1. Overview
Qingyang Palace (青羊宫), a AAAA-rated Taoist complex in Chengdu’s Qingyang District, spans 48,000㎡ with 1,800+ years of history. Originally named Qingyang Si (Green Goat Temple), it was rebuilt in 1667–1671 (Qing Dynasty) after wartime destruction. Revered as the "Southwest’s First Taoist Jungle", it integrates worship, art, and philosophy, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
2. Historical Significance
- Legends: Linked to Laozi, who allegedly met disciple Yinxi here after gifting the Tao Te Ching. A bronze goat (Laozi’s mount) is said to have manifested as a divine messenger.
- Imperial Patronage: Tang Emperor Xizong renamed it Qingyang Gong ("Palace") in 881 CE after sheltering here during rebellions. Qing Emperor Kangxi funded its reconstruction.
- Cultural Heritage: Noted for its well-preserved Qing-era architecture and its role in Taoist scholarship, including housing rare scriptures such as the Dao Zang Ji Yao.
3. Key Attractions
- Eight Trigrams Pavilion: A wooden marvel without nails, symbolizing "round heaven, square earth." Its 8 dragon-carved pillars and glazed dome reflect Taoist cosmology.
- Bronze Goats: The unicorn-goat (fusion of 12 zodiac animals) and its twin are worshipped for luck. Donated by Qing scholar Zhang Penghe in 1723.
- Sanqing Hall: Main hall housing the Taoist Trinity (Yuanshi, Lingbao, Daode Tianzun). Features a 3-ton bell and 1-ton drum used in rituals.
- Hunyuan Hall: Honors Taishang Laojun (Laozi) with 28 columns representing celestial constellations.
4. Cultural Impact
- Taoist Hub: Hosts annual Laozi Festivals and meditation retreats. The adjacent Erxian Temple trains Taoist clergy.
- Art & Relics: Houses Ming-Qing murals, the "Dark and Light" water vats (tilt mysteriously when circled), and stone carvings of immortals.
5. Visitor Experience
- Best Time: March–November; avoid summer crowds.
- Activities:
- Tea ceremonies in courtyard gardens.
- Calligraphy classes transcribing Taoist texts.
- Tickets: ¥10 (free for seniors 60+); audio guides in English/Japanese.
6. Practical Information
- Address: No. 9, Section 2, 1st Ring Road, Qingyang District.
- Transport: Metro Line 5 to Qingyang Palace Station (Exit C/D).
- Hours: 8:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30).
- Nearby: Wuhou Shrine (3 km), Kuanzhai Alley.
Awards:
- Sichuan Key Cultural Site (1961).
- CNN’s "Top 10 Taoist Temples in China" (2023).
For updates: Chengdu Tourism.
