Laojun Cave Taoist Temple, Chongqing – Ticket Price, Opening Hours, Transportation, and Highlights

The history of Laojun Cave Taoist Temple traces its roots to the Three Kingdoms period during the Han Dynasty. It was formally established during the late Sui and early Tang Dynasties, making its legacy span over 1300 years. Records indicate that in the Tang Dynasty, it may have been a Buddhist temple known as “Guanghua Temple.” Simultaneously, it was also believed to be a temple dedicated to Tushan, the wife of Emperor Yu. In 1480, it underwent a major renovation and further expansions took place in the winter of 1574. Following the turmoil at the end of the Ming Dynasty, it transitioned into the management of Taoist priests and was officially renamed “Taiji Palace” (commonly known as “Laojun Cave”).

Perched at an elevation of 600 meters, Laojun Cave Taoist Temple offers a breathtaking vista of Chongqing city. To reach the temple, one must ascend a steep stone staircase to the left of the Qingniu Cliff. Upon reaching the summit and sitting on one of the benches or leaning against a railing, visitors are greeted by a continuous cool breeze. Looking down, the various temple buildings and lush greenery are layered upon one another, and the fragrant smoke of incense wafts from the front of the Three Purities Hall. Gazing into the distance, one can witness the sprawling city of Chongqing, especially the central Yuzhong Peninsula, with its towering skyscrapers. The Yangtze River and Jialing River, like glistening ribbons, meander through the urban forest, creating an ideal vantage point for sightseeing and photography.

The main hall of Laojun Cave Taoist Temple is the Three Purities Hall, which was originally built in the 16th century during the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty. This hall has a history of over five hundred years and is dedicated to the worship of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), the highest deities in Taoism. In the center of the hall, an image of Laozi, the Supreme Old Lord, is flanked by statues of Nanji Xianweng (the Southern Pole Elderly Lord) and Beiji Ziwei Dadi (the Northern Pole Purple Subtlety Grand Emperor). In front of the hall, there is an exquisite stone tablet from the Ming Dynasty known as the “Five Dragons Holding the Saint.”

The Putuo Rock Carvings are ancient relics from the Ming Dynasty and depict various stories and legends. These carvings vividly illustrate the tales of Guanyin rescuing those in dire need, King Wen seeking wisdom, Boya playing the zither, the legend of E Huang Nü Ying visiting Emperor Shun, and Li Yaxian’s act of blinding himself to persuade others to study. These remarkable carvings hold significant historical and cultural value.

Laojun Mountain is adorned with dense clusters of ancient pine and cypress trees, their majestic branches reaching skyward, casting deep shadows and an air of serenity over the area. It serves as an idyllic retreat for those seeking solace, meditation, scripture recitation, or a respite from the summer heat. Visitors flock to this heavenly sanctuary, creating a vibrant atmosphere, and the temple is always filled with the sweet scent of incense.

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