Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom

海天佛国

At the bend in the middle of Xiangyun Road, a massive square rock stands beside the road. The four characters "Hai Tian Fo Guo" (Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom) were inscribed on the rock face by Qi Jiguang, a renowned Ming Dynasty general who fought against Japanese invaders. This became a synonym for Mount Putuo. Each character is one meter square, and the inscription was written in the 16th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1588). The rock got its name from the inscription.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: Putuo District, Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province, China (浙江省舟山市普陀区)

  • History: Haitian Foguo is a famous Buddhist cultural park built to showcase the spiritual and architectural heritage of Buddhism in China. It developed alongside Puji Temple and the larger Putuo Mountain Buddhist complex.

  • Architecture: Features grand Buddhist temples, large Buddha statues, pagodas, prayer halls, and traditional Chinese gardens. The architecture integrates classical Buddhist style with intricate carvings and serene natural landscapes.

  • Cultural Value: The site is a major center for Buddhist worship and pilgrimage in eastern China. It preserves traditional Buddhist culture, rituals, and artistry, offering visitors insight into religious practices and Chinese spiritual life.

  • Other Information: Visitors can participate in guided temple tours, watch Buddhist ceremonies, and enjoy panoramic views of the sea and nearby islands. It is renowned for its tranquil environment and cultural depth.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Ticket Price: Adult: 160 CNY
    Student/Senior: 80 CNY

  • Best Photo Spots: Giant Buddha statues
    Temple courtyards and prayer halls
    Seaside views from temple terraces

  • Time Reference: 2–3 hours for a full visit

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury: Putuo Mountain Zhoushan Hotel (普陀山舟山酒店)
    Mid-range: Putuo Mountain Yuanjia Hotel (普陀山园家酒店)
    Budget & Boutique: Local guesthouses near Foguo Temple (普陀山附近民宿)

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes: Vegetarian Buddhist meals (素斋)
    Famous Spots: Foguo Temple Vegetarian Restaurant (佛国寺素食馆), local seafood restaurants near Putuo Mountain dock

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • Buddhist prayer beads and incense
    Temple-themed charms and statues
    Local teas and herbal products
    Calligraphy and Buddhist art prints

Transportation

  • By Ferry: From Zhoushan city to Putuo Mountain ferry terminal, then walk or take local shuttle buses to Haitian Foguo
    By Bus: Local buses connect Putuo Mountain ferry terminals with Haitian Foguo
    By Taxi: Short 10–15 minute ride from the ferry terminal or Putuo Mountain main entrance

Nearby Attractions

  • Puji Temple (普济寺) – ~1 km, reachable on foot
    Fayu Temple (法雨寺) – ~1.8 km, accessible via shuttle bus or walking
    South Sea Guanyin (南海观音) – ~2 km, reachable by shuttle bus or short taxi ride

Tips for Visitors

  • Dress modestly for temple visits
    Remove shoes when entering prayer halls
    Visit early morning to avoid crowds
    Respect quiet and spiritual atmosphere
    Carry water and light snacks as food options inside are limited
    Best time to visit: Spring or autumn for comfortable weather

Recommended itineraries

  • D1: Haitian Foguo → Puji Temple (普济寺) → Fayu Temple (法雨寺) → Evening walk along temple courtyards
    Transportation: Walk or use local shuttle buses between temples
  • D1–D2: Day 1: Haitian Foguo → Puji Temple → South Sea Guanyin (南海观音)
    Day 2: Fayu Temple → Zhoushan Seaside Scenic Spot → Local seafood lunch
    Transportation: Shuttle bus and taxi between locations
  • D1: Haitian Foguo → Photography of giant Buddha and courtyards → Tea tasting at temple tea house → Sunset at temple seaside terrace
    Transportation: Walk within temple area

User Reviews

By Phineas |

The inscription of "Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom" by Hou Jigao, a renowned Ming Dynasty general who fought against Japanese invaders, is located midway along the Xiangyun Road leading to Foding Mountain, offering a breathtaking view of Putuo Mountain. Panoramic views encompass the Qianbusha, Chaoyang Pavilion, Baibusha, the Purple Bamboo Forest, and the Nanhai Guanyin, among other scenic spots. These four characters have become synonymous with Putuo Mountain. It is also a must-see spot for photographs.

