Guanwang Temple scenic area in Yangquan city [Photo/shanxi.gov.cn]

First built in the Song Dynasty (960-1279), Guanwang Temple which covers 7,000 square meters on the side of Yuquan Mountain in Yangquan city in North China's Shanxi province is a typical wooden structure from the ancient period. 

The temple is used for the worship of Guan Yu, a famous general in the Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period (AD 220-280). Guan Yu is a symbol of loyalty, courage and righteousness in Chinese culture. 

Since 1986, the Shanxi provincial, Yangquan municipal and Jiaoqu district governments have invested more than 5 million yuan ($699,0000) to repair and protect Guanwang Temple, building support facilities for the scenic area and carrying out large-scale greening and beautification of the surrounding environment. 

As a result, the oldest existing temple in China to honor Guan Yu was officially opened to the public in June 1999.

Address: Linli village, Yinying town, Jiaoqu district, Yangquan city, Shanxi province

Opening hours: 8:30-17:30

Admission ticket price: 10 yuan ($1.39) per person