Dafo Temple of Zhangye

Overview

Dafo Temple of Zhangye, also known as the Giant Buddha Temple, is a renowned Buddhist temple in Gansu Province. It is famous for its colossal reclining Buddha statue and rich historical artifacts.

The temple is a significant cultural and religious site, showcasing ancient Buddhist art and architecture.

Buddhist Temple Cultural Heritage

Location

Address

Dafosi Ln, Zhangye, China

Neighborhood: Downtown Zhangye

Coordinates

39.134600, 100.433600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

100 CNY

Children

50 CNY (under 1.2m height)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Cherry blossoms
• Temple gardens in bloom

summer

Hot and humid

• Extended visiting hours
• Outdoor performances

autumn

Cool and crisp

• Fall foliage
• Harvest season

winter

Cold and snowy

• Winter decorations
• Holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online in advance
Bring a valid ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

Valid ID Water bottle Printed or digital tickets

seasonal

Jacket or umbrella Scarf and gloves for winter

not allowed

Large backpacks Drones Professional camera equipment without permission

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate, as there is some walking and stairs

• Stay hydrated in summer
• Be cautious on slippery surfaces in winter

Medical facilities: Basic first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash (Chinese Yuan), Credit/Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Typical Costs

entry 100 CNY

parking 20 CNY

food 30-50 CNY

souvenirs 20-100 CNY

Dress Code

Modest and respectful clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, Comfortable walking shoes, Revealing clothing, High heels

Booking Tips

• At least one week in advance for peak seasons
• Official website or authorized ticket platforms
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Zhangye Dafo Temple Official App

Size: 60 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafeteria, Public areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafeteria

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Zhangye Ganquan Airport (YZY)

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 25 minutes

Taxi

50-70 CNY 25 min

Public bus

10 CNY 40 min

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

Bus

2 CNY 15-20 min

Taxi

15-20 CNY 10 min

Bicycle

Free (if you have a bike) 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Dafo Temple is a symbol of Zhangye's rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance

Historical Significance: The temple has been a center of Buddhist learning and worship for over a thousand years

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and fewer tourists
The best local snacks can be found at the food stalls near the temple entrance
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Zhangye Danxia Landform for a full day of exploration

Local Recommendations

• Try the local Gansu noodles at the nearby restaurant
• Visit the Zhangye Danxia Landform for stunning landscapes
• Ask for a knowledgeable local guide to enhance your experience

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello 你好 (Nǐ hǎo)

thank_you 谢谢 (Xièxiè)

where_is 在哪里 (Zài nǎlǐ)

how_much 多少钱 (Duōshǎo qián)

beautiful 漂亮 (Piàoliang)

ticket 票 (Piào)

Guide Languages: Chinese, English, Some local dialects

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Reclining Buddha Hall

Best Time: Early morning light

Tips: Capture the entire statue from a low angle

Result: Impressive and serene image of the giant Buddha

#Zhangye #BuddhistTemple #TravelChina

Temple courtyard

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Use the courtyard's symmetry for a balanced shot

Result: Beautiful architectural details with warm lighting

#TemplePhotography #ArchitectureLover #ChinaTravel

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Public courtyards

prohibited areas Inside prayer halls, Restricted exhibition areas

flash photography Not allowed inside buildings

commercial photography Permit required for professional shoots

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas with permission

selfie sticks Allowed in outdoor areas

Nearby Attractions

Zhangye Danxia Landform

Distance: 30 km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Natural Landmark

Matisi Buddhist Grottoes