Dailuoding Temple (黛螺顶), located on Mount Wutai, is a renowned ancient temple with a rich history and unique characteristics. Originally known as Qingfengding, the temple underwent several name changes before finally being named Dailuoding in the 15th year of Emperor Qianlong’s reign during the Qing Dynasty. The temple’s history dates back to the Ming Dynasty, specifically the 20th year of the Wanli Emperor’s reign.
Situated on the eastern side and facing west, Dailuoding Temple covers an area of nearly 27,000 square meters and houses over 50 buildings. The architectural style of the temple is both elegant and majestic, with a carefully arranged layout along the central axis. The main structures include the Paifang (archway), the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Zhantan Hall, the Hall of the Five Manjushris, and the Mahavira Hall. Unlike other temples, Dailuoding Temple features both a Zhantan Hall and a Hall of the Five Manjushris. In the Hall of Heavenly Kings, Amitabha Buddha is enshrined, flanked by the Four Heavenly Kings and with Weituo Bodhisattva standing behind.
Dailuoding Temple is also known as the “Little Pilgrimage” site. In Mount Wutai, there are five peaks, each with a statue of Manjushri Bodhisattva. Pilgrims who visit all five peaks to worship the statues of Manjushri Bodhisattva are said to complete the “Great Pilgrimage.” However, this requires significant physical endurance and ample time. Dailuoding Temple simplifies this process by replicating and housing the five Manjushri statues within the temple. The central statue represents Manjushri from the central peak, the left one from the northern peak, the right one from the southern peak, while the left altar holds the statue from the eastern peak and the right altar the one from the western peak. By visiting Dailuoding Temple and worshipping these five Manjushri statues, devotees can complete the equivalent of the “Great Pilgrimage,” hence the term “Little Pilgrimage.”
Getting There
- Via the Wisdom Road: After arriving at Taihuai Town, take the sightseeing bus (the ticket includes both the fare and the entrance fee) to the base of Dailuoding. From there, ascend the stone steps to the temple. This path, known as “Wisdom Road,” consists of 1,080 steps and stretches approximately 500 meters. It is believed that those who walk this path will gain wisdom and intelligence, making it the most popular choice among visitors.
- Via the North Slope: Alternatively, you can hike up the North Slope, which offers a gentler incline but is slightly longer and more winding compared to Wisdom Road.
- Via the Horse Trail: To the left of the ticket office for the sightseeing bus, you’ll find a horse trail. After walking about 100 to 200 meters on this trail, you’ll reach a set of steps leading to a stone-paved path. Taking this route can save you some time, with the hike taking around 30 minutes to reach the temple.
- Cable Car: For a quicker and more comfortable ascent, you can opt for the cable car. The fare is ¥50 for the uphill ride and ¥35 for the downhill ride. The cable car operates from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though these hours may vary slightly depending on the season. Note that the cable car may be closed from December to February.
