Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple

普陀山风景名胜区-不肯去观音院

The "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple" is located in the Purple Bamboo Forest, where Guanyin practiced Taoism and where the earliest temple on the mountain is located. Next to the Chaoyin Cave, a low yellow wall surrounds three simple Buddhist halls, where incense is always lingering.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: "Putuo Mountain Scenic Area, Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, China (浙江省舟山市普陀山风景名胜区)"

  • History: Bukenqu Guanyin Temple is one of the notable temples in the Putuo Mountain Buddhist complex. Its name means “The Temple Where One Refuses to Leave Guanyin,” reflecting the legend of the devotees’ deep devotion to Avalokitesvara (Guanyin) Bodhisattva. The temple has a history of several hundred years, with roots in Ming and Qing dynasty temple building traditions. It has served as a place for Buddhist worship and pilgrimage.
  • Architecture: The temple features traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture, with red walls, green-tiled roofs, ornate eaves, and intricately carved wooden doors. Inside, there are statues of Guanyin in various poses, offering halls, and ceremonial incense areas. The temple is situated on a hillside, surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the sea.
  • Cultural Value: The temple is an important site for Buddhist pilgrims and embodies the spiritual culture of Putuo Mountain, one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains. It reflects Jiangnan coastal Buddhist architecture, religious rituals, and local devotion traditions.
  • Other Information: The temple is quieter than the main Guanyin temples, making it suitable for meditation, prayer, and photography of serene temple landscapes. The sea views and natural surroundings add to its tranquility.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: "6:00 AM – 6:00 PM"

  • Ticket Price:
    Putuo Mountain Scenic Area entrance: ¥80 (full ticket)
    Discounted: ¥40 (students, seniors)
    Temple visit: free after park entrance
  • Best Photo Spots: Temple main hall with Guanyin statues, hillside view overlooking the sea, incense hall, temple gates framed by forest and mountain paths.
  • Time Reference: 1–1.5 hours for temple exploration; 3–4 hours if including other nearby temples and scenic spots.
  • Other Information: Visit early morning to catch peaceful prayers and soft sunlight for photography. Respect local religious practices, avoid loud noises, and do not photograph monks without permission.

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury:
    Putuo Mountain International Hotel (普陀山国际大酒店)
    Sea View Hotel Putuo (普陀海景酒店)
  • Mid-range:
    Putuo Mountain Holiday Hotel (普陀山假日酒店)
    Xihai Hotel (西海宾馆)
  • Budget & Boutique:
    Pilgrim Guesthouse (朝圣者客栈)
    Putuo Island Hostel (普陀岛青年旅舍)

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes:
    Vegetarian Buddhist meals (素斋)
    Seafood specialties: steamed fish (清蒸鱼) and prawns (虾)
    Local rice cakes (普陀糕)
  • Famous Spots:
    Puji Temple Vegetarian Restaurant (普济寺素斋餐厅)
    Zhiyun Sea-view Restaurant (智云海景餐厅)
    Buddhist Dining Hall at Fayu Temple (法雨寺斋堂)

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • "Buddhist prayer beads, Guanyin statues, incense sticks, temple stamps, local sea salt, herbal teas, and small Buddhist charms."

Transportation

  • "From Zhoushan City: Take bus or taxi to Putuo Mountain ferry dock (~1 hour), then ferry to Putuo Island. From ferry dock, walk or take shuttle buses within the scenic area. Local shuttle buses and walking trails connect Bukenqu Guanyin Temple to other temples and scenic spots."

Nearby Attractions

  • "Within 2 km: Puji Temple (普济寺) ~1 km, Fayu Temple (法雨寺) ~1.5 km, Huiji Temple (慧济寺) ~1.8 km; accessible via walking paths or scenic shuttle buses."

Tips for Visitors

  • "Wear comfortable shoes for uphill walking. Arrive early to avoid crowds. Bring water, sunscreen, and light rain protection. Observe quiet and respectful behavior within temples. Follow local guidance when taking photographs. Vegetarian meals available at temple canteens."

