Zizhulin Zen Temple

紫竹林禅院

Zizhulin Zen Temple is located south of Baibusan and west of Chaoyin Cave, facing the shimmering Lotus Ocean and across the sea from Luojia Mountain. With its back against the mountain and its sea in front, the temple exudes a simple and elegant elegance. Its plaque, "Butan Zizhulin," was inscribed by the renowned modern Chinese thinker Kang Youwei. The main hall of Zizhulin Temple houses a white marble statue of Zizhu Guanyin, who manifests in various forms to inspire various good roots. A vast cape and valley stretches before Zizhulin Temple, where the sea and sky merge into one.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province, China (中国浙江舟山市紫竹林禅院)

  • History: Zizhulin Chan Temple is a historic Buddhist temple with a history dating back several centuries. It has been a place of meditation, study, and cultural preservation for local Buddhist communities.

  • Architecture: The temple features traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture with curved tiled roofs, ornate wooden carvings, and serene courtyards. Key structures include the main hall, meditation halls, bell and drum towers, and the surrounding bamboo groves.

  • Cultural Value: The temple is an important religious and cultural site, offering insight into Chinese Chan (Zen) Buddhism, traditional temple architecture, and local spiritual practices. It also hosts Buddhist festivals and meditation retreats.

  • Other Information: The surrounding bamboo forest (Zizhulin) enhances the tranquility of the temple, making it ideal for reflection, meditation, and photography. Visitors can also learn about Buddhist rituals and art.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Ticket Price: ¥20 per adult
    ¥10 per child / student

  • Best Photo Spots: Main Hall (大雄宝殿)
    Bamboo grove pathways (竹林小径)
    Bell and Drum Towers (钟鼓楼)
    Courtyard gardens with stone lanterns

  • Time Reference: 1–2 hours for a temple visit; 2–3 hours including meditation and walking through the bamboo forest.

  • Other Information: Visitors should be respectful of ongoing religious ceremonies. Photography inside certain halls may be restricted.

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury: Zhoushan International Hotel (舟山国际大酒店)
    Bamboo Bay Resort (竹湾度假酒店)
  • Mid-range: Zhoushan Riverside Hotel (舟山江畔酒店)
    Lotus Garden Inn (莲花园客栈)
  • Budget & Boutique: Local Guesthouse near Temple (寺庙附近民宿)
    Zhoushan Small Inn (舟山小旅馆)

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes: Zhoushan seafood (舟山海鲜)
    Bamboo shoot dishes (竹笋菜)
    Local vegetarian temple meals (素斋)
  • Famous Spots: Temple Vegetarian Restaurant (禅院素斋餐厅)
    Riverside seafood restaurants
    Local noodle shops

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • Buddhist prayer beads (念珠)
    Temple incense (香)
    Bamboo crafts (竹制工艺品)
    Local tea (舟山茶叶)

Transportation

  • By bus: Local buses connect Zhoushan city center to the temple area.
  • By taxi: Taxis are available from downtown Zhoushan or nearby attractions.
  • By private car: Accessible via Zhoushan main roads; parking available near temple entrance.
  • Walking: The temple grounds and bamboo paths are best explored on foot.

Nearby Attractions

  • Bamboo Forest Scenic Trail (竹林步道) – ~0.5 km, walkable along paved path
  • Zhoushan Ancient Pagoda (舟山古塔) – 1.2 km, accessible by walking or short taxi ride
  • Riverside Viewing Pavilion (江畔观景台) – 1.8 km, reachable on foot or by bike

Tips for Visitors

  • Maintain silence and respect meditation areas.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking in bamboo paths and temple grounds.
  • Best visiting months: Spring and Autumn for pleasant weather and lush greenery.
  • Bring a water bottle and light snacks; food is limited inside the temple.
  • Photography may be restricted inside main halls; follow temple regulations.
  • Consider visiting early morning to experience a serene atmosphere and fewer crowds.
  • Insect repellent is recommended during summer months.

