Discover the Hidden Gem of Dali: The Enchanting Jizhao Nunnery

Nestled deep in the lush forests of Cangshan Mountain in Dali, China, lies a hidden sanctuary unlike any other—Jizhao Nunnery (寂照庵). Far from the bustling tourist spots, this serene retreat is a paradise for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a touch of Buddhist spirituality. If you're a traveler who loves off-the-beaten-path destinations, Jizhao Nunnery should be at the top of your list.

A Temple Without Incense, but Filled with Flowers

Unlike traditional temples where incense smoke fills the air, Jizhao Nunnery is famous for something entirely different—flowers. The nunnery is adorned with hundreds of vibrant succulents, blooming plants, and meticulously arranged greenery, transforming it into a living garden. The resident nuns, led by the devoted Abbess Miaohui, believe that "Buddha does not lack incense, but cherishes a sincere heart." Instead of burning incense, visitors are encouraged to offer flowers, making this place a fragrant, peaceful haven.

A Masterpiece of Minimalist Design

The nunnery’s transformation is largely thanks to Gao Ludong, a former Olympic athlete turned designer. In 2012, after getting lost in the mountains, he stumbled upon the then-dilapidated temple and was moved by Abbess Miaohui’s vision. With just 5,000 RMB (yes, you read that right!) and a lot of creativity, he helped rebuild Jizhao Nunnery using reclaimed materials—old stones, repurposed wood, and even handmade furniture. The result? A stunning blend of rustic charm and modern simplicity.

Must-See Spots Inside the Nunnery:

The Meditation Courtyard– A peaceful space filled with flowers, where nuns chant scriptures in the morning sun.

The Tea Room – A cozy corner where visitors can enjoy free tea while soaking in the serene atmosphere.

The "Zen" Calligraphy Wall – A minimalist white wall with a giant handwritten "禅" (Zen) character, now an iconic photo spot.

The Glass-Walled Dining Hall – Unlike traditional dimly lit temple halls, this space is bright and airy, inviting guests to enjoy meals in natural light.

A Unique Vegetarian Dining Experience

One of the highlights of visiting Jizhao Nunnery is its vegetarian meals. Prepared with fresh ingredients bought daily from local markets, the food is simple yet delicious. The nuns follow a strict rule: "Take only what you can eat—if you waste food, you must kneel before Buddha as penance." The meals are 20 RMB per person, but on the 1st and 15th of the lunar month, they’re free—a gesture of kindness from the nunnery.

How to Get There

Jizhao Nunnery is not easy to find, which adds to its charm. Located on Cangshan Mountain’s Shengying Peak, the entrance is hidden among dense foliage. Most visitors hike up from Dali Ancient Town, a moderately challenging trek that takes about 1-1.5 hours. The journey itself is part of the experience—winding paths, fresh mountain air, and occasional glimpses of the valley below.

Tips for Visiting:

Best Time to Go: Early morning (before 11 AM) to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a camera (you’ll want to capture every corner!).

Etiquette: Dress modestly, speak softly, and respect the nuns’ way of life.

Why Jizhao Nunnery is Perfect for Travelers

For those tired of commercialized temples and crowded tourist spots, Jizhao Nunnery offers an authentic, meditative escape. It’s a place where you can:

Sip tea in silence, surrounded by nature.

Enjoy slow travel, away from the usual hustle.

Experience Buddhist culture in a unique, non-traditional setting.

If you're visiting Dali, don’t miss this hidden gem. Jizhao Nunnery isn’t just a temple—it’s a living work of art, a sanctuary of peace, and a testament to the beauty of simplicity.

Have you been to Jizhao Nunnery? Share your thoughts in the comments!