Location & How to Get There

Qinglong Temple Site Museum sits on the high plateau of Leyouyuan (Happy Wandering Heights) in Yanta District, Xi’an. It’s nestled near the trendy West Film Road, just a 15-minute drive from the city’s iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda. To reach it:

  • By metro: Take Line 3 or 4 to Tang Paradise Station, then transfer to a taxi or bike.
  • By bus: Buses 19, 41, or 45 stop nearby.
  • Driving: Park at the entrance (free) and follow signs uphill.

Natural Scenery: A Hilltop Escape

Qinglong Temple Site Museum isn’t just history—it’s a breathtaking hilltop retreat. The plateau offers panoramic views of Xi’an’s skyline, especially magical at sunset. In spring, cherry blossoms turn the temple grounds into a pink dream, while autumn paints the leaves in fiery reds. Bring your camera! The view from the old stone pagoda ruins is a postcard-perfect backdrop for photos.

Cultural Treasures: A Glimpse Into History

This site was once the heart of Qinglong Temple, a Tang Dynasty Buddhist hub tied to Japan’s Shōtō Sect. Though the original temple vanished, the museum’s ruins and reconstructed halls tell its story. Explore:

  • Ancient foundations: Walk across stone slabs where monks once chanted.
  • Statue fragments: See weathered Buddha heads and pillars, relics of a bygone era.
  • Japanese pavilion: A gift from Japan, symbolizing the temple’s influence on their culture.

Offbeat Highlights: More Than Just Ruins

Beyond history, Qinglong Temple Site Museum offers quirky charm:

  • Cherry blossom festivals: In April, join locals for hanami (flower viewing) under blooming trees.
  • Hidden streams: Follow a tiny creek downhill to find serene spots away from crowds.
  • Sunset yoga: Some visitors spread mats on the grassy slopes for a peaceful practice.

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Entrance: Free! (Though donations are welcome.)
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM–5 PM (winter) or 6 PM (summer).
  • Facilities: Clean restrooms, a small café with tea, and shaded benches for breaks.
  • Accessibility: Mostly flat paths, but the hillside location means some stairs. Wear comfy shoes!

Why Visit? A Local’s Perspective

Qinglong Temple Site Museum feels like a secret escape within Xi’an. Unlike crowded attractions, it’s peaceful—perfect for slow wandering. History lovers will geek out over the ruins, while photographers can snap endless shots of cherry trees, ancient stones, and city skylines. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid tour groups. Combine it with a trip to the nearby Han Dynasty Memorial Park for a full cultural day.

Bonus: The site’s name, Leyouyuan, literally means “Happy Wandering Heights”—a nod to poets who once praised its beauty. Wander freely, and you’ll get why.