Recommended itineraries

  • Half-Day Temple Walk:
    D1: Bukenqu Guanyin Temple (不肯去观音院) → Puji Temple (普济寺) → Fayu Temple (法雨寺)
    Transportation: Walking or scenic shuttle bus
  • Full-Day Putuo Mountain Cultural Tour:
    D1: Bukenqu Guanyin Temple → Puji Temple → Fayu Temple → Huiji Temple (慧济寺) → Sea-view Pavilion Walk
    Transportation: Walking and shuttle buses
  • 2-Day Spiritual & Scenic Route:
    D1: Bukenqu Guanyin Temple → Puji Temple → Fayu Temple → Sunset at Purple Bamboo Pavilion (紫竹亭)
    D2: Huiji Temple → Putuo Mountain Coastal Trail → Local Markets → Evening Temple Visit
    Transportation: Walking, shuttle bus

User Reviews

By pufferfish |

This thousand-year-old temple, nestled beside Chaoyin Cave on Putuo Mountain, is renowned for the legend that Guanyin refused to leave for Japan. Its Tang-style architecture stands by the sea, its yellow walls and green tiles creating a striking contrast against the azure waters. Within the temple grounds, a legendary red sandalwood statue of Guanyin is enshrined. Amidst the lingering fragrance of incense, the sound of the tide and Buddhist chants intertwine, imbuing every rock with a sense of Zen. Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and quietly listen to the ethereal echo of waves crashing against the mountain gate beneath the ancient camphor trees. Please note that entrance to the Putuo Mountain scenic area requires a ticket, but the temple itself is free to visit, and shuttle buses are available for short distances.

By hyacinth! |

This is where Master Hui'e once worshipped the incorruptible Guanyin, and is the birthplace of the Guanyin Daoist temple in the Putuoshan Scenic Area. The hall currently houses a Tang-style replica of the eleven-faced Guanyin. To the west of the temple, a corridor called "Thirty-three Guanyin Sacred Sites" houses sculptures of the principal Guanyin statues from 33 Japanese temples.

By Jam Master |

I came specifically to see the "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple," not only for its unique name, but also for its reputation as the oldest temple on Putuo Mountain. It's located in Zizhulin, the place where Guanyin practiced Taoism, near Chaoyin Cave on the seashore. According to historical records of the mountain, in the 13th year of the Dazhong era, the Japanese monk Hui'e, returning from Mount Wutai with a statue of Guanyin, encountered obstacles off Putuo Mountain. Believing the Bodhisattva was unwilling to travel east, he left the statue ashore. A resident surnamed Zhang, who worshipped it, named it "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple," marking the beginning of Buddhist worship in Putuo.

By Sea breeze boat |

The Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple is the earliest temple built on Putuo Mountain. During the Tang Dynasty, the Japanese monk Hui'e, returning home from Mount Wutai with a statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva, was blocked by wind and waves for three days while passing through Lianhuayang, Zhoushan. Believing that the Bodhisattva refused to leave for Japan, he left the statue on the island and asked a resident surnamed Zhang to enshrine it in his house, calling it "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin." Later, the "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple" was built on the site of Zhang's house. The current building, rebuilt in 1980, imitates the Tang Dynasty style. The main hall houses a Tang-style eleven-faced Guanyin statue. To the west, the "Thirty-three Guanyin Sacred Fields" corridor houses 33 Guanyin statues.

By Teacher Yang Gongzi |

It's just a temple on Mount Putuo...it's very good

By l Kezi |

2010.10.5 Only those who understand history will know the special reason for this name; it is worth reading

By Shandris, Feather Moon |

The courtyard by the sea is particularly beautiful...

By fincen |

The Zen temple located in the Purple Bamboo Forest has a very distinctive name and is full of stories.

By He Anfei |

From the beginning, I was curious about the name of this temple. It must contain an interesting story.

