Fuxi Temple in Tianshui

Fuxi Temple (伏羲庙), also known locally as Ren’zu Temple (人宗庙), is located at No. 110 Fuxi Road, Qinzhou District, Tianshui City, Gansu Province. It is a national 4A-level scenic area and a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit. Originally built during the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty, it is the largest and best-preserved ancient architectural complex in China dedicated to worshipping Fuxi (伏羲), the legendary ancestor of Chinese civilization. It is widely known as the “First Temple of China” (华夏第一庙).

Facing south with a traditional north-south axis layout, the temple features four courtyards and six sections of Ming-style palace architecture. As Fuxi is believed to have created the Eight Trigrams (八卦), the entire temple incorporates elements of I Ching (易学) culture throughout its design. Today, Fuxi Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Chinese people around the world seeking cultural roots and ancestral connections.

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal Recommendations

April to May and September to October: These months offer comfortable weather, with lush ancient cypress trees creating a beautiful atmosphere inside the temple. It is an ideal period for cultural sightseeing, photography, and exploring traditional architecture. The Grand Ceremony of Worshiping Fuxi (公祭伏羲大典) is usually held in late June, attracting large numbers of visitors with its grand cultural activities.

November to March of the following year: Visitor numbers are much lower, and the vegetation becomes quiet and sparse. This period is suitable for travelers who prefer a peaceful visit and a slower exploration experience.

Daily Visiting Hours

Peak season (April to October): 08:00–18:00, with admission ending at 17:30.

Low season (November to March): 09:00–17:00.

Morning visits are recommended as the crowds are smaller and the lighting is better for photography. During the traditional lunar calendar date of the 16th day of the first month, which celebrates Fuxi’s birthday, the temple extends its opening hours due to the annual temple fair.

Transportation Guide

By Car

Navigate to “Tianshui Fuxi Temple” (天水伏羲庙). Parking areas are available around the scenic area.

Public Transportation

Visitors can take city buses No. 5, No. 7, No. 24, or No. 26 and get off at Fuxi Temple Station (伏羲庙站), which is within walking distance of the entrance. A taxi ride from Tianshui South Railway Station (天水南站) takes approximately 30 minutes.

Fuxi Temple can also be combined with a walking tour of Tianshui Ancient City (天水古城) and Tianshui Museum (天水市博物馆), allowing visitors to explore the city’s historical and cultural highlights in one route.

Core Attractions

🏯 Kai Tian Ming Dao Archway (开天明道牌坊)

The stone archway in front of the temple is the iconic entrance landmark. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, it features powerful calligraphy inscriptions and serves as the starting point for visitors entering the temple complex.

🐉 Xiantian Hall (先天殿, Main Hall)

As the central building of Fuxi Temple, Xiantian Hall is a magnificent double-eaved hall with a hipped-gable roof structure. Inside the hall stands a large Ming Dynasty clay statue of Fuxi holding the Eight Trigrams. The ceiling features colorful paintings and a caisson decorated with the sixty-four hexagrams, representing extremely high historical and cultural value.

🏛 Taiji Hall (太极殿)

Originally used as the sleeping palace of Fuxi, Taiji Hall features exquisite wooden doors and windows decorated with dragon and phoenix carvings. The precious plaques inside the hall and the quiet, simple courtyard create an elegant atmosphere reflecting traditional Chinese architectural aesthetics.

🌲 Ancient Cypress Group (古柏群)

More than thirty ancient cypress trees from the Ming Dynasty remain in the temple. They were originally planted according to the arrangement of the sixty-four hexagrams. With several centuries of history, these vigorous trees are one of the most remarkable sights in Fuxi Temple. The famous Longma Cypress (龙马柏) is also located here.

🪨 Stele Gallery (碑廊)

The Stele Gallery displays stone inscriptions recording different periods of renovation and restoration of Fuxi Temple. It provides valuable historical information about worship ceremonies and temple development, making it especially interesting for visitors interested in Chinese history and culture.

🏮 Jianyi Pavilion and Bell & Drum Towers (见易亭、钟鼓楼)

The traditional pavilions and towers offer excellent viewpoints of the overall layout of the temple. Standing above these structures, visitors can appreciate the symmetrical design, architectural balance, and beauty of traditional Chinese temple planning.

Recommended visiting duration: approximately 2–2.5 hours.

Accommodation and Local Food

Accommodation

Most accommodation options are concentrated in Qinzhou District of Tianshui City, and many hotels are located close to Fuxi Temple, making it convenient for sightseeing.

Local Cuisine

Nearby restaurants and food streets offer famous Tianshui local specialties such as Tianshui Guagua (天水呱呱), Jiangshui Noodles (浆水面), and Pork Oil Pastry Boxes (猪油盒). There are no dining facilities inside the temple itself.

Travel Tips and Notes

1. The adult ticket price is around 30 RMB, and full-time students can enjoy half-price tickets. Visitors over 70 years old, military personnel, and visitors with disabilities can enter free of charge with valid certificates. Seniors aged 60–69 receive half-price tickets. Ticket policies are subject to the latest regulations at the scenic area.
2. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main halls, especially for statues and painted decorations. Flash photography is not allowed, and visitors should avoid touching cultural relics and stone inscriptions.
3. Do not climb, carve, or damage the ancient cypress trees. Please protect these valuable historical trees.
4. Free audio guides are available to help visitors better understand Fuxi culture, the temple’s history, and the background of its ancient architecture.
5. During the Grand Ceremony of Worshiping Fuxi (公祭伏羲大典) and the temple fair on the 16th day of the first lunar month, visitor numbers can become extremely high. Check official announcements and plan your visit in advance.
6. There are many steps inside the temple complex. Wear comfortable shoes and prepare sun protection during summer visits.