Location & How to Get There

Shengshou Temple, nestled in the Baoding Mountain Scenic Area of Dazu District, Chongqing, is a hidden gem just 15 kilometers northeast of downtown Dazu. To reach this ancient site, take a 40-minute train or bus from Chongqing’s main city to Dazu, then a short taxi or shuttle bus to the Baoding Mountain entrance. If you’re driving, the temple’s winding mountain road offers stunning views—just follow signs for “Dazu Rock Carvings” and prepare for a scenic hike once you arrive!

Natural Scenery: A Mountainside Oasis

Shengshou Temple sits cradled by lush green hills, with towering trees and fresh mountain air all around. The temple blends seamlessly into its rocky surroundings, making it feel like a secret spot. Nearby, the Baoding Mountain area is famous for its giant Buddha statues carved into cliffs, so you’ll have plenty of nature and art to explore. Morning mists add a mystical vibe, while sunsets paint the temple’s rooftops in golden light.

Cultural Highlights: History & Architecture

This isn’t just any temple—Shengshou Temple dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty (around 800 years ago!) and was built by a monk named Zhao Zhifeng as a Tibetan Buddhist (Vajrayana) center. Though the original temple crumbled, the ones you see today are stunning Ming and Qing dynasty rebuilds.

Wander through its grand halls:

  • Tianwang Hall (guardian gods)
  • Yuhuang Hall (dedicated to the Jade Emperor)
  • Daxiong Hall (home to Buddha statues)
  • Wanshou Tower: A 20+ meter, eight-sided pagoda-style tower added in the Ming era.

Every corner buzzes with history—carved beams, colorful frescoes, and stone tablets tell stories of faith and craftsmanship.

Practical Tips: Visiting Shengshou Temple

  • Opening Hours: Typically 8 AM–5 PM, but check seasonally.
  • Tickets: Included in the Baoding Mountain Scenic Area ticket (around ¥100).
  • Guided Tours: Audio guides rent for ¥30 and explain Buddha carvings and temple lore.
  • Dress Code: Cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
  • Souvenirs: Buy handcrafted Buddha pendants or local tea at the gift shop.

Exploring Nearby: More Than Just a Temple

Shengshou Temple is part of the larger Baoding Mountain complex, home to over 30,000 ancient rock carvings. Don’t miss:

  • Big Buddha Bay: Massive cliff-side sculptures.
  • Thousand-Hand Guanyin: A 7-meter-tall masterpiece.
  • Hiking Trails: Connect to other temples and viewpoints.

What to Expect: A Day at Shengshou Temple

Start at the south entrance—a steep staircase leads to the temple’s iconic gate. Ring the bronze bell for luck, then snap photos of the towering Wanshou Tower against the sky. Inside, the halls are cool and quiet, with flickering incense and soft chants. Spend time in the Daxiong Hall, where a giant Buddha gazes down—it’s both humbling and peaceful.

End your visit by climbing the steps to Wanshou Tower. The view? Rolling hills, forests, and the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time. Bring water and comfy shoes—those mountains aren’t flat!

Why Visit Shengshou Temple?

If you love history, spirituality, or just epic mountain views, this is your spot. It’s less crowded than Chongqing’s other attractions, so you can soak in the tranquility. Plus, learning about how this tiny temple became a hub for Tibetan Buddhism in medieval China adds extra depth to your trip.

Come early, stay late, and let Shengshou Temple’s mix of nature, culture, and calm wash over you. Trust us—it’s worth the journey!