According to legend, in 916 AD, a Japanese monk named Hui'e brought a statue of Guanyin from Mount Wutai back to Japan. While passing through the Lotus Sea in Putuo, he suddenly discovered that it was covered in iron lotus flowers, making it impossible for his boat to pass. Hui'e, believing that Guanyin refused to cross to Japan, enshrined the statue in the home of a local named Zhang. From then on, Putuo Mountain gradually developed into a monastery dedicated to the worship of Guanyin, and Hui'e became known as its founding master.

It is very close to the Purple Bamboo Forest and Nanhai Guanyin.

By Little Pig Man |

This is a must-visit place in the temple of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.

By Xia Xia Yang Yang |

The name of the Guanyin Temple is really interesting. When I first heard it, my first reaction was "There must be a story behind it!"

The following introduction comes from Baidu Encyclopedia:

According to legend, in 916 AD, a Japanese monk named Hui'e brought a statue of Guanyin from Mount Wutai back to Japan. While passing through the Lotus Sea in Putuo, he suddenly discovered that it was covered in iron lotus flowers, making it impossible for his boat to pass. Hui'e, believing that Guanyin refused to cross to Japan, enshrined the statue in the home of a local named Zhang. From then on, Putuo Mountain gradually developed into a monastery dedicated to the worship of Guanyin, and Hui'e became known as its founding master.



If you don't want to go to Guanyin Temple, Zizhulin and Nanhai Guanyin are very close to each other and can be reached on foot.

By Cherry |

There is also a stone statue of Guanyin sent from many Japanese temples next to Guanyin Temple.

By Sagazu |

This is a lively place in Putuo Mountain. There are many people.

By mewkuma |

It is said to be the earliest temple built on Putuo Mountain. You can also take a bird's-eye view from the land leading to the Nanhai Guanyin statue. The scenery itself is nice.

By abelabel |

Compared with the scenery, the ancient legends are the classics. The Guanyin statue is unwilling to go to Japan:)

By Help me step on the space |

If you have heard the story of the people who refused to go to Guanyin, you will be even more impressed by this place.

By Big Hae Walking |

The Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple is located in Zizhulin, the earliest temple built on Putuo Mountain. Next to Chaoyin Cave, a low yellow wall surrounds three simple Buddhist halls, where incense curls year-round. This is the Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple. You can take Line 1 and get off at Zizhulin.

By Heart is far away |

Ciyun Temple is not far from the Duangu Holy Site, so you can visit both attractions together.

By hwltksss |

This is a legendary memorial site. It is said that in ancient times, a Japanese monk wanted to bring a statue of Guanyin to Japan, but the ship could not leave here, so he had to place the statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva here.

By There are good trees in the south |

Together with Chaoyin Cave, it has its own story and is one of the scenic spots in Putuo Mountain, which is worth visiting.

By WY |

It is in the Zizhulin Scenic Area. There seems to be no incense oil lamps. If you want to burn incense, you need to bring your own light.

By Greater Freedom |

On October 16, 2016, I bought a ticket to enter the Purple Bamboo Forest Area in Putuo Mountain Scenic Area, bid farewell to the Nanhai Guanyin statue, and walked down the stone steps. There was a small temple on the seashore. When I looked up, I saw that it was called "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Yuan", a long and strange name.

After entering the hall and worshipping, you'll find a stone stele describing the temple's origins and the origin of its name. It turns out that in the first year of the Tang Dynasty's Dazhong reign (847 AD), a Buddhist monk visited Chaoyin Cave and was inspired by the incarnation of Guanyin, who preached the Dharma, leading to the beginning of miraculous phenomena. In the fourth year of the Tang Dynasty's Xiantong reign (863 AD), the Japanese monk Hui'e brought a Guanyin statue from Mount Wutai back to Japan by boat. Upon reaching the Lotus Ocean, the boat encountered stormy weather, and after several attempts to reach its destination, the monk, convinced that Guanyin refused to cross east, left the statue for worship beside Chaoyin Cave. Hence, it became known as the "Reluctant Guanyin."

