[2025 Dali Attraction] Travel Guide for Wuwei Temple (Updated Apr)

“Action and inaction, shore and shorelessness, dwelling in the dragon's abyss, the heart reaches the other shore.” Yes, this is the Wuwai Temple where Duan Yu became a monk. Hidden deep in the Cangshan Mountains, this thousand-year-old temple attracts countless people with its ancient, tranquil, and secluded atmosphere. I ate the temple's free vegetarian meal, drew water from the Jiuyi Spring, and basked in the sun on Lingjiu Mountain all morning. The fresh air was invigorating, and the feeling was wonderful 💙. Here's a guide: Reserving a Vegetarian Meal Mealtime: Around 11:30 am daily. It is recommended to arrive early. Reservation method: Phone reservation: Search online for the Wuwai Temple guest hall phone number to make a reservation. It is recommended to book 1–2 days in advance. Cost: Free. But if you can, bring some vegetables, rice, and flour. Drawing Water from the Jiuyi Spring Spring location: Located below the mountain gate of Wuwai Temple, about a 5-minute walk away. Water drawing time: Open all day. It is recommended to go in the morning for better water quality. Water drawing tools: You can bring your own water bottle or use the public water ladle next to the spring. Spring water benefits: Legend has it that the Jiuyi Spring water has the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying, relieving summer heat, and quenching thirst. Many people take it back to boil and make tea. Transportation: Self-driving: Navigate to "Wuwai Temple Parking Lot." The parking fee is CNY 10 per visit. Public transportation: Take bus No. 4 from Dali Ancient City to "Wuwai Temple Intersection" and walk for about 20 minutes. Riding an electric scooter is also very convenient. Opening hours: 8:00 am–5:30 pm Tickets: Free Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hrs Wuwai Temple is located in the Cangshan Mountains, where the climate is changeable. It is recommended to bring rain gear and warm clothing. Please keep quiet inside the temple and do not make loud noises. I hope this helpful guide can help you better plan your trip to Wuwai Temple in Dali~!

On the side of Cangshan Mountain in Dali, there is an ancient temple full of time and Zen - Wuwei Temple. It is like a pearl of the world, quietly exuding a mysterious and charming brilliance. Stepping into Wuwei Temple, the buildings in the temple are simple and elegant, and the red walls and yellow tiles are solemn and solemn against the green trees. The air is filled with a faint smell of incense, which makes people feel calm instantly. Walking along the path in the temple, admiring the surrounding buildings and scenery, immersed in the tranquility and harmony of this ancient temple The dining order here is orderly, with eight people at a table, silence throughout, and no photos allowed. Everyone waited quietly until the monks of the temple began to chant. In the melodious chanting, a sacred and solemn atmosphere spread, and everyone listened quietly with awe. At that moment, only the chanting of the monks echoed in the entire hall, and the sound seemed to have a magical power that made people feel awe.

We chose to visit the thousand-year-old Wuwei Temple in Dali during the Lunar New Year to pray for the health and safety of our family members and good luck in the Year of the Snake! Where to go during the Lunar New Year? Visit the beautiful and quiet Wuwei Temple in Dali. It's a peaceful and comfortable place. We took our family and children to Wuwei Temple in the afternoon when the weather was warm. My 82-year-old mother-in-law is a vegetarian and a Buddhist, and she likes to visit temples. This short trip was perfect for her. 🚗 When we drove to the lower parking lot of Wuwei Temple at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, we considered that it would be too tiring for the elderly to walk up the mountain, so we tried to drive directly to the parking lot behind Wuwei Temple. However, we were stopped by the Cangshan Forest Fire Prevention checkpoint halfway up the mountain, and no vehicles were allowed to go further. We had no choice but to return to the lower parking lot (free parking) and then hike up the mountain along the stream. It took us about half an hour to reach Wuwei Temple. 🌈 During the Lunar New Year, Wuwei Temple is sparsely visited, making it a great place for a quiet visit. The tall and sturdy "Tang Fir" trees are still as beautiful and awe-inspiring as ever. The main hall of the temple was also quiet, and my mother-in-law had prepared some change for donations. After silently praying, she wanted to "greet the Buddha" and kneel to pray one by one. Considering her age, we thought it was enough, but she insisted on completing her goal, and her devotion was admirable. 🌹 Travel tips: ◆ After December each year, Cangshan Mountain enters the forest fire prevention period, and Wuwei Temple is closed to visitors after 2 pm. ◆ The practice field is closed to visitors and photography is not allowed inside the main hall of Wuwei Temple.

