Chang’an Temple of Badachu Park in Beijing

Overview

Chang’an Temple长安寺, originally known as “Shan Ying Temple” (善应寺) and also referred to as “Wanying Chang’an Zen Temple,” was established in the 17th year of the Hongzhi era of the Ming Dynasty (1504). In 1659, during the Shunzhi era of the Qing Dynasty, a devoted layman sponsored renovations. The temple was further rebuilt in 1671 under the supervision of Gong Dingzi, the Minister of Rites. According to an inscription by Gong Dingzi, the temple was described as “grand and remarkable.” Inside the front hall, there is a bronze statue of Guan Yu (关羽), and in the south corner of the rear hall, a pair of bronze bells is inscribed with “Made in the 28th year of the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty, on a lucky day in November.” These bells have been preserved for nearly 400 years. A bronze bell in front of the Sakyamuni Hall is also from the Ming Dynasty, dating even further back. The architectural layout of Chang’an Temple is that of a two-courtyard quadrangle, with symmetrical buildings. The temple faces east, with the front hall dedicated to Sakyamuni and the rear hall for the goddess. Historically, Chang’an Temple was renowned for its sculptures among the temples in Xishan. The temple features 500 statues of Arhats, vividly portrayed, inspired by murals painted by a craftsman named “Hao Bu Xin,” who was granted this name by the Xuanzong Emperor during the Ming Dynasty.

Historical Background

Records from the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty indicate that “the temple contains four unique pines. The entrance has ten heavenly soldiers, presenting an extraordinary sight, and beneath the eaves, there are 500 Arhats.” Although the 500 Arhats can no longer be found, this highlights the former prestige and appearance of Chang’an Temple.

Scenic Attractions

Chang’an Temple is one of the famous “Eight Great Places of Xishan” (西山八大处). This area, located in the eastern part of Cuiwei Mountain (翠微山) in Shijingshan District, Beijing, features winding mountains and lush peaks, offering stunning scenery throughout the year.

Notable Scenery

A poem praises the landscape:
“Cuiwei connects to ancient lands,
With stone steps winding through quiet paths.
The bright sun illuminates the valleys,
While long winds caress the skies.
Monks return to temples before yellow-leaved peaks,
As waters flow toward the Green Dragon’s mouth.
The path to Chang’an is five feet high;
Who says this place diminishes Yizhou?”

Three Mountains, Eight Temples, and Twelve Sceneries

• Three Mountains: Cuiwei, Pingpo, and Lushi.
• Eight Temples: Chang’an Temple, Lingguang Temple (灵光寺), Sanshan An (三山庵), Dabi Temple (大悲寺), Longquan An (龙泉庵), Xiangjie Temple (香界寺), Baozhu Cave (宝珠洞), and Zhenguo Temple (证果寺).
• Twelve Sceneries: Features breathtaking views such as distant peaks, spring mountain apricot forests, and autumn leaves.

Since 1978, significant repairs have been undertaken with state investment, leading to the introduction of various red-leaf tree species, creating Beijing’s second red-leaf scenic area. By 1984, over 60,000 saplings, including torch trees, were introduced and thrived, revitalizing the Eight Great Places.

Current Situation

Chang’an Temple is located just over a mile south of the main entrance to Badachu Park, nestled against Cuiwei Mountain, facing east, and enclosed by red walls in a two-courtyard quadrangle. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a stone wall inscribed with “Entering the Joyful Land.” Following the westward path, several steps lead to the temple’s gate hall, which houses a statue of Guan Yu, also known as the “Hall of Guan Gong.” The rear includes the “Mahavira Hall” and the “Great Master Hall,” arranged symmetrically. The two white-bark trees in front of the Great Master Hall are particularly striking, thriving despite hundreds of years of history.

Transportation

Public Transport

• Bus Routes: Take bus lines 347, 389, 598, 972, or 958 to Badachu Park Station (八大处公园站).

Subway

• Transfer Stations: You can transfer to buses between Bajiao Amusement Park (八角游乐园) and Apple Garden Station (苹果园站) to reach the park.

By Car

• Driving Directions: Exit at Badachu on the West Fifth Ring Road (西五环路八大处出口) and drive approximately two kilometers along Badachu Road (八大处路); or exit at Four Seasons Green (四季青) on the West Fourth Ring Road, then follow Xing Shikou Road (杏石口路) to Badachu Road. The parking area is within 100 meters of the entrance, with three parking lots available, accommodating a total of 1,200 vehicles.