Guanyin's stay here led to the establishment of Putuo Mountain as the Buddhist temple of Guanyin, which began in the Tang Dynasty. Or maybe it's not just a story, but real history!

By Mr. Nohara Australian Pig |

The Unwilling to Go Guanyin Temple is located in Zizhulin, which is where Guanyin practiced Taoism. It has the earliest temple built on the mountain. The Unwilling to Go Guanyin Temple has a story here, so it is recommended to go there. It is in the same area as the Boy Guanyin.

By July |

I refused to visit Guanyin Temple, nestled against a mountainside, with the turbulent ocean behind it. Legend has it that a Japanese monk, seeking to teach and resolve doubts, built a temple there, unable to reach the main hall. The courtyard is not very large, but the surroundings are beautiful.

By A person as quiet as a chrysanthemum |

The Unwilling Guanyin is a very famous scenic spot in Putuo. People who come to Putuo must be pious in their hearts. There are many stories about the Unwilling Guanyin.

By CANON |

If you have heard the story of the people who refused to go to Guanyin, you will be even more impressed by this place.

By Augustus |

The founding temple of Putuo Mountain. Legend has it that Guanyin Bodhisattva did not want to travel east to Japan, hence the name "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Yuan".

By pale |

It should be the earliest Guanyin temple in Putuo Mountain, and there is a very interesting story behind it.

A Japanese monk brought a statue of Guanyin from Mount Wutai to Japan, but it ran into a storm in Zhoushan. The monk then concluded that the Bodhisattva was unwilling to leave for Japan. The monk had an idea and enshrined the Bodhisattva there, naming it "Reluctant to Leave."

By Queen_Queen |

Although I went to Putuo Mountain two years ago, I still remember the slogan of Putuo Mountain: "It's getting better and better!"

By num3333 |

One of the scenic spots in Putuo Mountain, not very impressive

By Orangeらmm |

Tickets are required, I didn't go in, but the scenery at the door is still good

By HkDJ |

A scenic spot in Putuo Mountain, it also has its own story. It is right next to the sea and you can still go and see it.

By 💯Andrew |

There is a famous legend. The Guanyin Temple is located in Zizhulin.

By Aliekana |

The temple is close to the sea, very clean and comfortable, with many Guanyin statues inside, it is worth a visit.

By Old Cow |

The Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple is located in the Purple Bamboo Forest, where Guanyin practiced Taoism. It also houses the oldest temple on the mountain, the Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple. Next to the Chaoyin Cave, a low yellow wall surrounds three simple Buddhist halls, where incense curls year-round. This is the Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple.

Mount Putuo in Zhejiang Province is the world's most famous Guanyin temple. How did Putuo Mountain become a Guanyin temple? According to historical records of the mountain, in the 13th year of the Dazhong era, the Japanese monk Huie was returning to Japan from Mount Wutai with a statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva. His ship was blocked by Putuo Mountain. Believing the Bodhisattva was unwilling to leave east, he left the statue ashore. A resident surnamed Zhang offered it as a devout offering, and the statue became known as "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Yuan." This marked the beginning of Buddhist worship at Putuo Mountain.

By Zheng Jijiao |

Bukenqu Guanyin Temple is a small Guanyin Temple. It got its name from the story that a Japanese monk was blocked from going to sea when he wanted to invite Guanyin statue to Japan. It is a Guanyin Temple with a lot of stories. It is recommended for tourists to visit.

By Ang Ang Ge |

The scenery here is what I hope to see, island scenery, humanities and ancient buildings.

By Han Fei Home |

The Zen temple before us is the site of the earliest temple built on Putuo Mountain. Reluctant to leave? Reluctant to stay? Manjusri on Mount Wutai, Samantabhadra on Mount Emei, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva on Mount Jiuhua, Avalokitesvara on Mount Putuo. Thinking back to that year in Lumbini, Nepal... After walking so many paths, paying homage to so many Buddhas, have you found spiritual sustenance? Have you found the home of your dreams?

