Xiyun Taoist Temple

Xiyun Taoist Temple is the only Taoist architecture in Dunhuang. It was first built in 1730 during Qing Dynasty. It was said location of the temple was set in south suburb of the county before its construction. The columns lines were moved magically to the current site after they were drawn. People thought it is the will of the Gods and they are afraid of moving the site. During the construction, several floating clouds to shadow came from the west and shield the strong sunlight for workers, thus it was name after Xiyun Taoist Temple, i.e. the Western Clouds Taoist Temple.

There were only two hall after its completion. During early Republic of China, the temple underwent two renovations. And the numbers of halls were increased to 7.The splendid and imposing halls are arranged in picturesque order. Lush Trees and exquisite pavilions are scattered in from and the back of the halls. 

The most attractive elements in the temple are Lu Ban (famous carpenter in ancient China)Window, flower and birds folding screen and suspending sculpture featuring Journey to the West (one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature.).Most of buildings survived in Culture Revolution.

In 1981, the temples was listed as cultural relict under protection. Later on, it was approved as a legal venue for Taoist activity and service. In the 1990s, the temple was renovated with the public donations. Now, it becomes one of tourist attractions in Dunhuang.

Location: West Suburb, Dunhuang 
Entrance Fee: Free
Transportation: No direct bus , you can take taxi there.