Step into Jingjue Temple and feel the ancient serenity in Kunming's hustle! Nestled by Green Lake, this 300-year-old gem stuns with vermilion walls glowing under golden rooftops, especially when morning chants echo through centuries-old cypress trees. Don't miss the Hall of 500 Arhats where mischievous stone carvings come alive – locals swear rubbing the belly of the Laughing Buddha brings luck! Pro tip: Visit at sunset when lotus-shaped lanterns cast magical shadows, and you might catch monks feeding flocks of white doves in the courtyard.




















Everything you need to know about Jingjue Temple
Consider staying at Kunming Yunnan Grand Hotel, just a 15-minute drive from Jingjue Temple. This hotel blends Bai architectural design with modern amenities, offering rooms with panoramic views of the Western Hills. Complimentary shuttle service connects guests to the temple, perfect for early morning prayers or evening moon viewing.
Alternatively, Dianchi Hot Spring Resort provides private courtyards and natural hot springs, ideal for unwinding after visiting the temple. It offers a unique fusion of eco-leisure and Buddhist culture, enhancing your spiritual journey in the heart of Yunnan.
The most convenient option is taking Metro Line 3 to "West Bus Station," then transferring to Bus 64 bound for "Jingjue Temple Stop," a journey of about 40 minutes. For comfort and flexibility, Didi Chuxing or taxi services take around 25 minutes and offer scenic views of Dianchi Lake and urban greenways.
Many tour groups also provide private car transfers with guided commentary, ideal for first-time visitors. Additionally, bike rental stations near the temple allow for a peaceful, eco-friendly ride through suburban landscapes—perfect for travelers seeking a slow travel experience and tranquil connection with nature.
Jingjue Temple hosts morning bell and evening drum ceremonies on the first and fifteenth days of each lunar month, where visitors can participate in scripture copying, lamp offerings, and other rituals, immersing themselves in a solemn meditative atmosphere.
The temple features a Zen Tea Room offering guided one-day meditation sessions led by monks, including sitting meditation, tea tasting, and mindful reflection—deepening understanding of the principle of pure mind.
Additionally, the annual Flowering in Peace Festival in spring combines Buddhist art exhibitions with workshops in incense crafting, allowing guests to create their own sandalwood bracelets or protective amulets as meaningful souvenirs. These experiences enrich cultural insight while adding profound spiritual depth to your journey.
Near Jingjue Temple, Xishan National Forest Park is a top choice for families. The park features children’s ecological trails and nature observation posts, perfect for parent-child exploration of local flora and fauna. A gentle hiking path leads to the Luohan Cliff viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Dianchi Lake and Kunming city.
The lakefront greenway along Dianchi allows families to rent bicycles, with picnic areas and shaded rest pavilions along the route—ideal for relaxed outdoor time together. Nearby, Yunnan Ethnic Village showcases traditional architecture and customs of various ethnic groups; children can join hands-on activities like embroidery workshops and ethnic dance lessons, making learning fun and memorable for all ages.
Try Jingjue Vegetarian Hall, located just left of the temple entrance, run under monk supervision. Dishes feature seasonal vegetables and wild mushrooms, prepared using traditional methods that preserve natural flavors—popular choices include "Pine Mushroom Tofu Stew" and "Vegetarian Eight Treasure Rice." The serene setting, simple décor, and ambient chanting enhance the meditative dining experience.
Another option is Yunshang Teahouse, nestled by Dianchi Lake, specializing in Zen-inspired teas and dishes. Signature items like "Pu-erh Braised Chicken" and "Tea-Scented Glutinous Rice Balls" incorporate local Pu-erh tea into creative, healthy recipes. Paired with house-made herbal teas, it offers a distinctive wellness-focused culinary journey perfect for health-conscious travelers.
Jingjue Temple is open to the public without prior reservation, but it's advisable to arrive before 9:00 AM on weekends or holidays to avoid peak crowds. For special events such as ceremonies or meditation courses, registration via the official WeChat account or on-site sign-up is required—each session limits attendance to 50 people, with spots filled quickly.
Photography is prohibited inside the temple, especially during rituals or near Buddha statues, to maintain reverence. Visitors are encouraged to wear simple, neutral-colored clothing as a sign of respect. Lockers and cloakrooms are available for storing personal belongings, ensuring a smooth and dignified visit.
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