Jinguang Temple in Yongping County, Dali
Overview
Jinguang Temple (金光寺) is a renowned ancient temple located in the scenic area of Mount Magnolia (木莲花山) in Yongping County (永平县), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. Situated about 50 kilometers from the county seat, it is a AAA-rated tourist attraction that showcases the beauty of the region. The temple is enveloped in lush greenery, surrounded by towering ancient trees and vibrant flora, making it a significant site for both religious pilgrimage and tourism.
- Chinese Name: 金光寺
- Location: Yongping County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China
- Opening Hours: Year-round, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Attraction Level: AAA-rated
- Ticket Price: 10 yuan
- Country: China
- City: Dali, Yunnan Province
- Recommended Duration: One day
- Best Seasons to Visit: All year round
Geographic Location
Jinguang Temple is located in the southwestern part of Yongping County, approximately 40 kilometers from the county seat. Nestled among the evergreen Baotaishan (宝台山), the temple resembles a baby cradled in its mother’s arms, shining like a gem amidst the rolling hills.
Cultural Figures
Above the temple entrance hangs the inscription “滇西名胜” (Famous Scenic Spot of Western Yunnan), handwritten by the renowned cultural figure Mr. Li Genyuan (李根源) from Tengchong County (腾冲县). The temple grounds are meticulously maintained, featuring ancient trees and a plethora of unique flowers, creating a serene atmosphere.
Main Hall
The Great Hero Hall (大雄宝殿) is a striking structure, with its golden decorations and ancient elegance, supported by massive wooden pillars that command respect. The remnants of exquisite carvings from the Ming (明) and Qing (清) dynasties can be found in the intricate flower-patterned gates. Inside, the hall is filled with diverse statues, and the fragrant incense envelops visitors as pilgrims and tourists continually arrive.
History of the Temple
Jinguang Temple has a long and storied history. According to the “Li Chan He Shang’s Records” (力禅和尚语录), the monk Fan Mountain (梵山和尚) encountered a monk named Po Zhu (破麈师) on his journey through Hubei and Guangxi. The monk enlightened him about the treasures of Baotaishan, saying:
“台山宝物，非俗子轻易识知，百为读经，青折念佛，春暖树吐莲花，夏薰竹交玉笋，秋冬二季桂梅斑竹芬菲，野樱山茶馥郁。”
(“The treasures of Baotaishan are not easily known by ordinary people. In spring, trees bloom with lotus flowers; in summer, bamboo intertwines with jade shoots; in autumn and winter, osmanthus and plums fragrance the air; wild cherry and mountain tea abound.”)
He was so enchanted that he built Jinguang Temple, which was completed in the fifth year of the Chongzhen era (公元1628).
Historical Records
After its establishment, Jinguang Temple flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The “Yongchang Prefecture Gazetteer” (永昌府志) records it as the “Ancient Maitreya Dharma Venue.” Notable geographer Xu Xiake (徐霞客) visited the temple in May of the 12th year of the Chongzhen era (公元1639). In his “Diary of Travels in Yunnan” (《滇游日记》), he wrote:
“余至省，即闻此山之盛……规模宏敞，正殿亦南向，八角层甍，高十余丈，地盘数亩。”
(“Upon arriving, I heard of this mountain’s grandeur… The scale is vast, the main hall faces south, and its eight-sided roof rises over ten zhang high, covering several acres.”)
The temple also features the “Stele of the 38th Generation Master Yuhan” (宝台法主临济下第三十八世玉汉和尚功行记碑), which is significant in the lineage of the Buddhist sect.
Historically, pilgrims from Tengchong, Baoshan, and Changning would travel great distances to visit the temple, often taking up to ten days for a fulfilling experience.
Reflecting on its history and looking forward to the future, Jinguang Temple remains a significant Buddhist site in Yongping and Western Yunnan, shining brightly as a gem of cultural heritage.
How to Get There
- By Public Transport:
- Buses and taxis are available from Dali and other nearby cities to Yongping County, making it easy to reach the temple.
- By Car:
- Navigate using GPS to drive to the temple, which is well-marked and easily accessible.
Travel Tips
- Admission Fees: 10 yuan
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year, with each season offering unique beauty.
- Attractions: Explore the temple’s intricate architecture, beautiful gardens, and serene atmosphere.
- Cultural Significance: Jinguang Temple is not only a religious site but also a cultural landmark, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Visiting Jinguang Temple promises a blend of spiritual enrichment and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination in Yunnan.
