Location & How to Get There

Gulong Temple sits in the heart of Huanglongxi Ancient Town, a hidden gem in Chengdu’s Shuangliu District. To reach this peaceful spot, you can take the metro to Huangguanshan Station and hop on a short bus ride (around 40 minutes) or taxi straight to the town. If you’re driving, plug in “No.85 Huangjin Road, Huanglongxi” into your GPS—the temple’s red walls and flying eaves will greet you as you enter the historic area.

Natural Beauty: A Green Oasis

Nestled by a river and surrounded by lush trees, Gulong Temple feels like a time capsule. Three massive ancient banyan trees stand guard near the temple, their twisted roots and sprawling branches creating shaded nooks perfect for quiet moments. The air here is crisp, especially early morning or late afternoon, when the sun paints the temple’s rooftops golden. Nearby, the sound of water from the ancient Foyin Weir (a canal system) adds to the calming vibe—ideal for picnics or casual strolls.

Cultural Treasures: History Meets Hollywood

Gulong Temple isn’t just old—it’s packed with stories. This temple, built centuries ago, mixes Buddhist spirituality with local governance history. Inside, you’ll find a rare “Three-County Magistrate’s Office” (a government hub for nearby regions) that once handled everything from farming disputes to flood control. But here’s the fun fact: this spot doubles as a movie star! Over 200 films and TV dramas have been shot in Huanglongxi, earning it nicknames like “China’s Hollywood.” Keep an eye out for familiar scenes—you might stumble upon a film set during your visit!

Must-See Spots Inside the Temple

  1. Ancient Theater: Right next to Gulong Temple, this wooden stage hosts traditional Sichuan operas. Even if you don’t catch a performance, the carved details and old-school lanterns are worth a photo.
  2. Three-in-One Courtyard: The temple’s crown jewel combines a classic Buddhist hall, the magistrate’s office, and a giant banyan tree in one space. It’s like stepping into a living history book.
  3. Red-Wall Photo Op: The temple’s main hall has vibrant red doors and eaves, which look amazing in pictures—especially when framed with the green trees behind.

Eat, Shop, Stay: Practical Tips

After exploring Gulong Temple, wander through Huanglongxi’s cobblestone streets. Try dan dan noodles or spicy rabbit head (a local favorite) at street stalls. For souvenirs, the shops near the temple sell hand-painted fans and clay figurines. If you want to extend your trip, cozy riverside inns offer rooms with views of the weir’s lanterns at night.

Insider’s Advice for Visitors

  • Best Time: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, or come early/late to catch softer light for photos.
  • Interact: Locals love chatting with tourists—ask shop owners about the town’s film history or try a tea-making demo.
  • Hidden Gem: Walk 5 minutes from Gulong Temple to the Longtai Hand-Pulled Noodles spot for a taste of authentic Sichuan cuisine.

Whether you’re into history, nature, or just escaping the city, Gulong Temple offers a slice of old China with a cinematic twist. Pack comfy shoes, bring a camera, and get ready to feel like you’ve stepped into a movie yourself!