White Horse Temple: First Buddhist Temple in China
The White Horse Temple is the first Buddhist temple built in China and one of the most impressive religious and cultural sites in the country. Hailed as the birthplace of Chinese Buddhism, it was created in 68 CE by Luoyang's Han Dynasty and contains priceless relics, like a 13-meter gilded Buddha, and historic pagodas. Anyone interested in getting a true understanding of the importance of Buddhism in Chinese history and culture should consider visiting the White Horse Temple.
White Horse Temple in Luoyang
White Horse Temple Basic Information
A hall of Buddhas in White Horse Temple
The White Horse Temple is located in Luoyang, in the country's central Henan province, and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It's been a cultural staple of China for 2,000 years and includes relics from the Han, Jin, Ming, Qing, and Song dynasties.
- Ticket Prices: 35 RMB (5 USD) for adults and 17.50 RMB (2.50 USD) for children.
- Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the winter and 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the summer.
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Plan to visit: 2-3 hours to see everything.
Recommended Tour Itinerary
Top Things to Do at White Horse Temple
If you're interested in ancient history and religion, you'll find plenty of things to see and do at the White Temple. Each new room holds valuable relics that tell the story of China's dynasties. These top things to do are some of the most fantastic and unique aspects of White Horse Temple. We recommend that visitors prioritize these experiences, especially if their time at the temple is shorter.
Visit the Main Temples and Different Buddhas
Worship to the Buddhas in the temple
The Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of the Great Buddha, and the Hall of Mahavira are all must-visit areas of the White Horse Temple. You can light incense, pray to the various Buddhas, and even have a cup of tea and take a short rest. The Hall of Heavenly Kings, also known as Deva-Raja Hall, contains a marvelous Maitreya Buddha statue and eight large statues representing the Heavenly Kings and protective figures.
Find the towering 13-meter Sakyamuni Buddha in the Hall of the Great Buddha, along with ancient carvings and gilded decorations. This hall is the most sacred spot in White Horse Temple. Finally, visit the Hall of Mahavira, where you can see 18 Arhat statues, 3 Buddhas, and 2 generals. One of the most distinctive aspects of this area is the Wordless Teahouse, where visitors can sip free tea right inside the main temple area. It's a quiet, contemplative spot where visitors drink their tea in silence.
Admire the Qiyun Pagoda
The Qiyun Pagoda is the first ancient pagoda in China, a 35-meter-high brick building that dates back to 1175 C.E. You can walk around the pagoda and admire its structure and surrounding environment. This activity will be one of the highlights of your visit.
Additionally, you'll find plenty near the pagoda's base, including ancient inscriptions and gorgeous shrubbery and trees. It's a contemplative, nice place to rest and soak up history.
Explore the International Temple Zone
Thai style temple in the Zone
One captivating aspect of the White Horse Temple is its International Temple Zone, where you can see temples built in the styles of India, Thailand, and Myanmar. As they're near the exit, we recommend that you visit them on your way out of the site if you have time. While they're not "must-see" temples, they are memorable and will give you a deeper understanding of global Buddhism.
How to Visit White Horse Temple
A traditional pavilion at White Horse Temple
For an essential tour, make sure to visit the main temples, including the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of the Great Buddha, and the Hall of Mahavira. If you have time, we highly suggest starting at Qiyun Pagoda, visiting the main temple area, and heading to the International Temple Zone. Talk to our team, and let us come up with a customized route that's right for you.
How to Get to White Horse Temple
The easiest way to get to Luoyang is by high-speed train. The Luoyang Longmen East train station is roughly 40 minutes away from White Horse Temple by taxi. You can also take bus lines 56 or 58, both of which take 80 minutes to reach the temple.
| City | Train Station | Trip Duration | Number of Trains Daily |
| Beijing | Beijing West Station | 3 hours | Trains leave hourly |
| Xi'an | Xi'an North Station | 1 hour 30 minutes | Trains leave hourly |
| Shanghai | Shanghai Hongquio Station | 5 hours 41 minutes | Trains leave hourly |
Travel Tips
These travel tips will help you have the most stress-free and enjoyable time at White Horse Temple. We're happy to talk to you about any specific concerns you might have, also.
- You can rest in wheelchairs for free at White Horse Temple's main entrance and ticketing area.
- The paths inside White Horse Temple are well-maintained and flat, so they're easy for elderly visitors and people with limited mobility to get around.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds.
- It's important to dress properly and modestly while visiting the temple. Be sure to cover your shoulders and legs, and don't wear flip-flops or slippers.
- To avoid crowds, visit during the morning on weekdays, and avoid weekends and national holidays.
- Bring cash if you want to purchase incense inside the temples.
- Do not photograph worshiping people or monks inside the temples or around the temple complex.
Discover the Birthplace of Chinese Buddhism
The ancient White Horse Temple is one of China's top religious wonders, the earliest of its kind, and a special holy place for pilgrims from around the world. Plus, it's easy to get there by train from any of China's major cities. Let us help you explore this remarkable place on your Chinese vacation. Visit our contact page or email us at trip@odynovotours.com and get started today.
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