Yongjin Temple in Tonghai County, Yuxi

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Yongjin Temple (涌金寺) is located on Xiushan Mountain (秀山), Tonghai County (通海县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is the highest structure on the mountain, and the name “Yongjin” derives from the resemblance of the mountain’s shape to a “Golden Lotus Emerging from the Earth” (地涌金莲). Xiushan Mountain (秀山) is known as “the most graceful mountain in southern Yunnan” (秀甲南滇). The peak rises to an altitude of 2060 meters, and the scenic area covers 7.6 square kilometers.

History and Culture

Yongjin Temple (涌金寺) was first built during the Jiaxi reign (嘉熙年间, 1237–1240 AD) of Emperor Lizong (理宗) of the Song Dynasty, and reconstructed during the Zhizheng reign (至正年间, 1340–1368 AD) of Emperor Huizong (惠宗) of the Yuan Dynasty. The temple has a history of nearly 800 years. According to legend, gold was discovered when the ground was dug to build the temple, hence the name “Yongjin” (涌金, meaning “gold gushing”). The temple faces north, which is rare in Chinese temple architecture. It was once a major site for the Huayan School (华严宗) in Yunnan and later became a place where five branches of Chan Buddhism (禅宗五派) alternately presided.

Local Customs

Tonghai County (通海县) is rich in ethnic customs, with events like the Torch Festival of the Yi people (彝族火把节) and the Huashan Festival of the Miao people (苗族花山节). Xiushan Park (秀山公园), where Yongjin Temple (涌金寺) is located, is also a significant place for local leisure and religious rituals.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Tonghai County (通海县) features a mid-subtropical, semi-humid, plateau monsoon climate with mild winters and warm summers. The best times to visit are during summer and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its best.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

Yongjin Temple (涌金寺): About 2–3 hours. The temple features grand architecture and ancient trees such as Song Dynasty cypress (宋柏) and Yuan Dynasty fir (元杉).

Gubai Pavilion on Xiushan Mountain (秀山古柏阁): About 1 hour. Built using traditional Song Dynasty construction methods from Yingzao Fashi (《营造法式》), the structure uses mortise and tenon joints without nails.

Qingliang Terrace (清凉台): About 1 hour. A serene and famous viewpoint on Xiushan Mountain (秀山).

Tickets

Yongjin Temple (涌金寺): Free admission.
Xiushan Park (秀山公园): Full ticket 10 CNY/person; Half ticket 5 CNY/person.

Transportation

By car: From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速), total distance about 138 km, approximately 2 hours’ drive.
By public transport: Take a long-distance bus from Kunming East Station (昆明东站) to Tonghai County (通海县). After arriving, walk along Nanjie Street (南街) to reach Xiushan Scenic Area (秀山景区).

Local Cuisine

Tonghai County (通海县) offers many local delicacies, including:

• Tonghai Doumo Candy (通海豆末糖)
• Yuxi Winter Melon Preserves (玉溪冬瓜蜜饯)
• Pocket Tofu (口袋豆腐)
• Tonghai Brown Sugar (通海南糖)
• Stuffed Eel Balls (绣球鳝鱼)

Shopping

Popular local specialties to buy include:

• Tonghai Doumo Candy (通海豆末糖)
• Yuxi Winter Melon Preserves (玉溪冬瓜蜜饯)
• Pocket Tofu (口袋豆腐)

Accommodation

Hotels in the county: There are several moderately priced hotels in Tonghai County (通海县).
Guesthouses: Unique guesthouses are available near Xiushan Mountain (秀山), offering a chance to experience local life.

Visitor Tips

• Environmental Protection: Do not litter; help preserve the natural environment.
• Safety: Be cautious when exploring high areas; follow park regulations.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Morning: Arrive in Tonghai County (通海县) and explore Xiushan Park (秀山公园).
Afternoon: Visit Yongjin Temple (涌金寺) and admire ancient trees like Song cypress and Yuan fir.

Day 2:
Morning: Visit Qingliang Terrace (清凉台) and enjoy its tranquility.
Afternoon: Return to town and shop for local specialties.

Yongjin Temple (涌金寺), an essential part of Xiushan Mountain (秀山) in Tonghai County (通海县), is a destination steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are drawn by its spiritual heritage or its scenic surroundings, your journey to Yongjin Temple promises to be a memorable one.