Gao Temple (Gaomiao)
中卫高庙
A Ming and Qing multi-storey pavilion-style temple complex in central Zhongwei that unites Confucianism, Buddhism and Daoism, with tiered halls rising like a pagoda and an underground display of the Eighteen Levels of Hell.
Gao Temple is located just north of the Drum Tower in central Zhongwei. It was first built during the Yongle reign of the Ming dynasty and rebuilt several times during the Qing. It is one of the best-preserved ancient architectural complexes in Ningxia and is a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit. Its most distinctive feature is the unity of the three teachings: Confucianism, Buddhism and Daoism. Along the central axis, you enter from Bao'an Temple, pass a brick-carved archway and the South Heaven Gate, then climb steep steps past the Five Sacred Mountains Hall, the Jade Emperor Pavilion, the Great Buddha Hall and the Hall of the Three Teachings. Statues of Confucius, Shakyamuni, Laozi and the Jade Emperor are enshrined inside. The halls sit on a platform about 30 metres high, with upturned eaves and layered brackets that narrow upward like a pagoda. From the top, you can look out over the old town of Zhongwei. Another highlight is the Hell Palace: an underground passage with statues of the Court of King Yama and scenes of the Eighteen Levels of Hell, enhanced with light and sound effects. It is a vivid display of folk belief, so timid visitors and children may want to skip it. Admission is about 30 yuan, and a visit takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. It is the only historic site in Zhongwei city worth making a special trip for. Getting there: it is within walking distance of the city centre, near the Drum Tower and the Zhongwei commercial street. Nearby are small shops serving Zhongwei specialities such as haozi noodles and mutton zhazi noodles. Notes: the steps are steep and narrow, so take care going up and down. Photography is not allowed inside the halls. It is very crowded on weekends in peak season. It can be visited on the afternoon of arrival in Zhongwei or before leaving.
Opening hours
08:30–18:00
Nearby sights
- Zhongwei Drum Tower
- Golden Sand Island (Tengger Desert Wetland)
- Yellow River Suji (Boutique Homestay Cluster)
- Tengger Jinshahai Desert Resort
- Shapotou
- Tengger Desert & Desert Star Hotel
- Shikong Grand Buddha Temple
- Beichangtan Ancient Village