Dali Jizhao Nunnery

Introduction: Overview & Features Located at the southern foot of Shengying Peak in Cangshan Mountain, Dali City, Yunnan Province, Jizhao Nunnery was first built in the early Ming Dynasty but later destroyed during wartime. It was reconstructed during the Republic of China era under the supervision of Yunnan Governor Tang Jiyao, whose calligraphy adorns the existing plaque bearing the nunnery’s name. The name "Jizhao" derives from the Zen Buddhist concept of "silent illumination," emphasizing meditative self-awareness. It is the **only** nunnery in China renowned for its "no incense, only flowers" practice. The grounds are adorned with succulents, hydrangeas, moss, and ancient pines, with hydrangeas blanketing the hillside in late spring and early summer, earning it the title of "China’s **most** beautiful nunnery." Designed by architect Gao Ludong on a modest budget of 5,000 RMB, the nunnery blends Cangshan stone and reclaimed wood to create a serene, Zen-inspired space, making it a spiritual retreat for artists and travelers alike. 🕘 Opening Hours & Tips **Hours:** Open year-round 08:00–17:30 (some sources note 08:30–15:00; check on-site). **Vegetarian Meals:** Lunch 11:30–13:00 (moved to 11:00 on lunar 1st/15th days), Dinner 17:30 (only on lunar 1st/15th days). Adults 20 RMB, children 10 RMB; free on lunar 1st/15th days. **Suggested Visit Duration:** 2.5 hours (includes hiking and dining). **Notes:** - Arrive before 11:40 for meals to avoid queues. Wasting food requires kneeling in the Main Hall for the duration of one incense stick. - Maintain silence; no loud noises, card games, or smoking. - Activities like scripture copying or tea ceremonies require prior staff consultation. 💴 Admission Fees Jizhao Nunnery is free, but Cangshan Scenic Area charges 35 RMB (includes Gantong Cableway zone). Meals and tea services are cash-only; bring small bills. ⛺ Activities & Itinerary **Hike:** 30-minute trek from Gantong Cableway parking lot, passing Gantong Temple (visit ancient tea trees and seven stone steles). **Photography:** Succulents, hydrangeas, and koi ponds are prime spots; light-colored clothing recommended. **Vegetarian Meal:** Exchange donation tickets at the Main Hall for a simple, seasonal vegetable-based meal. **Tea House:** Sip Cangshan tea while soaking in the tranquil views. **Scripture Copying:** Free activity after 13:00; silence required. 🚌 Transportation **Drive/E-bike:** Navigate to "Gantong Cableway Parking Lot" (3 RMB fee), then hike 30 minutes. **Taxi:** ~20 RMB from Dali Old Town; ~40 RMB from Xiaguan. **Bus:** Take Line 4 to Dali No. 2 Middle School, walk 3 km to parking lot, then hike (not recommended). **Cableway:** Gantong Cableway (50 RMB one-way, 110 RMB round-trip, includes Cangshan ticket), but hiking is still required to reach the nunnery. 👉 Suggested Itinerary **Day Trip:** Morning: Jizhao Nunnery (flowers + meal) → Gantong Temple (tea trees/steles) → Polo Temple (3 km hike, 2,700m altitude). Afternoon: Zhenlong Chessboard (chess-shaped landscape) → Qingbi Stream (three-tiered waterfall) → Cangshan Grand Canyon (Jade Belt Road viewpoint). **Accommodation:** - *Shouzhuotang Art Resort:* Cangshan foothills, sea-view rooms, 2.2 km from nunnery. - *Montemar by Qingpu Shanju:* Designer B&B by Erhai Lake, 1.8 km away. 🧡 Packing List **Essentials:** Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, comfortable shoes, cash. **Optional:** Power bank, camera, lightweight water bottle (free drinking water available). **Attire:** Avoid shorts/skirts and sandals; muted colors preferred.