In winter, there is heavy snow in the north, but Dali still has blue sky and white clouds. In the quaint Bai courtyard, leaning against Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, lying in the countryside to bask in the sun 🌞, it is so comfortable. Life should be lived in the present. Don't linger on the past, and don't think too much about the future. Stop and pay attention to your feelings, listen to the voice of your heart, drink tea, chat, bask in the sun, listen to songs, see the scenery, and practice yoga with three or five friends in Chaoguang Farmhouse in winter. Hidden in nature, this is a quiet resting place, hidden among the green countryside and woods, surrounded by trees, with mountains in the distance, morning mist and evening haze, Erhai Lake rippling with blue waves, the sea and sky are one color, watching the sunrise in the morning and the sunset in the evening, the scenery of the four seasons is different, here allows the soul to rest and coexist harmoniously with nature, it is a secluded paradise in the hustle and bustle. In addition to the comfortable accommodation experience, you can also experience a variety of outdoor and cultural activities, such as hiking in Cangshan Mountain, visiting the most beautiful nunnery - Jizhao Temple, visiting the small but beautiful royal temple - Wuwei Temple, etc. You can also experience the farming activities of the local Bai people in Dali, learn the Bai traditional handicrafts of tie-dyeing and Jiama, taste the local authentic farm dishes of the Bai people, the Bai three-course tea, etc. You can also visit various markets, enjoy the natural beauty and experience the simplicity and fun of rural life! Every stop is a baptism of the soul, where you can find the long-lost tranquility and freedom, and regain your own rhythm and direction!

Dear family, today I will take you to a secret place in the deep mountains of Dali - Wuwei Temple. Here, time seems to stand still, every brick and tile is filled with Zen, and every ancient tree tells the whispers of history. 🌲[Ancient Temple Serenity] In the embrace of Cangshan Mountain, Wuwei Temple quietly tells a thousand-year-old story. Here, you can feel true tranquility and inner peace. 💧[Jiuyi Spring] Known as the nectar of life, Jiuyi Spring flows quietly, as if it can wash away the noise of the world. 🌉[Yuehan Bridge] Under the Yuehan Bridge, the water flows gently, and the ancient bridge and the flowing water reflect each other, making it a great place for taking photos. 🌳[Tang Fir] The Tang fir in the ancient temple has witnessed countless years, and every leaf carries the sediment of time. 🗿[Stone Buddha Statue] The solemn and majestic stone Buddha statue makes people feel awe and experience the tranquility and solemnity that transcends time and space. Here, you can let go of the troubles of the world and feel the Zen of "when false is true, true is false, when there is no action, there is no action." The beautiful scenery along the way is unforgettable.

🌸 The secret realm of Dali, Wuwei Temple, a hiking paradise that even locals can't get enough of! 📍🚙 First, set your navigation to 'Wuwei Temple Parking Lot'. There's no need for tickets here, and you don't have to worry about parking issues. Everything is so casual and free. 🌿🚶‍♀️ Reasons to recommend? Too many! 1️⃣ Follow the stream, with babbling water, and you can play in the shallow water. 2️⃣ A flat stone path all the way, an excellent choice for family hiking, leisurely strolling, and you can reach it in less than an hour. 3️⃣ Picturesque scenery, lush greenery, and a touch of coolness even in the summer heat. 4️⃣ During the picking season, mountain mushrooms await your discovery. 🌟🍄 Travel Tips: ✔ From the parking lot to the right, you will face a choice: the left is a stone staircase, and the right is a stream path. I recommend you take the right, let the song of the stream accompany your steps. ✔ Vegetarian meal, you can't miss this! Remember to book one day in advance, the time is 8:00-18:00 (no reservation needed on the first and fifteenth of the lunar month). ✔ Along the small road next to Wuwei Temple, after passing the stone plaque of 'Wuwei Shengjing', you will find Jiuyi Spring, where the spring water is extremely sweet and worth a try. ✔ If you have enough time, you might as well visit the Cangshan Nature Image Museum, where more secrets of nature are waiting for you to discover. ♻️🌱 Environmental reminder: Don't forget to bring a trash bag, let's leave only footprints, not garbage.

