journey typically takes around 1.5-2 hours. Some travelers opt for direct buses from Chengdu's bus stations.
Yes, Baoguo Temple is well-served by local buses from Emei city. These buses are frequent and an economical way to reach the temple.
If you are already exploring Mount Emei, Baoguo Temple is often one of the first major sites you'll encounter. Local shuttle buses or taxis are available from various points on the mountain.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors arriving by private car. The area is generally well-equipped for tourist access.
A taxi or local bus from Emei city center to Baoguo Temple typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Baoguo Temple is 8 yuan. Senior citizens above 60 years old receive free admission.
Yes, senior citizens aged 60 and above are eligible for free entry. It's always a good idea to check for any other potential discounts or group rates.
While specific hours can vary, Baoguo Temple is generally open during daylight hours, allowing visitors to explore its grounds and main halls. It's advisable to check locally for the most current times.
Access to the main temple complex requires a ticket. However, the surrounding natural areas and cliff carvings might be accessible without a formal ticket, though this is less common.
Advance booking is typically not required for Baoguo Temple, as tickets can be purchased at the entrance. However, during peak tourist seasons, it might be more convenient to buy upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the ancient temple architecture, the grand halls, and any sacred texts or relics housed within. The surrounding natural beauty and cliff carvings are also highly recommended.
Baoguo Temple can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can offer a more peaceful experience.
Take your time to wander through the temple complex, appreciating the architecture and spiritual ambiance. Consider a guided tour if you want to learn more about its history and significance.
While Mount Emei is known for its monkeys, Baoguo Temple itself is less likely to have significant monkey populations. The wild monkeys are more commonly found higher up on the mountain trails.
Basic facilities like restrooms are available. There are also shops selling incense and Buddhist charms, though they are noted to be quite expensive.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are shops selling incense and Buddhist charms, dedicated food stalls or restaurants are not a prominent feature within the temple complex itself. You'll find more dining options in Emei city or on Mount Emei.
Near Baoguo Temple, you can find local Sichuan cuisine. Expect dishes that are often spicy and flavorful, typical of the region.
It's generally recommended to eat in Emei city or at designated eateries on Mount Emei for a wider variety and better value. The shops within the temple are primarily for religious items.
Bringing your own snacks and water is usually permissible, but it's important to be respectful and dispose of any waste properly.
As a Buddhist temple, vegetarian options are often available in restaurants catering to pilgrims and visitors. Inquire locally for the best vegetarian choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The main temple halls, intricate carvings, and the serene natural surroundings offer excellent photo opportunities. Capture the architectural details and the peaceful ambiance.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of Baoguo Temple, but it's important to be respectful and avoid using flash inside prayer halls or during ceremonies.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour can create a magical atmosphere around the temple.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and national parks to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the grand halls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that the temple is an active religious site, so encourage children to be respectful. The entrance fee is minimal, and seniors get in free, which can be helpful for multi-generational family trips. Pack snacks and water, as dining options within the immediate temple grounds are limited.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there are shops selling religious items, these can be quite expensive, so it's best to avoid impulse purchases. Bringing your own food and water can also help save money, as dining options directly at the temple are scarce and potentially pricier.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Baoguo Temple
The temple's architecture is a testament to its long history, with structures that have been preserved and maintained over generations. The careful preservation efforts ensure that visitors can still appreciate the ancestral care that has gone into maintaining this place of worship. While it can get crowded, the historical weight of the site remains palpable.
Beyond its religious importance, Baoguo Temple is situated in the beautiful foothills of Mount Emei. This location provides a serene natural backdrop, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The combination of historical depth and natural beauty makes Baoguo Temple a compelling destination for those interested in culture, history, and spirituality.
Navigating Mount Emei and its Surroundings
Getting around Mount Emei involves a network of buses, cable cars, and hiking trails. For those interested in seeing the wild monkeys, it's important to note that they are typically found higher up on the mountain, and while they can be observed from a distance, direct engagement is discouraged due to their unpredictable nature.
When planning your visit, consider how much time you have. A visit to Baoguo Temple can be a half-day excursion, but exploring more of Mount Emei can easily extend into a full day or even multiple days, offering a deeper immersion into the region's natural and spiritual wonders.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit