Zhongnan Mountain ancient buddhist temple

The ancient Goddess of Mercy Temple on Zhongnan Mountain in Xi’an was originally built during the reign of Tang Taizong Li Shimin (628 A.D.). At that time, it was well established, covering about 300 Mu. It had the front gate, the main hall, the bell and drum tower, and the rooms for lodging. Everything needed was ready. It is one of the thousand-year-old ancient temples on Zhongnan Mountain.

Behind the rear courtroom of the Hall of the Goddess of Mercy is a big plateau. In the middle of the plateau stands a ginkgo tree. It is more than 20 meters high, with a 3-meter diameter. The branches of the tree are luxuriant, so zigzagging as to be able to blot out the sunlight. According to legend, Tang Taizong Li Shimin planted the tree personally. So far, it has had a history of more than 1,400 years. This shows the long history of the Goddess of Mercy Temple.

From late fall to early winter, yellow leaves fall from the ancient ginkgo tree and cover the ground like a golden carpet. People, who come to see the fallen leaves, flood the place.

Location: Banluohandong Village, East Street, Chang’an District, Xi’an

Transport: Take bus No. 921 or Tourist bus No.1 and get off at Xiangyushizi Station, and walk southward for15 minutes to get the scenic area.

Opening hours: 8:00-17:00

Admission fee: Free