By Zhang Feiteng |

This Guanyin Temple is on the seaside and is very beautiful. Where else would you go if not to Guanyin Stone? Let’s go and take a look with this question in mind.

By Six Dynasties Tower Master |

Update: Tickets are no longer required.

By Zhao Huoding |

I don't want to go to Guanyin Temple, which is located in Zizhulin. Zizhulin is where Guanyin practiced Taoism and is the earliest place where temples were built on the mountain.

By Nebula Inn |

The Guanyin Temple is close to the seaside. You can reach the beach by walking along the path. There is a pavilion on the beach. You can sit in it for a while, blow the sea breeze, and watch the waves. It is really a place where Guanyin is unwilling to leave.

By Red Tin Man |

The "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple" is located in Zizhulin, the place where Guanyin practiced Taoism. It also houses the oldest temple on the mountain, the "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple." Next to Chaoyin Cave, a low yellow wall surrounds three simple Buddhist halls, where incense curls year-round. The "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple" was rebuilt in 1980.

By gcmwanshui |

The Nanhai Guanyin statue is very magnificent, with the spirit of saving all living beings. When we arrived at the Purple Bamboo Forest, we felt like we had arrived at Guanyin's home.

By Flying water droplets |

What impressed me most were the many stone sculptures of Bodhisattvas sent from Southeast Asian countries.

By An Xin |

Mount Putuo in Zhejiang Province is the world's most famous Guanyin temple. How did Putuo Mountain become a Guanyin temple? According to historical records of the mountain, in the 13th year of the Dazhong era, the Japanese monk Huie was returning to Japan from Mount Wutai with a statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva. When his ship passed Putuo Mountain, it was blocked in the ocean. Believing that the Bodhisattva was unwilling to leave east, he left the statue ashore. A resident surnamed Zhang worshipped it, and it became known as the "Unwilling to Go Guanyin Temple." This marked the beginning of Buddhist worship at Putuo Mountain.

By Qingyang LU |

Hui'e was a prominent monk of the Rinzai school of Buddhism in Japan. After Buddhism was introduced to Japan from China, Japanese monks often came to China to study the Dharma. They had long heard of Guanyin and deeply revered her. Hui'e came to China to study Buddhism and to pay homage to Guanyin. He arrived at Mount Wutai, a renowned Buddhist site at the time. Mount Wutai was the sanctuary of Manjushri, known as the supremely wise. He and Guanyin were both disciples of the Buddha, and the two enjoyed a close relationship. At the time, Mount Wutai was a central center of Buddhist worship for northern China, with numerous Buddhist temples dominating the mountain. Its reputation as a cool and refreshing world spread far and wide, attracting a constant stream of pilgrims.

By Donut |

The scenery is really beautiful. There are not many people when I arrive at 6 o'clock in the morning, and I can clearly see the Sakya Mountain.

By Who are you playing with? |

The most impressive thing is a monument that says "Prohibition of Sacrificing One's Life and Burning Fingers". The architectural style inside is very different. Outside the courtyard is the sea, where you can enjoy different beautiful views.

By Doudou |

Although the Guanyin Temple is not big, it makes people feel very comfortable! It’s nice to see the sea!

By Bear meow |

At Guanyin Temple, nestled by the sea, you can hear the sound of the tide and the lingering scent of incense. You'll feel a sense of inner joy and a sense of ease. It's like a paradise.

By candy |

Very good! Walking distance! Check out every place

By Anemarrhena aspergillus |

There are many Guanyin statues, each with an introduction below, you can recommend them to go and see

By 3 km east of Makalu |

New building, just take a look. The location is very good.