By pufferfish |

[A Zen Journey to the Buddhist Land of Sea and Sky] Putuo Mountain, known as the "Buddhist Land of Sea and Sky," is dotted with ancient temples and statues of the Guanyin of the South China Sea. Buddhist chants and the roar of the waves intertwine to create a unique Zen rhythm. We recommend climbing Foding Mountain in the early morning to overlook the sunrise over Lotus Ocean. The carved beams and painted buildings of Puji Temple and Fayu Temple embody the legacy of the Song and Yuan dynasties, and the 33-meter golden statue of the Guanyin of the South China Sea is breathtaking. Qianbusha's gentle waves are perfect for meditation, while the Chaoyin Cave in Zizhulin offers the spectacular spectacle of the "Preaching on the Shocking Waves." The island offers refreshing vegetarian meals and refreshing Buddhist tea. We recommend reserving 2-3 days for a more in-depth experience. Peak season sees a surge of pilgrims, so spring and autumn are ideal for a tranquil experience of this sacred landscape where sea and sky merge.

By Teacher Yang Gongzi |

It's just the stone carvings of Haitian Buddhist Kingdom...it's still very unique.

By Shanzhi'a |

These four words reflect the geographical and cultural positioning of Mount Putuo.

By Rain in the third year of the Republic of China |

There are still many Buddhist believers in Zhoushan Putuo, and the atmosphere is good.

By Yeni North City |

It's not bad. It's still a bit hot here in the summer.

By zhm_jinan |

I went there in 2006, but I can't remember it now. Fortunately, I can still recall it by looking at the photos.

By He Anfei |

This can be seen from the stairs from Huiji Temple to Fayu Temple. There is also magic water in the small cave next to it, which can be drunk directly.

By Little Pig Man |

Taking a photo here will make your trip to this beautiful island worthwhile.

By MLWG |

It's just a few words, you can read it or not, just take a look at it when you pass by.

By DrZou |

As you walk, you can see a lot of strange stone carvings. I heard that this is the work of Qi Jiguang. It is magnificent.

By Fox Sheng |

A place suitable for believers, don't go there if you don't have the need to worship

By mewkuma |

A stone on the mountain road from Foding Mountain to Fayu Temple, which is not very special.

By abelabel |

There are many landscapes dominated by inscriptions, such as Mount Tai.

By Jiangnan Quanzang |

It’s a famous tourist attraction, so you should go early if you want to take photos, otherwise there will be too many people.

By 🐳Old Fish |

Halfway up the mountain, you can see the calligraphy of Qi Jiguang, a famous general who fought against Japanese invaders.

By Mr. Nohara Australian Pig |

The cliffs of the Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom are located on the steps leading from Fayu Temple to Foding Mountain. I first visited Putuo Mountain in 2014 to pray, but I didn't take the stone steps. I saw them on the way down the mountain. I passed by them in 2016 when I climbed Foding Mountain. It's still worth recommending. After all, it's the Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom. Furthermore, we still need to have a pious heart. I suggest not taking the cable car every time, but to experience the summit. There are fresh fruits and vegetables along the way to quench your thirst, feel the power of nature, breathe in the fresh air, and hear the sound of Buddhist chants. I recommend it.

By Cheng Xiaohe |

The cliff carvings of Haitian Buddhist Kingdom are very representative.

By A person as quiet as a chrysanthemum |

Putuo is a Buddhist kingdom on the sea and sky, a holy place for Buddhism, and everyone comes to worship with a pious heart. The scenery is beautiful.

By Feng Shao |

Zhoushan Island, except for the poor food, everything else is really great. The scenery and culture are very unique, suitable for less crowded places

By Orangeらmm |

I passed by on Xiangyun Road, near Puji Temple, it was ok.

By Miss Mo 2011 |

Putuo Mountain has beautiful scenery and is well managed.

By @Oman |

It is indeed tiring to walk up Mount Putuo. Those who have faith will definitely go there. I was just passing by...

By 💯Andrew |

At the bend in the middle of Xiangyun Road, there is a huge square rock standing on the side of the road.

By Xiao Ke Maomao |

I went there very early, so my impression is a little blurry!!

By Isabel Xiaolei |

I hope the introduction can be revised. Qi Jiguang passed away in 1587, the 15th year of the famous Wanli reign. How could he have written the inscription in 1588?

By Lonely Wind |

Maybe I don't know how to appreciate it, I just feel tired and exhausted.