Dali, a highly cost-effective travel destination, offers free scenic views of wind, flowers, snow, and moon, and affordable food and entertainment. During the National Day holiday, let's avoid the crowds and explore Dali's hidden gems. 1. Windmill Mountain, navigate to Yangliu Village Meadow The highland meadow under the blue sky and white clouds, complemented by white windmills, is a perfect spot for camping, photography, or simply relaxing. This is your last chance before the mountain closes. 2. Yunxiang Mountain, navigate to Luji Park Not far from the city, Yunxiang Mountain is an excellent viewpoint to overlook Erhai Lake and Xiaguan. The white chapel outside Luji Park is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. 3. Ecological Corridor, navigate to Taoxi Wetland The Ecological Corridor is rarely visited, surrounded by lush lawns and babbling streams. In the evening, it becomes the most beautiful haven. 4. Weishan Ancient City, navigate to Xinggong Tower in Weishan Ancient City Want to experience a less crowded yet historically rich ancient city? Weishan, the birthplace of the Nanzhao Kingdom and a city of gourmet food, awaits your exploration. 5. Wuwei Temple, navigate to Wuwei Temple Parking Lot While Jizhao Nunnery is crowded, Wuwei Temple remains tranquil. Also located at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, the vegetarian meals here are free, but remember to book in advance. 6. King Kong City, navigate to Taihe City Ruins You need to hike up to reach the glass platform, a hidden viewpoint in the mountains offering a breathtaking view of Dali. 7. Nuodeng Ancient Village, navigate to Nuodeng Ancient Village The hometown of Nuodeng ham, featured in 'A Bite of China,' is a thousand-year-old Bai ethnic village built on the mountainside, ancient and serene. 8. Dalangba, navigate to Tianchi Scenic Area A hidden gem deep in the mountains, with vast lawns and forests, herds of cattle and sheep, offering a healing escape from the city. Dali Travel Tips: - Early autumn in Dali is sunny with strong UV rays, so sun protection is essential. Bring a hat and sunscreen. - Dali's attractions are scattered, so it's recommended to rent a car, hire a car, or take a taxi for more flexibility and convenience. - For accommodation, Dali Ancient City or Caicun are recommended for their convenience. Dali's specialty foods include rice noodles, erkuai, xidoufen, and rushan. - Recommended souvenirs include flower cakes and Dali specialty milk powder to make your trip memories sweeter. This National Day, let's find tranquility and beauty in Dali.

Address: 460 meters west of Yinqiao Mine Line, Dali City, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province Wuwei Temple was first built in the 9th year of Zhenyuan Period in Tang Dynasty (793 AD). Its founder, Candorajita, was a monk from Western India. During the Nanzhao period, he came to the foot of Vulture Peak from India and built a hut to practice Buddhism at Gelao Cliff under Lanfeng Peak. Gelao Cliff, commonly known as Old Eagle Cliff, got its name because there is a rock beside Yinxian Creek that looks like a vulture spreading its wings ready to fly. It is the place where Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva practiced. Because of his profound Taoist knowledge, Zando was appointed as the national teacher by King Luo Feng when he first arrived in Nanzhao. After Feng died, Yi Mouxun, in the ninth year of Zhenguan, expanded the scale of the temple and rebuilt it on the site of the original ancient temple two miles in front of Gelao Cliff to support Zando's preaching and benefiting sentient beings.

