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Yuantong Temple

Introducing Yuantong Temple
Yuantong Temple is the largest and most active Buddhist temple in Kunming which dates back 1,200 years to the Tang Dynasty. The temple is located in a protected natural depression and in recent years, Yuantong Temple has been expanded with funding from Thailand. In the 1950s, Yuantong Temple hosted a grand ceremony to greet and send on the sacred teeth of the Buddha and so became important in Southeast Asia.

Yuantong Temple Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Yuan Tong Si 圆通寺
• Best Time to Visit: All year around
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 1 to 2 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Buddhism, Architecture
• Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY 6
• Address: No. 30 Yuantong Street, Wuhua District, Kunming, Yunnan Province

What to expect at Yuantong Temple

Yuantong Temple was first built in the late 8th and early 9th century, the time of the Nanzhao Kingdom in the Tang dynasty. After two major restorations and expansion in the Chenghua period (1465-1487) of the Ming dynasty and in 1686 during the reign of the Kangxi Emperor in the Qing dynasty, the temple took on its present design, with covered corridors, bridges and grand halls.

This old temple is noted for its unusual structure which is high at the front and low at the back, From the front archway named "Yuantong Shengjing" (Wonderland), one can behold the entire garden. To the north is the splendid Yuantong main hall. At both sides of the hall are covered corridors running beside clear pools. This structure of a Buddhist hall surrounded by water is unique in China. The main hall maintains the style of the Yuan dynasty architecture. Circling the two central pillars inside the hall are two giant dragons carved during the Ming dynasty. The blue and yellow dragons face each other, as if they are ready to fight.

The stone staircases on both sides of the main hall are carved out of the cliff and are known as the "Caizhilu." From here one can climb to the top of the mountain. Beside the path are the most ancient inscriptions in Kunming. Weathering in the wind and rain for centuries, the characters are still clear today, and they are one of the most important historical relics in the city.
Yuantong Temple enjoys a wide fame in Southeast Asia, and is where one can experience Mahayana, Hinayana, and Tibet Buddhism for its uniqueness.

How to get to Yuantong Temple
• By Metro: take Metro Line 1 and get off at Chuanxin Gulou Station, and then talk around 800 meters to get the temple.
• By Bus: take bus No. 85, 92, 95, 100, 101, 119, 187, 235 or Z5 and get off at Yuantongjie Station; take bus No. 4, 59, 74, 83, 129, 234 or A2 and get off at Yuantongshan Station.
• Rent a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle free private transfer from hotels in Kunming to Yuantong Temple.

Additional travel advice on Yuantong Temple
• Please keep quiet at the temple.
• The temple offers incense for free after visitors buying the entrance ticket.
• The vegetarian lunch at the temple is popular among locals and visitors.

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  1. Tour Highlights
    • Visit Western Hills with cable car for a bird's eye view of Dianchi Lake and Kunming City
    • Visit Grand View Park to appreciate the longest antithetical couplet in China.
    • Visit Yuantong Temple, the largest Buddhist Temple in Kunming
    • Admire the Golden Temple, the best preserved and largest existing copper Taoist temple in China
    • Visit the historical landmark of Kunming, Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways
    • Experience local life at Flowers & Birds Market
    • Experienced English speaking tour guide
    • Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

    About This Tour
    • Departure: Daily departing from Kunming.
    • Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
    • Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
    • Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
    • Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Kunming
    • Advice on Meals : Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.

    Tour Itinerary at a Glance
    • Pick up from your accommodation in Kunming
    • Visit Western Hills (90 minutes)
    • Visit Grand View Park (60 minutes)
    • Visit Yuantong Temple (60 minutes)
    • Visit Golden Temple (60 minutes)
    • Visit Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways (60 minutes)
    • Visit Flowers & Birds Market (60 minutes)
    • Transfer back to your accommodation in Kunming

    Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
    • If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.

    Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)

    1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 +
    $278 $168 $138 $128 $118 $116 $108 $98 $90 $85


    Price Remark
    • Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).

    Price Inclusions
    • Professional English language speaking private tour guide
    • Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
    • All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    • All government taxes

    Price Exclusions
    • Hotel accommodation.
    • Your personal expenses.
    • Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
    • Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
    • Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.

    Additional Info
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
    • The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
    • IMPORTANT : It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.

    Cancellation Policy
    • You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
    • Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

    Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
    • Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
    • GGC private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
    • GGC tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
    • GGC offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
    • No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
    • No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.

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