By Han Fei Home |

Hou Jigao's inscription, "Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom," is a nickname for Mount Putuo. The "Pantuo Stone" on the summit is also in his handwriting. He was not a scholar, but a military commander skilled in poetry and calligraphy, a renowned anti-Japanese general who lived in the same era as Qi Jiguang four hundred years ago.

By China-TravelNote users |

The Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky--well-deserved--a place that can cleanse one's soul

By Zhang Feiteng |

It is true that this is a Buddhist kingdom of sea and sky. There is a small scene every three steps and a big scene every five steps. :)

By Zhao Huoding |

Go to the halfway point of Huiyu Temple and see the words carved on a large stone, which is magnificent.

By Red Tin Man |

Qi Jiguang's notes near the trailhead of Foding Mountain

By Yang Dazhuang |

From Huiji Temple on Foding Mountain to Fayu Temple on the mountainside, there's a long, winding trail. The most important feature of the trail is the famous "Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom" stone. This stone was inscribed by Hou Jigao, a renowned general stationed in Zhoushan at the time. Atop the larger stone sits a precarious little rock, surprisingly balanced, with a note inscribed on it: "Cloud Supporting Stone."

On the mountain roads, you can often see wandering monks, dressed in monk's robes and shoes, carrying bags and moving as light as a swallow. Of course, there are also beggars, as is common in Buddhist scenic areas. There is also a bald monk with all his limbs who frankly and unceremoniously begs for alms on the spot. Everyone says he must not be a monk from Putuo Mountain.

By Flying water droplets |

One of the must-see attractions every time...

By Beautiful snow |

A must-visit place when visiting Putuo Mountain. It is always crowded.

By An Xin |

"The Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky" is a beautiful name for Mount Putuo, one of my country's four famous Buddhist mountains. A small island in the Zhoushan Archipelago, it covers an area of nearly 13 square kilometers. It is one of China's four famous Buddhist mountains, along with Mount Wutai in Shanxi, Mount Emei in Sichuan, and Mount Jiuhua in Anhui. It is the place where Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva teaches sentient beings, and is often called the Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky. It is renowned both domestically and internationally for its magical, sacred, and mysterious qualities. It is now a National Key Scenic Spot and a National 5A-level Tourist Scenic Area.

By Afterglow |

Walk all the way down from Huiji Temple towards Fayu Temple, passing the Haitian Buddhist Kingdom giant rock.

By iamdv |

On the way from Fayu Temple to Huiji Temple, I passed by the words "Sea and Sky Buddhist Kingdom". When I was about to faint from exhaustion, they suddenly appeared before my eyes, and I felt very happy.

By Rose |

It is a beautiful name for Mount Putuo, one of the four famous Buddhist mountains in my country.

By Osmanthus Cake |

The Sea Temple is the most distinctive of the four famous mountain temples.

By Xu Xiake's lackeys |

The Buddhist kingdom of sea and sky, the ancient Luojia Mountain, follow the footsteps of famous Buddhist mountains, and feel the compassion of Guanyin of the South China Sea. Putuo Mountain is worth a visit!

By coffee grounds |

Calm your mind, the world is complicated, there is no place without disputes, here is no

By A Journey of the Soul |

The sea temple is the most distinctive of the four famous mountain temples.

By Allen |

The scenery of the sea and sky Buddhist kingdom is very beautiful, and the temple of Guanyin Bodhisattva is indeed extraordinary

By hxm456 |

The island is truly renowned as the Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky. With towering ancient trees and lush greenery, the island is a vibrant blend of lake and mountain scenery. Being on the island naturally brings a sense of relaxation and tranquility.

By Little Happiness |

It's just a scenic spot on Mount Putuo, nothing special.

By ericazhu |

Although the terrain is relatively high, there are still many tourists and it has always been a popular photo spot.

By landminnie |

Take the parents-in-law for a walk and pray for blessings, that's great!

By The Monkey King's Red Cape |

It is a very worthwhile attraction to visit. Basically, there are views everywhere in Putuo Mountain, and it is very quiet.

By Happy Life |

The Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky is a beautiful name for Mount Putuo, one of the four famous Buddhist mountains in my country.

By Be considerate |

The sea and sky are one color. I have been exposed to the sun for a long time and my skin is a little peeling.

By Taomaomao |

No matter where you are in Putuo Mountain, you can feel the strong atmosphere of worshipping and respecting Buddha.

