Yuantong Temple

★ 4.7

(48000 reviews)

Kunming's oldest Buddhist sanctuary with over 1,200 years of history, famous for its unique downward-sloping garden architecture.

⚡ Vibe Heritage & Culture

💰 Cost $1

🏃 Effort Easy Walking

Snap' Description

Unlike most Buddhist temples that scale sheer mountain cliffs, Yuantong Temple welcomes you down into a serene mountain depression. This 1,200-year-old sanctuary layout centers around a magnificent octagonal pavilion sitting over a vast pool filled with sacred turtles, bridging Mahayana, Theravada, and Tibetan architectural styles seamlessly.

Getting There

🚇

Metro Info

Chuanxinguluo (Line 2, Exit B) + 10 min Walk

🚕

Taxi Address

昆明市五华区圆通街38号

Navigate

Amap Apple Maps

💎 Insider Tips

⚡
Unlike most temples that climb up mountains, you walk down into Yuantong Temple's central octagonal pavilion.
⚡
The central pond is filled with giant sacred turtles and koi fish; buy some food to feed them.
⚡
The temple combines Mahayana, Theravada, and Tibetan Buddhist architecture in one complex.
⚡
Visit the vegetarian restaurant inside for a healthy, very affordable local lunch.