Guanyinqing Scenic Area in Binchuan County, Dali
Overview of Guanyinqing
Guanyinqing (观音箐) is located in the western part of Binchuan County (宾川县), approximately 12 kilometers from the county seat. Known as the “West Gate” of Binchuan, it is part of the Daying Township (大营镇) and the Pulianpeng Administrative Village (普连棚), situated at an elevation of 1,670 meters. The area boasts a pleasant average temperature of 25°C and receives an annual rainfall of 600 mm. With its lush vegetation and abundant sunlight, Guanyinqing is an ideal location for summer retreats and tourism. It is conveniently located 19 kilometers from the county seat and 40 kilometers from Xiaguan (下关), acting as a crucial transport hub on the road from Xiaguan to Panzhihua (攀枝花), Dukou (渡口), Yongsheng (永胜), Huaping (华坪), and Jizu Mountain (鸡足山). The area offers excellent transportation links, being just half an hour from Dali Airport (大理机场) and the railway station.
Unique Tourism Resources
Guanyinqing possesses distinctive tourism resources characterized by its unique natural environment and significant cultural background. The area is seen as the “backdoor” (前檐) of Jizu Mountain, a pilgrimage site for Buddhist followers. The saying, “不烧回头香，枉朝鸡足山” (“If you don’t burn the return incense, your pilgrimage to Jizu Mountain is in vain”) highlights its spiritual importance, especially on the 19th day of the second lunar month, when throngs of devotees visit, ensuring that the incense offerings at Guanyin Pavilion (观音阁) remain vibrant.
Visitors can savor local specialties at nearby eateries, with dishes like “Pao Pi Ni Qiao” (泡皮泥鳅) and “Long Quan Shuan Yang Rou” (龙泉涮羊肉) having been recognized at the Dali Food Culture Festival in 2004. Guanyinqing has evolved into a prime destination for tourism, adventure, leisure, and dining, attracting countless visitors drawn by its charm.
The area is enriched by its unique Buddhist cultural significance, distinctive cuisine, simple folk customs, and the beautiful natural scenery of Kongtong Mountain (崆峒山). Local initiatives are underway to develop Guanyinqing into a tourist village that integrates sightseeing, leisure, dining, and cultural experiences.
Guanyinqing Temple Fair and Architecture
Guanyinqing is located 20 kilometers southwest of Binchuan County. It is bordered by the “Dayong” Expressway to the west and Fengtai Road (凤太公路) to the east, with the ancient village of Shuichang (水长古村) to the east and the steep cliffs of Kongtong Mountain to the north. The area is characterized by fragrant orchids, ancient trees, towering cliffs, and unique rock formations, where the soothing sounds of temple bells and chants fill the air. A poem describes its beauty:
“青山绿水险峰峨，幽静寺院从中落。
虽非海外蓬莱岛，仙境仙造万古磨。”
From the valley, one can observe the formidable rocks and ancient trees, with the sound of nature providing a serene backdrop. Walking along the stone paths of Guanyinqing, visitors may hear the melodious calls of birds and insects, creating an enchanting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a picturesque painting.
Guanyinqing is home to several notable buildings, including Guanyin Pavilion (观音阁), Thunder God Temple (雷神殿), Wenzu Zen Temple (文祖禅院), and Pudu Bridge (普渡桥). Historical inscriptions date back to the 14th year of the Jiajing Era (1535) and the 49th year of the Kangxi Era (1710), adding to its cultural significance.
Architectural Highlights
The Guanyin Pavilion is constructed atop a cliff behind the Wenzu Zen Temple, known as a “hanging temple” (悬空寺). The pavilion is uniquely secured by iron chains on its eastern, western, and northern sides, standing as the only ancient Buddhist structure in Binchuan built on a perilous cliff. Its elegant architecture features a single-eaved pavilion structure, with the roof gracefully extending outward, reminiscent of a celestial being poised to ascend.
Upon entering Guanyin Pavilion, visitors are greeted by a magnificent statue of Guanyin. Legend has it that the original statue was a rare sandalwood carving offered by the daughter of Zhu Yuanzhang (朱元璋) during her pilgrimage to Jizu Mountain, though its current location is unknown.
Festivals and Local Culture
Guanyinqing has become a popular destination for incense offerings, particularly during the birth anniversary of Guanyin Bodhisattva on the 19th day of the second lunar month. Visitors from Kunming (昆明), Dali (大理), Lijiang (丽江), Eryuan (洱源), and Binchuan flock to the area for scenic views, prayers, and local delicacies. The roads leading to the site are lined with vendors selling local products, snacks, and souvenirs, creating a lively atmosphere filled with laughter, chanting, and local music.
In February 1989, the Binchuan County government designated Guanyin Pavilion as a cultural heritage site, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Location
- Address: 40 kilometers from the county seat of Binchuan, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province (云南省大理州宾川县州府下关40公里)
Opening Hours
- Open all day
How to Get There
Guanyinqing is easily accessible via road. Visitors can drive or take public transport from Xiaguan (下关) or other major cities in Yunnan Province. The nearest airport is Dali Airport, which connects to various cities across China.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local dishes at roadside eateries, which offer a taste of authentic Yunnan cuisine.
- Respect Local Customs: As a spiritual site, visitors should be respectful during their visit, especially during religious ceremonies.
- Bring Cash: Some local vendors may not accept credit cards, so it’s advisable to carry cash for purchases.