By Jessica Ho |

"The Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky" is a beautiful name for Mount Putuo, one of my country's four famous Buddhist mountains. A small island in the Zhoushan Archipelago, it covers an area of nearly 13 square kilometers. It is one of China's four famous Buddhist mountains, along with Mount Wutai in Shanxi, Mount Emei in Sichuan, and Mount Jiuhua in Anhui. It is the place where Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva teaches sentient beings and is known as the Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky. It is renowned both domestically and internationally for its magical, sacred, and mysterious qualities. It is now a National Key Scenic Spot and a National 5A-level Tourist Scenic Area.

By wanwan23 |

Very classic, one of the must-see attractions...

By Wrangler |

Not bad. I heard that Monk Jianzhen sailed to Japan from here.

By ghost |

"The Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky" is a beautiful name for Mount Putuo, one of my country's four famous Buddhist mountains. A small island in the Zhoushan Archipelago, it covers an area of nearly 13 square kilometers. It is one of China's four famous Buddhist mountains, along with Mount Wutai in Shanxi, Mount Emei in Sichuan, and Mount Jiuhua in Anhui. It is the place where Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva teaches sentient beings and is known as the Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky. It is renowned both domestically and internationally for its magical, sacred, and mysterious qualities. It is now a National Key Scenic Spot and a National 5A-level Tourist Scenic Area.

By Li Lianghu |

Putuoshan Scenic Area, the birthplace of Buddhism?

By Chirp, meet the angel |

The four characters "Haitian Foguo" on the rock face were written by Hou Jiguang, a famous general who fought against Japanese invaders in the Ming Dynasty. They became the nickname of Putuo Mountain. Each character is one meter square. The characters were written in the 16th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1588). The rock got its name from the characters.

By 7630920 |

One of the famous scenic spots in Putuo Mountain, generally speaking, you can go

By Recaumi |

Putuo Mountain is a very famous scenic spot. It can be said that it is a must-see attraction, just like the Heart Stone. It is also very similar. There are a few words engraved on the stone.

This scenic spot did not leave a deep impression on me.

By Sarah |

A must-see attraction when walking down the plank road from Foding Mountain. Many tourists take photos here.

By Heart is far away |

Beautiful, the environment is so beautiful. Beautiful, the environment is so beautiful.

By Fat Dinger |

One of the landmarks on Putuo Mountain, the name of Putuo Mountain also comes from this

By Wang Xiaona |

There is a stone like this near the top of Foding Mountain.

By Rachel |

The scenery is particularly good, the weather is not very good, otherwise you can see the sea.

By Calm Night |

This is a scenic spot we visited during our hike. Mount Putuo is known as the Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky. Let's erect a stone to show what it means.

2014.09

By Mimi |

On the way to Foding Mountain, you will definitely pass by a spot where there used to be spring water in the big rocks. It was very sweet, but now it is gone.

By 11 |

The Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky refers to the temple of Guanyin Bodhisattva on Mount Putuo. Legend has it that there are no thieves here, so those who worship Buddha must go there.

By MinH |

The Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky is well-deserved and worth a visit.

By chiling |

In the Buddhist kingdom of sea and sky, Buddhism is a belief, a freedom, and a culture.

By Barefoot fish |

Go to the halfway point of Huiyu Temple and see the words carved on a large stone, which is magnificent.

By ZHEN |

Zhoushan Buddhist holy place,,,,,,. . . ? ?

By KK |

Haha, the Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky is Putuo Mountain. Putuo Mountain is known as one of the four famous Buddhist mountains in China, along with Jiuhua Mountain, Wutai Mountain and Emei Mountain. It has beautiful scenery and is worth a visit.

By Safin Xiaofan |

The Haitian Foguo scenic spot is located on Xiangyun Road, the pedestrian path from Fayu Temple to Huiji Temple. There's a huge sign with this inscription on it, a little closer to Huiji Temple. On my way up, I encountered two devout worshippers at the Haitian Foguo scenic spot, prostrating themselves every three steps. They were truly admirable. Above the inscription is a cloud-supporting rock, known for its constant presence of mist and its unshaken presence. Beneath the rock, a woman was selling fairy water, which is actually mountain spring water. I think, if you have the stamina and time, this trail is worth the climb, and this spot is worth keeping as a mountain climbing memoir!

By sunny |

This stone is the only way to go down the mountain. Seeing it means you have arrived at Putuo Mountain. Remember to take a photo.


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