Wuwei Temple, established during the Tang Dynasty, was renovated and expanded multiple times during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. 'Wuwei' is a Buddhist term, also known as 'action through inaction', and is the opposite of 'youwei' (action). There is a verse that says: With action and without action, with shores and without shores, one's body resides in the dragon's abyss, yet the heart reaches the other shore. The entire Wuwei Temple is very serene, with amiable monks and sweet spring water that cures diseases. It gives one the feeling of a tranquil life where time flows effortlessly in eternal spring, far superior to that of the lonely what's-its-name hermitage. Especially the idea that inaction is an action in itself, some friends might take it as a sign that it's okay to slack off at work with peace of mind, haha

With the calmness of a thousand-year-old temple and the tranquility of being content with whatever happens, Wuwei Temple truly embodies what is meant by "doing nothing and yet achieving something". It is said that ten emperors of Dali became monks here, including Duan Yu, which adds a sense of historical solemnity to this place. Taxi Navigation: Wuwei Temple Parking Lot After arriving at the Lingjiu Mountain Gate, you can go up the mountain on either the left or right road. I personally prefer the right road, which goes up along the stream. There are wild flowers, flowing water, small bridges and woods. It is full of wild fun, and you don’t have to climb stairs. It takes about twenty minutes to walk up. ! Note: You cannot go up the mountain after 2pm! route: [Lingjiu Mountain Gate] [Yuehan Bridge] [Tangshan] [Wuwei Temple] [Jiuyi Spring] Wuwei Temple does not charge any fees. If you want to donate, remember to exchange cash. Vegetarian meals are also free, but you need to call in advance to make an appointment. It is said that there are 8 people at each table, and the meal will start on time at 12 noon. You must abide by the rules when you go there. The master will chant sutras for the meal, and you have to wash the dishes yourself after eating. Turn right from the parking lot and walk up. There is a [Cangshan Natural Image Museum], which is free and can be regarded as an underwater photography exhibition. I personally don’t think it’s very interesting, but you can go there if you are interested in photography. There is also a cafe inside, where it is nice to sit down and rest when you are tired of shopping. Wuwei Temple

I love the Zen temple in Dali the most. The dream of a secluded temple in the deep mountains and forests It's exactly like the scenes in ink paintings A stream winds its way directly to the mountain temple Not many tourists From June to September, you can also pick mushrooms. ✅ About Wuwei Temple Founded in the ninth year of the Tang Zhen Guan era (793 AD), by the founding master Zan Tuo Jue Duo, who came from India to Ling Jiu Mountain in the Nanzhao Kingdom to practice and establish the temple. "To act or not to act, to have shores or not, to live in the dragon pool, to reach the other shore in mind." According to the 'Duan's Palace History', more than 20 emperors of the Dali Kingdom, 10 became monks at Wuwei Temple. The Duan Yu family from 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils' practiced here. 📍 Address: 150 meters east of Yunnan Province Dali City 023 Township Road 🚗 Navigation: 1⃣️ Hike up the mountain along the stream: Navigate to "Wuwei Temple Parking Lot" 2⃣️ If you don't want to climb, go directly to the back door of the temple: Navigate to "Wuwei Temple Internal Parking Lot (Entrance and Exit)" ⏰ Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 06:00-18:00 💦 There are three springs behind Wuwei Temple (Jiuyi Spring), it is said that the middle one is sweeter, you can try it! Every day people come with large buckets and small bottles to collect water ✅ Hiking Guide 🌿 Route (same way down the mountain): Navigate to "Wuwei Temple Parking Lot" → Ling Jiu Mountain Plaque → Right path up the mountain (follow the stream) → Yue Han Bridge (with koi pond) → Tang Fir → Wuwei Temple (left is Wuwei Victory Scenery, middle is the main hall, right is the Medicine Buddha Hall) ⏰ Duration: 30min hike 🌿 The hike is not difficult, just bring a bottle of mineral water to go up the mountain, stream tracing, flower viewing, there are shades of trees along the way, very cool! ✅ Free Vegetarian Meal Guide ‼️ Need to call and reserve before 18:00 the day before 🥗 Line up at the Wuguan Hall entrance at 11:45 on the day (small door on the right of the Daxiong Hall), meal starts at 12:00 🥗 8 people per table, 5 dishes 1 soup. Keep silent, clean plates, and help wash dishes together after eating ✅ Nearby Attractions 📍 Cangshan Natural Image Museum: Only 200m from the hiking parking lot. Free. Not much related to Cangshan, it's about wildlife images from around the world 📍 Big Green Tree Coffee: 4th floor of Cangshan Natural Image Museum. Overlooking Erhai Lake with a great view 📍 Liuyuan Coffee House: 1km from the hiking starting parking lot. Prices from 6-30, coffee is free, there's also alcohol, family banquets on the 24 solar terms days~ The key is you can also pet cats and dogs, and it's suitable for working ✅ Dali Ancient Town 1-Day Route 10:00 Depart from the ancient town → 10:30 Wuwei Temple Parking Lot → 11:00 Wuwei Temple, stroll around → 12:00 Vegetarian meal → 13:30 Cangshan Natural Image Museum → 14:00 Big Green Tree Coffee/Liuyuan Coffee House Follow me and don't get lost Continuously exploring niche destinations + fun experiences + authentic food