By Idle Clouds and Wild Cranes 2010 |

Next up is the Bu Ken Qu Guan Yin Temple. Since the boat we took to get here was named after it, I was eager to visit. It's said that a Japanese monk, returning from Sichuan with a Buddhist statue, encountered a storm and was forced to stop here. Unexpectedly, the storms continued to break up three times, prompting the monk to believe that Guan Yin was refusing to leave, and so he built the Bu Ken Qu Guan Yin Temple. The temple is situated close to the sea, offering stunning scenery. A low yellow wall surrounds three simple Buddhist halls, where incense curls and visitors come year-round.

By Rose |

The Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple is located in Zizhulin, which is the place where Guanyin practiced Taoism. It also houses the Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple, the earliest temple built on the mountain.

By Only you can live up to expectations |

For Buddhists, Putuo Mountain is truly a sacred place, with every temple and every Buddha worth worshipping. Non-Buddhists, on the other hand, probably focus on places like the story of those who refuse to visit Guanyin Temple.

By Osmanthus Cake |

There is a story that Guanyin missed the place and refused to leave.

By のCherish' |

Very beautiful Guanyin Temple, very interesting name

By |

Interesting name, and the scenery is pretty good.

By smiled |

It is relatively close to the Purple Bamboo Forest and the Nanhai Guanyin Statue, and the nearby sea view is very magnificent! The downside is that there are too many people, and this is not the peak season.

By A Journey of the Soul |

There is a story that Guanyin missed the place and refused to leave.

By Alvin Jianjian |

Like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like, like

By john_cho |

For those who have faith, you must go and see it, and go quietly!

By Peter Pan |

The Bu Ken Qu Guanyin is right next to the Chaoyin Cave. What makes me most curious is that there are many stone Guanyin statues next to the Bu Ken Qu Guanyin, each with a different shape, but the name of the Japanese abbot is written on the base under each Guanyin statue. Why is that?

By |

What an interesting name, I want to go and check it out.

By Ga Li Luo Oh |

Actually, I want to say that it’s rare to see such a fun and special name😊

By OscAr |

aaabbbcccdddeeefffggg

By Queen Bee |

If you are here and have a tight schedule, I suggest you avoid this place because it is very small compared to other temples and there is nothing special to see.

By monster |

The earliest temple in Putuo Mountain, coupled with its legendary story, is well worth a careful visit and careful appreciation.

By dew |

On the beach, the scenery is nice and worth seeing~~~~

By Yen |

It is a pity that the oldest temple has been destroyed. Now when I go to see the brand new temple, I feel like "a clay Buddha cannot save himself when crossing the river".

By wanwan23 |

One of the must-see attractions in Putuo Mountain. It would be a pity if you don't go.

By Moonlight |

Leaving Zizhulin Zen Temple, we continued onward until we reached the "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple." Initially, I was drawn to the "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple" by its "reluctant to go" motif. Later, I learned that this tale recounts a story about a Japanese monk who, while attempting to bring back Buddha from Sichuan, encountered strong winds and waves, forcing him to tarry. The winds and waves subsided, only to rise again three times. This recurred three times, leading the monk to believe that Guanyin was refusing to leave, and so the "Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple" was built here. The temple, nestled close to the sea, offers stunning scenery. A low yellow wall encloses three unadorned Buddhist halls, perpetually filled with incense and bustling with visitors.

By Jessica Ho |

The Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple is located in Zizhulin, the place where Guanyin practiced Taoism. It also houses the oldest temple on the mountain, Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple. From Putuoshan Island, you can take tourist buses 1, 2, or 3 to Zizhulin (Nanhai Guanyin) and walk to the temple. Fares range from 5 to 10 yuan depending on the distance traveled.


The attractions mentioned in the left itinerary


More attractions in Zhoushan


Popular attractions in Zhejiang

Top attractions in Hangzhou

Top attractions in Jinhua

Top attractions in Lin'an

Top attractions in Lishui

Top attractions in Nanxun

Top attractions in Ningbo

Top attractions in Quzhou

Top attractions in Shaoxing

Top attractions in Shengsi

Top attractions in Taizhou

Top attractions in Wenzhou

Top attractions in WuZhen

Top attractions in XiTang

Top attractions in Zhoushan