Baiyun Guan

Frommer's Review

Originally built in 1863 in a different location, and moved here in 2004, this temple is one of only two Daoist temples in China to possess the precious Ming Dynasty Daoist Scripture (daozang) -- the other is the much larger Baiyun Guan in Beijing. The two-story temple is housed in a courtyard building with red walls, lattice windows and doors, and a beautiful ornamented roof. Incense-bearing supplicants pray before a dizzying array of gilded Daoist deities, each entrusted with a specific cause. If your timing is right, you may be able to catch a Daoist service, which is highly ritualized, often resembling pageants complete with music, chanting, and processions of monks in colorful robes.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.