Caotang Temple

Caotang Temple is a Buddhist temple in Huyi District, Xi'an, built on the northern slope of Mount Guifeng. Its buildings follow traditional Chinese architectural design with multiple halls arranged symmetrically along a central axis.

The temple traces back to 401 when an emperor established a garden to house the Buddhist monk Kumārajīva during his scripture translation work. This early purpose as a translation center gave the place its scholarly character.

This place serves as a working center for Buddhist learning and practice. Visitors can observe how monks maintain traditional spiritual disciplines and study within its halls.

The temple sits on a hillside and is best reached by tourist bus from Big Wild Goose Pagoda on weekends. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the path involves walking uphill through natural surroundings.

The grounds contain a tall stone stupa believed to hold the remains of one of the most influential Buddhist monks of that era. Few visitors realize this monk is considered a founder of Buddhist literature in the region.

Location: Shaanxi

Inception: 1952

Architectural style: Chinese architecture

GPS coordinates: 34.01470,108.73900

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:06