Qianwang Temple (Temple to King Qians)

Originally named Biaozhong (Showing Loyalty) Temple, Qianwang Temple in Hangzhou is a temple dedicated to the worship of the five kings of Wuyue Kingdom: Qian Liu, his son Qian Yuanguan, and his grandsons Qian Hongzuo, Qian Hongzong, and Qian Hongchu. It is now a cultural relic protection unit in Hangzhou.

Qianwang Temple was first built during the Northern Song Dynasty. The original temple was constructed by Zhao Bian, the magistrate of Hangzhou during the Northern Song Dynasty, who requested the imperial court to build it on the site of a Buddhist temple on Yuhuang (Jade Emperor) Mountain. Su Dongpo (Su Shi) specially wrote the famous "Biaozhong Temple Stele Inscription," vividly reflecting the achievements of Qian Liu.

Throughout its history, Qianwang Temple has experienced various changes: it originated in the Five Dynasties, and was established in the Northern Song Dynasty, relocated in the Ming Dynasty, expanded in the Qing Dynasty, rebuilt in the Republic of China era, and restored after being abandoned in modern times. It has experienced disasters and wars, and repeated destruction and reconstruction.

The reconstructed main structure of Qianwang Temple is magnificent, with tall and spacious buildings exuding an air of royalty. Facing West Lake, the mountain gate wall is tall and the courtyard is deep. A merit archway was built in front to commemorate the achievements of Qian Liu, the King of Wuyue. Two lotus ponds in front of the gate are elegant and beautiful, with eight archways on their sides arranged in an orderly manner, symbolizing the contributions of the three generations of King Qians to the Wuyue region. At the end of the corridor, there is a statue of Qian Liu, majestic and solemn. Walking among them, visitors seem to travel back to the Wuyue Kingdom over a thousand years ago.

Today's Qianwang Temple bears the heavy responsibility of spreading the historical heritage of Wuyue Kingdom and has become an excellent attraction integrating tourism, sightseeing, cultural exhibitions, and historical research.

Opening hours: 07:30-17:00

Address: No. 11 Nanshan Road, Shangcheng District

Telephone: +86 571 87068289