How long does the tour take?

This is a one-day tour. Departure from Shanghai early in the morning, return in the evening. You will spend about 4 hours at the temple complex.

How to get to Xiyou Temple?

Train + taxi from Shanghai Hongqiao to Ningbo (about 1.5 hours), then by taxi to the temple (about 1 hour).

Is the climb to the waterfall difficult?

The trail to the waterfall has steps and takes about 30 minutes. The climb is not difficult, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Comfortable shoes, water, a light snack, camera, cash for entrance tickets and lunch.

Xiyou Temple in the Zhejiang Mountains

Xiyou Temple (西佑寺) – a little-known gem of Zhejiang Province, hidden in the mountain forests near Ningbo. This ancient Buddhist monastery, founded over a thousand years ago, attracts with its authentic atmosphere, stone Buddha statue, ancient pagoda, and picturesque waterfalls. Unlike crowded tourist centers, here you can truly feel the spirit of contemplation and unity with nature. The tour from Shanghai includes a visit to the main hall, the pagoda, a walk to the waterfall through bamboo groves, and a climb to the observation deck on Qingfeng Mountain.

🏯Ancient pagoda

🌿Bamboo groves

⏱️10-12 hours

⛰️Mountain scenery

Attractions

What to expect

Meeting at Xinzhuang metro station – convenient departure from the southern part of Shanghai, avoiding city center traffic. Early start (7:30–8:00).
Comfortable ride by car / minivan – distance ≈220 km to Ningbo, travel time including short stops – about 3–3.5 hours.
Arrival at Xiyou Temple complex – directly to the main entrance, no transfers.
Visit to the Main Hall (大雄宝殿) – stone Buddha statue, ancient frescoes.
Visit the seven-tier pagoda – one of the oldest pagodas in the region (7th century, Tang Dynasty).
Walk to the waterfall through the bamboo grove – scenic trail, sounds of nature.
Climb to Qingfeng Mountain – about 30–40 minutes, observation deck with panoramic views.
Lunch at a local eatery at the foot – dishes made from fresh ingredients, vegetarian options.
Return to Shanghai – departure after lunch, arrival at Xinzhuang metro in the evening (≈19:00–20:00).

Sample itinerary

*Times and order may be adjusted depending on traffic and the group's pace.

Time	Program stage	Details and transport
06:30	Meeting at Xinzhuang metro station (莘庄)	Meet the guide at the exit of Xinzhuang metro station, board the sedan. Departure.
06:45	Departure from Shanghai	Driving along expressway G92 (Ningbo-Hangzhou), then onto G15. Estimated travel time — 2.5–3 hours.
09:30–09:45	Arrival at Xiyou Temple	Approach the parking lot at the foot. Purchase entrance tickets (60¥). Start of the tour.
09:45–10:45	Main Hall and pagoda	Visit the stone Buddha statue, ancient pagoda, learn about the temple's history.
10:45–12:00	Walk to the waterfall	Trail through the bamboo grove, sounds of nature, meditative atmosphere.
12:00–13:00	Lunch at the on-site cafe	Traditional dishes of Zhejiang Province (cost about 50–80¥).
13:00–14:00	Climb to Qingfeng Mountain	Climb along the steps, panoramic view of the valley and temple.
14:00–14:30	Free time, souvenirs	Walk around the grounds, buy souvenirs.
14:30	Departure back to Shanghai	Gather at the entrance, board the car. Departure.
17:30–18:30	Arrival at Xinzhuang metro station	Estimated arrival time. End of the tour.

💡 Important notes:

Departure should ideally be before 7:00 to avoid morning traffic.
Wear comfortable shoes – you'll be climbing the mountain and walking through the forest.
Bring water and a light snack.
Modest clothing is encouraged in the temple halls.
Gas and toll road expenses are paid separately (approximately: gas ~300–400¥, tolls ~180–250¥ one way).

Price & conditions

Tour price

Metro + taxi

Economy

Train + taxi, immersing in the local atmosphere (meeting in Shanghai). Fare paid separately.

$330per group 1–3 pax

Groups > 3 pax – individual quote

By car

Comfort

Sedan (1–3 pax) from Xinzhuang metro. Gas and tolls are already included in the price.

$370per group 1–3 pax

Groups > 3 pax – individual quote.

Additional expenses (paid on site)

Temple entrance ticket (adult)60¥ (~$8)
Entrance ticket (discounted)30¥ (~$4)
Lunch50–80¥ (~$7–11)
Personal expenses, souvenirsoptional

*Prices are approximate. Exchange rates may vary.

Duration

10–12 hours

from departure from Shanghai to return

Extra services

🚗

Hotel transfer

+$50

✈️

Airport transfer

+$100

Minivan rental

+$80

What else to see nearby

🏯 Ningbo Ancient City (宁波老城)Historical center, Tianyi Temple, museum (30 km).

🌊 Dongqian Lake (东钱湖)The largest freshwater lake in the province, water activities (40 km).

⛰️ Xuedou Mountain (雪窦山)Buddhist complex, waterfalls, cable car (50 km).

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Xiyou Temple unique?

It is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Zhejiang Province, founded in the Tang Dynasty (7th century). It has preserved authentic architecture and an atmosphere of seclusion, not overcrowded with tourists. Around the temple are picturesque bamboo groves and waterfalls, creating ideal conditions for meditation and a break from city noise.

Is the climb to Qingfeng Mountain difficult? What to wear?

The climb takes about 30–40 minutes along a well-maintained stone path with railings. Requires comfortable sports shoes and basic physical fitness. It is recommended to bring water and a light jacket, as it can be windy at the top. In the temple halls, visitors are asked to cover shoulders and knees.

Can I take photos inside the temple?

Yes, photography is allowed on the temple grounds, but without flash in the main halls. Please maintain silence and respect the religious feelings of visitors.

Is vegetarian food available?

Local cafes offer vegetarian dishes, including tofu, vegetable soups and mushrooms. We recommend informing the guide in advance about dietary preferences.

What is included in the tour price?

The base price includes round-trip transfer from Shanghai in a comfortable vehicle, services of a Russian-speaking guide. Entrance tickets (60¥), meals and personal expenses are paid separately. Details should be clarified when booking.

⚠️

Important information

The stated prices are valid at the time of the offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of tickets and guide services may change.

Booking is made exclusively after receiving a prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current rate.

If a booking is cancelled less than 7 days before the start of the event, the payment is non-refundable.

In case of trip cancellation due to weather conditions, we will offer alternative dates or refund the prepayment for guide services (transport tickets are refunded according to the carrier's rules).

The basic cost of services does not include and is paid additionally: transport, meals, entrance tickets and personal expenses.