Sharing a route suitable for lying flat in Dali My friend says This kind of 'wasted' lifestyle Is exactly the retirement life they desire 💅This was a worry-free occasion for hosting my friend Z, no need to travel far Booked a comfortable guesthouse, lay flat for 5 days If you also plan to lie flat in Dali for a few days You can refer to our 'wasted' way of lying flat 🫰I really must praise myself, the guesthouse I booked for my friend was complimented many times, pure sharing, no ads 🏡Dali Clouds·Secret Inn ✔️Average cost 300+/day, includes breakfast for two, coffee cake afternoon tea, free experience of Dali hand-brewed tea; ✔️The yard is planted with lots of flowers, green plants, walking in the yard feels like moving through a tropical rainforest; ✔️Z was surprised by the pets in the store, the cats and dogs are too cute, very obedient and affectionate, truly a paradise for family lovers; ✔️There are many public areas in the yard, great for taking photos; ✔️What satisfied us was that the tea room in the store allows customers to try the tea, my friend and I came every day to enjoy a lot of good tea; 🌿My friend's 5-day 'wasted' retirement life in Dali, those who want to lie flat in Dali for a few days can take this as a reference: Day1 Sleep until waking up naturally～Eat wild mushroom hotpot in the ancient town～Walk to the guesthouse～Take a nap～Drink afternoon tea Day2 Go to Dali's worthy morning market, have breakfast, buy fruits and vegetables～Cook at the guesthouse～Drink tea, pet cats, take photos Day3 Bring a picnic mat to Gusheng Village～Bike🚴🏻‍♀️～Enjoy snacks and the sea breeze～Drink afternoon tea at the guesthouse～Drink the owner's homemade plum wine at night Day4 Bring tea sets to Cangshan Mountain, brew wild tea at Wuwei Temple, eat vegetarian food～Afternoon stroll at Longkan Wharf Day5 Watch the sunrise (sunshine on Cangshan) on the guesthouse rooftop～Take a nap～Return trip 🛵About transportation ✔️If staying in the ancient town for a few days, consider renting a small electric scooter, convenient for getting around; 🥘About what to eat ✔️If you're alone, try various rice noodles and bait blocks; ✔️With friends, you can enjoy wild mushroom hotpot, barbecue, Bai ethnic cuisine, grilled fish;【Homepage has a collection of local Dali restaurants frequented by locals, available if needed】 🌿Other travel tips ✔️In Dali, keep it simple, just enjoy, don't rush, rushing won't let you experience the true essence of slow living; ✔️Old saying always goes: sunscreen sunscreen sunscreen‼️ After seeing too many hurried travel guides to Dali, isn't it nice to occasionally try a 'wasted' way of playing?! 💃🏻I am Herbal Rong 2, lacking in waves, sharing the beautiful world I see with you, keep the passion, continuously update, see you in the next post

