Ciyun Temple, Buddhist temple in Nan'an District, China

Ciyun Temple stands at the foot of Mount Lion in Nan'an District, Chongqing. Its halls include the Shanmen, Heavenly Kings Hall, Mahavira Hall, Hall of Guanyin, Hall of Manjushri and Hall of Samantabhadra, most retaining Tang dynasty architectural style. The Mahavira Hall houses a 1.87-metre jade Sakyamuni statue bought from Myanmar in 1931, flanked by Eighteen Arhats.

The temple was first established during the Tang dynasty and underwent major reconstruction in the mid-1700s under Qing rule, giving it the form visible today. These rebuilding periods shaped the architectural character that remains throughout the present day.

The temple functions as an active center for Chan Buddhist practice and daily meditation, with monks and visitors participating in ceremonies throughout the day. The layout of the halls reflects Buddhist teachings, guiding people through spaces that encourage contemplation and spiritual connection.

The site is easily accessible at the base of Mount Lion and welcomes visitors without charging admission, making it straightforward to explore at your own pace. Information boards throughout the complex explain Buddhist practices and the purpose of different areas, helping visitors navigate and understand what they see.

The 1.87-metre jade Sakyamuni in the Mahavira Hall was bought from Myanmar in 1931 and weighs 1,500 kilograms; it is counted among the four largest jade Buddhas in China. Eighteen arhat statues line the walls on either side of it.