Weibao Mountain

Introducing Weibao Mountain

Weibao Mountain is positioned roughly 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) southeast of Weishan County, Dali city. Weibao Mountain stands out as one of the 14 sacred Taoist mountains in Yunnan Province. Its name, “The Mountain of Wei’s Treasure,” reflects ancient beliefs about its abundance.

Spanning an area of 19.4 square kilometers, Weibao Mountain is enclosed by Taiji Peak to the south, the Yanggua River to the west, the Wudu River to the east, and Dali Cang Mountain to the north. With about 20 Taoist temples scattered across its terrain, Weibao Mountain forms a sprawling religious complex, significant not only in Taoism but also as a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. 

Notably, the 20 temples endured significant damage during the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), yet some of their most exquisite artistic treasures were thankfully spared, likely due to their placement in hard-to-reach locations, such as on the ceilings. The temples,  whose architecture dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1912), were recognized as a historical site in 1987. 

The mountain was declared as a national nature reserve in 1992. Its visit remains today a sublime spiritual experience, in which the traveler is transported to natural and religious environments already faded in other places, fostering wisdom and spiritual enlightenment.

Weibao Mountain Fast Facts
• AKA: Weibaoshan Mountain; Wei Mountain
• Chinese Name: WēiBǎo Shān 巍宝山
• Best Time to Visit: Apr, May, Jun, Sept & Oct
• Recommended Visiting Hours: Half day
• Religion: Taoism
• Elevation: 2,509 m (8,231 ft)
• Things to Do: Photography, Hiking, Architecture, Taoism Culture
• Opening Hours: 8:00 to 17:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY40; Free for children under 1.2m (3.9ft)
• Address: Approx. 82 km (51 miles) from Dali, Yunnan Province

History of Weibao Mountain

Historically, Weibao Mountain holds significance as the birthplace of the ancient Nanzhao kingdom, which governed Yunnan Province for three centuries (from the 7th to the 10th century). The kingdom later transitioned into the Dali Kingdom from the 10th to the 13th centuries, representing a period of enduring political, religious, and cultural continuity in the area. 

In 650, Xi Nuluo’s establishment of Mengshe Zhao, or the Kingdom of Mengshe, marked a pivotal moment in the region’s history. Bringing together disparate local tribes, his leadership solidified the area’s governance and laid the foundation for the kingdom’s prosperity. The kingdom’s founding on the Weibao Mountain not only shaped its geographical identity but also symbolized a new era of unity and strength. 

Following Xi Nuluo’s passing, his legacy endured in the hearts and minds of the people. Honored as the Guardian God of the Mountains, his spiritual presence transcended time, becoming an integral part of Yunnan Taoism. As the Guardian God, Xi Nuluo’s influence extended beyond political boundaries, guiding and protecting the land and its people. His reverence underscored the profound spiritual connection between Weibao Mountain and the cultural heritage of the region, ensuring its significance for generations to come.

What to expect at Weibao Mountain

The Weibao Mountain Taoist complex is divided into four sections, each containing groups of buildings connected by pathways. The first section comprises the path from the mountain gate to the “Hall for Inspecting the Mountains”. Flanked by pine trees and tombs of Taoist masters, this smooth path provides a departure from the mundane realm. The second section features the temple complex surrounding the Wenchang Palace, offering a complex and captivating experience within the mountain forest. The third section begins with an ascent route leading to the Three Emperors Hall and Avalokiteśvara Hall, where the path becomes steep and challenging, emphasizing immersion in the mountain scenery. Finally, the fourth section culminates at the Duolao Pavilion atop the hill, providing narrow or expansive views and steep pathways.

Weibao Mountain National Forest Park Gate

It now takes only 20 minutes to reach the entrance gate of Weibao Mountain National Forest Park Gate. This gate, constructed in 1991, is a traditional three-room structure adorned with wooden arches, standing 13 meters tall with 12 meters between the three openings. Inscribed on its facade is “Weibao Immortals Trail 巍宝仙踪,” penned by the president of the Chinese Taoist Association. Stone lions flank the entrance, while the door steps feature an image of two fish in a taiji diagram.

The Ancestral Temple of the Kings of Nanzhao Kingdom

Perched atop the mountain, the temple, also known as the “Hall for Inspection of the Mountains”, symbolizes the profound connection between the Nanzhao Kingdom and Taoism. Legend has it that the Venerable Supreme Sovereign honored Xi Nuluo with the title of Guardian of the Mountains. Within the temple’s courtyard, the Ancestral Treasure Hall houses revered ancestral tablets, including those of Xi Nuluo and other family members. In the central hall, Xi Nuluo is worshipped amidst solemn rituals, while couplets on the walls recount the founding tale of the Nanzhao Kingdom. Flanking the central hall, two pavilions showcase sculptures of the kingdom’s 13 rulers, accompanied by brief biographies, attracting history enthusiasts seeking insight into the kingdom’s rich heritage.

Wenchang Palace

Wenchang (god of literature) Palace, also known as Dragon Pond Hall, holds a historical legacy in Han Dynasty (202 BC–220 AD) when it was revered as a sacred site for dragon worship and rain rituals. In Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), it was reconstructed into a Taoist temple, taking on the name “Wenchang Palace”.

The palace complex encompasses several notable structures such as the Mountain Gate, the Hall of the Gods, Wenchang Hall, Kuixing Pavilion, Hall of the Golden Armor, Dragon Pond, and Wenlong Pavilion.  Notably, the Dragon Pond captivates with its tranquil setting, teeming with swimming fish and lush greenery, earning recognition as one of Weibao Mountain’s eight scenic wonders. Moreover, the picturesque Wenlong Pavilion, nestled amid the Dragon Pond, entices visitors with moss-laden stone bridges, casting an enchanting aura. Supported by 16 columns and crowned with a double roof featuring six corners, the pavilion houses a central statue of Wenchang, flanked by sculptures depicting the two attendants known as “Heavenly Deaf” and “Earthly Dumb.” Moreover, the walls of the Wenlong Pavilion are adorned with exquisite Qing dynasty murals, adding to the site’s historical and aesthetic allure.

Lingguan Hall

Lingguan Hall stands as a charming yet petite temple. Within its courtyard thrives a camellia tree, rooted since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and soaring to a towering height of 19 meters(62 ft). Every spring, this majestic tree bursts into bloom, painting the surroundings with vibrant red flowers, each as large as a bowl. Positioned behind it resides the Hall of Lingguan, housing a deity depicted with a stern countenance befitting a guardian. In one hand, he brandishes a menacing sword, while the other points skyward, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to safeguarding the entire cosmos.

Taizi Hall

The Taizi Hall, constructed during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), is a modest Buddhist temple. Inside, the main hall houses a statue depicting Sakyamuni’s transition to monkhood when he renounced his noble status. Revered for its reputed ability to aid in reproduction, this statue attracts a steady stream of visitors, particularly locals. Their offerings, driven by the desire for offspring, ensure the temple remains a popular destination for worshippers paying their respects regularly.

Cave of the Eternal Spring

The Cave of the Eternal Spring or Changchun Cave is established in 1715 on the western slope of Weibao Mountain. Contrary to its name, it is not a cave but rather a revered temple where legends suggest that immortals once sang Taoist songs. The temple showcases exquisite Taoist paintings and intricate wood carvings, housing over 200 artworks that blend religious motifs with local culture. Its layout, featuring nine buildings and ten courtyards arranged according to the Taoist Bagua diagram, adds to its significance.

How to get to Weibao Mountain

• Weibao Mountain is located 82 km (51 miles) away from Dali city center.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free private transfer to the Weibao Mountain.