As I stepped into Wuwei Temple, it felt as if I had traveled through a tunnel of time, entering a tranquil and mystical fairyland. Wuwei Temple, this ancient monastery hidden deep in the Cangshan Mountains, with its simple and elegant architecture and profound cultural heritage, deeply attracted me. The moment I walked into the temple, I felt drawn by a mysterious force. The glazed tiles shone brilliantly under the sunlight, as if sparkling with a rainbow's light, dazzling to behold. The Buddha statues inside the temple were solemn and dignified, with compassionate faces, as if whispering secrets of a thousand years. Standing quietly in front of the Buddha statue, a sense of reverence surged in my heart, as if I could feel the peace and tranquility emanating from the statue. Wandering through Wuwei Temple, it was as if I could hear the echoes of history gently ringing in my ears. The bluestone paths under my feet, weathered by the years, exuded an ancient charm. Every tile, every wooden beam, seemed to tell of past glories and the passage of time. I tried to explore the stories and legends forgotten by time in the quiet atmosphere, to feel the ancient tales and stories. The natural scenery of Wuwei Temple was intoxicating. The temple was surrounded by shaded green trees and fragrant flowers, as if I were in a natural oxygen bar. Strolling along the path, I admired the surrounding beauty, feeling the gifts of nature. A gentle breeze caressed my face, bringing a hint of coolness, refreshing the spirit. Standing at a high point of the temple, overlooking the entire Cangshan Mountain range, I saw layers of mountains shrouded in mist, as if I were in a magnificent landscape painting. At Wuwei Temple, I also experienced the joy of Zen meditation. Sitting in the quiet meditation hall, I closed my eyes, took deep breaths, and tried to merge my spirit with nature. In that moment, I felt an inner peace and tranquility, as if I could hear the breath of nature, feeling the vastness and infinity of the universe. During the meditation, it was as if I underwent a spiritual cleansing, helping me to better understand the true essence of life. This trip to Wuwei Temple not only allowed me to appreciate the solemnity and mystery of the ancient temple but also let me experience the profound depth of Buddhist culture. Here, I found inner peace and tranquility, and I reflected more deeply on my own life. The journey to Wuwei Temple was an unforgettable spiritual trip that was very rewarding and made me cherish every moment even more. Wuwei Temple is truly a place that makes one linger and forget to return. Whether it is believers seeking inner peace or tourists who love exploring historical culture, everyone can find their joy and gain here. I believe this trip will become a beautiful memory in my life, forever etched in my heart. Wuwei Temple

If you want to avoid the crowds in Dali and explore the tranquil mountains on foot, gaze at Erhai Lake from Cangshan Mountain while enjoying a pleasant afternoon tea, and experience the local people's fun, you'll definitely like this hiking route! ·Hike to the 'Wuwei Temple', which is quieter than the Jizhao Temple, enjoy a vegetarian meal, brew a pot of mountain spring water tea, and feel the tranquil and secluded forest with the babbling brook along the way, picking mushrooms🍄 ·Under the big tree at 'Wuwei Mountain Residence', facing Erhai Lake, quietly enjoy afternoon tea, and experience Dali towards the clouds☁️ 🚶Hiking route: Park at Wuwei Temple parking lot——Hike up the mountain all the way——Wuwei Temple——Hike down the mountain behind Wuwei Temple——Wuwei Mountain Residence/Wuwei Bookstore 📕Tips： 1️⃣ Dali often has showers, we encountered three showers along the way, and the temperature in the mountains is much lower than in the city, so it is recommended to be well prepared 2️⃣ Wuwei Mountain Residence/Wuwei Bookstore are together, one is a bookstore and the other is a guesthouse, but the scenes in pictures 1 to 3 are on the large lawn of Wuwei Mountain Residence, it is recommended to navigate directly to Wuwei Mountain Residence, consumption is required here, the average cost is 68/person for a tea set, but personally I think the scenery is more important than the tea itself～ 3️⃣You need to book a vegetarian meal at Wuwei Temple one day in advance