China Dani Biology Science & Technology Museum in Zhangjiajie

Zixia Taoist Temple (紫霞观) is located in Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie City (张家界市武陵源区), along Baofeng Road (宝峰路). It lies in the heart of a scenic area renowned for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Built during the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty (明朝嘉靖年间), Zixia Taoist Temple is a highlight of Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area (武陵源风景名胜区) and seamlessly blends religious tourism with humanistic landscapes. It is classified as a National AAA Tourist Attraction (国家AAA级旅游景区) and serves as the headquarters of the Zhangjiajie Taoist Association (张家界市道教协会会址).

Architectural Wonders of Zixia Taoist Temple (紫霞观建筑群)

The temple complex is an impressive array of grand halls, painted beams, and intricate carvings, all meticulously designed. Within the temple, Taoist deities are enshrined and worshipped. The religious architecture includes:

  • Laozi Out-of-Pass Pavilion (老子出关亭)
  • Sanqing Hall (三清殿)
  • Cihang Hall (慈航殿)
  • Ancestor Altar (祖师坛)
  • Guan Sheng Hall (关圣殿)
  • Jade Emperor Hall (玉皇殿)

The site features 5 halls, 3 palaces, 2 pavilions, 2 temples, and 1 tower, totaling over 30 buildings. Key attractions in the area also include:

  • Eight Immortals Mountain (八仙山)
  • Immortal’s Footprint Stone (仙人足迹石)
  • South Heaven Gate (南天门)
  • China’s Unity Lock (中华同心锁)

The architectural arrangement harmoniously integrates towering halls with delicate pavilions and lush forests, creating a serene and picturesque environment. With a constant stream of incense offerings and pilgrims, the temple is revered as a place of powerful geomancy and spiritual importance. Due to its breathtaking landscape and convenient access, Zixia Taoist Temple has earned the title of “The No.1 Taoist Temple in Western Hunan” (湘西第一观).

The History of Zixia Taoist Temple (紫霞观历史)

Zixia Taoist Temple dates back to the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty (明朝嘉靖年间), boasting a history of nearly 500 years. Though it suffered varying degrees of damage during times of war, the temple was rebuilt in 1992 due to the rise of tourism and the faith of Taoist followers. The reconstruction was supported by donations from devotees and government funding.

The renowned Chinese calligrapher Shen Peng (沈鹏) inscribed the temple’s name, and the site is adorned with calligraphic works and stone inscriptions from both Chinese and international artists. A notable feature is a collection of over 100 illustrations depicting Laozi preaching and enlightening followers (老子教祖讲经说法渡化图).

Legends and Folklore of Zixia Taoist Temple (紫霞观传说)

According to legends dating back over 800 years to the early Southern Song Dynasty (南宋初期), the local ruler Xiang Wang (向王) refused to submit to imperial rule and declared himself an emperor. The court dispatched Yang Clan’s Five Daughters (杨门五女) to suppress the rebellion. Xiang Wang hid in a cave with two female attendants, but the imperial forces collapsed the cave entrance with a cannon, sealing the three inside.

Locals claim that mist resembling rainbow-colored smoke often emerged from the crevices of the collapsed cave at dawn and dusk, believing it to be the mystical presence of the trapped souls.

In the late Yuan Dynasty (元朝末年), a Taoist named Zhang Xuanling (张玄陵) wandered into the area and dreamt of two women standing beneath a pine tree, appearing as celestial beings. One introduced herself as Zi Gu (紫姑) and the other as Xia Gu (霞姑), stating they were attendants of Xiang Wang who had been spiritually liberated by Lü Dongbin (吕洞宾) and had become immortals. They now protected the local people.

Awakening from the dream, Zhang Xuanling shared his vision, and soon a grass hut was built on the site as a religious sanctuary.

In the mid-Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty (明嘉靖年间), a Taoist named Zhang Xiangting (张香庭) lived in the hut. When Hu Guifang (胡桂芳), the regional military commander, passed by, he noticed the spiritual atmosphere and funded the construction of Zixia Taoist Temple.

Though the temple was destroyed by rebels during the late Ming Dynasty (明崇祯末年) and again by military conflicts in the Qing Dynasty (清同治年间), it was always rebuilt by the local community. The modern temple was finally reconstructed in 1992 due to the growing tourism industry in Wulingyuan.

Exploring Zixia Taoist Temple (紫霞观游记)

Approaching Zixia Taoist Temple, visitors are greeted by majestic halls and pavilions nestled among bamboo groves and cypress trees. The tranquil sound of bells and chimes adds to the temple’s ancient charm.

The Laozi Out-of-Pass Pavilion (老子出关亭) is the first structure encountered. The mountain gate bears the inscription:

“The Dao Follows Nature” (道法自然)

Flanking the gate are two poetic couplets:

“Only upon reaching the three thousand peaks does one truly awaken and step upon the clouds;

Amid the eight hundred rivers, the great Dao rushes into the sea.”

Inside the pavilion stands the statue of Laozi Riding a Green Ox (老子骑青牛). Laozi is depicted wearing a Taoist robe, holding a duster, with white hair, a youthful face, thick eyebrows, and a calm expression. The green ox beneath him appears gentle yet sturdy. According to legend, Laozi left the declining Zhou Dynasty during the Spring and Autumn period, riding a green ox westward.

He passed through Hangu Pass (函谷关), where he was asked by Yin Xi (尹喜) to write down his teachings, resulting in the creation of the Tao Te Ching (道德经), a work of 5,000 words advocating the principles of “emptiness, stillness, and following the way of nature.”

The pavilion is also decorated with 100 illustrations of Laozi’s teachings (老子说法度人图), portraying stories from Taoist folklore.

Ascending the zigzagging stone steps, visitors reach Eight Immortals Mountain (八仙山). Statues of the Eight Immortals (八仙) stand proudly — some are nobles, others beggars; some hold swords, while others carry baskets. Each immortal possesses a magical object, such as a staff or a musical instrument.

Folk tradition speaks of the famous tale:

“The Eight Immortals Cross the Sea, Each Showing Their Unique Power” (八仙过海，各显神通)

Though they come from different backgrounds, they all achieve immortality by following the Tao.

Zixia Taoist Temple — Travel Tips 🌿

✨ Zixia Taoist Temple (紫霞观) — A hidden gem of Zhangjiajie that captivates visitors with its stunning scenery and mystical charm!

  • Location: No. 2202, Middle Baofeng Road, Wulingyuan District, Zhangjiajie City (张家界市武陵源区宝峰路中段2202号)
  • Tourist Rating: National AAA Tourist Attraction (国家AAA级旅游景区)
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Transport: Take Wulingyuan Bus Line 1 (武陵源1路) or Wulingyuan Bus Line 1 [Gao Dongping Direction] (武陵源1路[高东坪方向]) and alight at the District Traffic Police Station stop (区交警队站).

⌛️ Recommended Visit Duration: At least half a day depending on your interests.

Embark on a spiritual journey at Zixia Taoist Temple — where history, legends, and natural beauty intertwine! ✨