I arrived around 4:30 p.m when the sun was slowly setting. Going very early in the morning or in the afternoon before they close is best because there is almost no one there. There was only one monk who looked at me with surprise.
Wenchang Palace is at the base of the Qingcheng mountain (青城山), next to the road and surrounded by deep forest. This mountain is very famous for its natural beauty and the multitude of temples scattered across various points (some of which are difficult to access).
For a Taoist temple, this has an especially majestic and ostentatious entrance in a pale red color.
When I entered, it was completely deserted. Before setting up the cameras and audio gear to record, I asked the monk who was still watching me if he was okay with it (This should always be done, not only out of politeness and respect but because the recording results are always much better).
I spent more than 2 hours meditating alone at the altar by the smoldering incense. Pure magic.
Eventually, a few pilgrims trickled in.
I headed out when a monk and a volunteer gave me the "we’re closing" shout. They also recommended me a local spot for a steaming bowl of noodles to beat the mountain chill.