Chengdu Daci Temple: Finding Zen in the Heart of the Busy City

While the spicy aroma of hotpot fills Chengdu’s streets and the clinking of teacups sets a relaxed rhythm for daily life, there is a quiet sanctuary hidden in plain sight: Daci Temple in Chengdu.

Founded nearly 1,800 years ago during the Three Kingdoms period, Daci Temple Chengdu was once the place where the legendary monk Xuanzang—the real-life inspiration for Journey to the West—was ordained. Today, it stands as a rare urban Buddhist temple, where ancient faith and modern city life coexist naturally. For travelers, Daci Temple is not just a historical site, but one of the most unique temples to visit in Chengdu.

I. A Journey Through History: “The First Forest of the East”

The history of Daci Temple dates back to the 3rd century. According to legend, it was built under the supervision of the famous general Zhang Fei. During the Tang Dynasty, the temple received imperial support and expanded dramatically, once covering vast land with more than 8,000 rooms.

At its peak, Daci Temple Chengdu rivaled some of China’s most influential Buddhist centers. Its murals were said to be as impressive as those in Dunhuang, earning it the title “The First Forest of the East.”

• Xuanzang’s Spiritual Starting Point:
  At just 19 years old, Xuanzang officially became a monk at Daci Temple. Before embarking on his historic journey to India, this temple was his spiritual home. Today, visitors can explore the Xuanzang Memorial Hall, where maps, scrolls, and exhibits reveal the real history behind the legend.

II. Daily Zen: Why Do Locals Still Come Here?

Unlike mountain temples or secluded monasteries, Daci Temple in Chengdu feels deeply connected to everyday life. From early morning, students in uniforms, elderly residents carrying grocery bags, and office workers on their way to work quietly step inside to light incense or make a short prayer.

This sense of “everyday faith” is what makes Daci Temple special among Chengdu’s Buddhist temples.

What do people pray for here?

• Success and Studies: Students often leave pens or notebooks at the Hall of Manjusri, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, hoping for good exam results.
• Love and Relationships: Young couples tie red ribbons at the Moonlight Bodhisattva Hall, praying for harmony and a happy future.
• Health and Well-being: Seniors regularly visit the Medicine Buddha Hall to pray for the health of their families.

How to visit respectfully:

• Cleanse your hands: Use the bamboo ladles at the entrance to rinse your hands, symbolizing the release of worldly worries.
• Walk clockwise: When circling a Buddha statue, always keep it on your right side.
• Copy a Sutra: Free brushes and paper are available. Spending 20 quiet minutes copying scriptures is a calming and meaningful experience.

III. Practical Guide: Visiting Daci Temple Chengdu

• Location:
  Daci Temple is located inside Taikoo Li, Chengdu’s most modern shopping district (No. 7 Dongfeng Road). The contrast between ancient red walls and luxury storefronts makes it one of the most photographed urban temples in China.
• Getting There:
  • Metro: Line 2 or Line 3 to Chunxi Road Station (Exit C), then a 5-minute walk
  • Bike: Shared bikes are widely available and offer a pleasant ride through Taikoo Li
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
• Tickets: Free admission (QR code registration required at the entrance)

Things to Experience:

• Zen Tea: For around ¥28, enjoy traditional tea in the courtyard while listening to temple bells.
• Vegetarian Lunch: Served from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM for ¥30, using ingredients grown in the temple’s own gardens.
• Cultural Workshops: On Saturday afternoons, Daci Temple often hosts workshops such as Thangka painting or herbal sachet making (reservation recommended).

IV. Souvenirs: Taking the Calm Home

The gift shop at Daci Temple Chengdu offers tasteful souvenirs that blend tradition with modern design:

• Blessed Bracelets: Sandalwood or crystal bracelets priced between ¥50 and ¥300.
• Zen Bookmarks: Brass bookmarks engraved with Buddhist wisdom—ideal gifts for readers.
• Temple Snacks: “Zen Cookies” and preserved fruits, packaged with hand-drawn temple maps.

V. Personal Reflection: Finding Stillness in the City

I still remember my first visit to Daci Temple. After wandering through the bright lights and luxury stores of Taikoo Li, I turned a corner and suddenly faced the temple’s quiet red walls. The scent of incense blended naturally with the smell of coffee from a nearby café.

Sitting in the courtyard with a cup of tea, listening to temple bells echo above the city noise, I realized this is the essence of Chengdu—a place where the sacred and the everyday exist side by side.

Quick Tips:

• Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience
• Photography is allowed in gardens and courtyards, but not inside Buddha halls
• Avoid unofficial fortune tellers outside the temple gates

If you’re tired from shopping or city crowds, step into Daci Temple in Chengdu for a moment. You may find your own rhythm returning under the shade of ancient trees. Furthermore, to explore more highlights of a Sichuan journey, don’t miss our page on Chengdu Tourist Attractions!