Recommended itineraries

  • Half-Day Temple & Bamboo Walk:
    Zizhulin Chan Temple (紫竹林禅院) → Bamboo Grove Path (竹林步道) → Riverside Pavilion → Return
  • Full-Day Cultural & Nature Tour:
    D1: Zizhulin Chan Temple → Bamboo Forest Scenic Trail → Lunch at Temple Vegetarian Restaurant → Zhoushan Ancient Pagoda → Evening riverside walk → Return to hotel
  • Two-Day Zhoushan Exploration:
    D1: Zizhulin Chan Temple → Bamboo Grove Path → Overnight at Bamboo Bay Resort
    D2: Riverside Viewing Pavilion → Zhoushan Ancient Pagoda → Local seafood lunch → Return to Zhoushan city

User Reviews

By Phineas |

Zizhulin Zen Temple is located south of Baibusan and west of Chaoyin Cave, at the foot of Meitan Ridge in the southeastern part of Putuo Mountain. Facing the shimmering Lotus Ocean, it faces Luojia Mountain across the sea. With its back against the mountain and its seafront facing, the temple exudes a simple and elegant elegance. Its plaque, "Butan Zizhulin," was inscribed by Kang Youwei, a renowned modern Chinese thinker. The main hall of Zizhulin Temple houses a white marble statue of Zizhu Guanyin, who manifests in various forms to inspire various good roots. The site has housed the "Guanyinyan Temple" since the Song Dynasty, which, after several destructions and reconstructions, ultimately became the present-day Zizhulin Temple.

Zizhulin Zen Monastery comprises the Heavenly King Hall, Yuantong Hall, and Reclining Buddha Hall. The Yuantong Hall houses a 2.8-meter-tall seated statue of the Burmese jade Zizhu Guanyin, while the Reclining Buddha Hall houses a 3.6-meter-long, 4.5-ton white marble reclining Buddha statue of Sakyamuni imported from Myanmar. The statue is both majestic and rare.

By pufferfish |

Putuo Zizhulin Zen Temple: A tranquil retreat within the Nanhai Guanyin monastery. Nestled among lush purple bamboos, its white walls and black tiles contrast with the sea and sky, evoking a rich Zen atmosphere. Worship Guanyin amidst the morning and evening bells, and the lingering Buddhist chants resonate throughout your ears, leaving you feeling a spiritual cleansing. The exquisitely landscaped courtyard features towering ancient trees, winding stone paths, and Zen reflections at every turn. Behind the temple lies Chaoyin Cave, where you can quietly listen to the waves chanting sutras. Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the ethereal atmosphere of forest mist and Buddhist incense. Please dress modestly and observe respectful silence during your visit.

By hyacinth! |

Zizhulin Temple, nestled against the mountains and facing the sea, is a quaint and elegant temple. Its plaque, "Butan Zizhulin," was inscribed by Kang Youwei, a renowned modern Chinese thinker. The main hall of Zizhulin Temple houses a white marble statue of the Purple Bamboo Guanyin.

By Sea breeze boat |

The full name of the Purple Bamboo Forest Zen Monastery is "Buddha Purple Bamboo Forest." Its main hall is the Yuantong Hall, with a plaque reading "Compassion and Fate Are One." Its main enshrinement is a white marble statue of the Purple Bamboo Guanyin. The temple also features numerous traces of purple bamboo elements, including sculptures and paintings.

By Teacher Yang Gongzi |

It is just one of the more distinctive temples in Putuo Mountain.

By Little Pig Man |

This is actually a seminary, and there are many bonuses.

By fincen |

At the southern end of Putuo Mountain, on the way to Nanhai Guanyin, you can see it. It is also a well-known Zen temple, which contains the Bukenqu Guanyin Temple and Chaoyin Cave.

By silver |

I've been there for three years in a row, once a year. I never took any photos of the Purple Bamboo Forest, though I always thought I did. There's transportation to the Purple Bamboo Forest Zen Temple, but most people skip it to burn incense and worship, going directly to the Nanhai Guanyin statue. Therefore, the Purple Bamboo Forest is relatively quiet, and if you visit early in the morning, you can even catch a beautiful sunrise.

By envy |

Don't want to miss any of the attractions, the air in the yard is fresh

By abelabel |

Zizhulin Zen Temple is located south of Baibusha and west of Chaoyin Cave, facing the shimmering Lotus Ocean and across the sea from Luojia Mountain. The location is really great.

By Big Hae Walking |

The Purple Bamboo Forest Scenic Area is located at the foot of Meitanling Mountain in the southeast of Putuo Mountain, Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province. Take Line 1 from the Putuo Mountain Pier Parking Lot and get off at "Purple Bamboo Forest" (fare 3 yuan/person).

Zizhulin Scenic Area 5 yuan (including Zizhulin Zen Temple, Bukenqu Guanyin Temple, and Chaoyin Cave)

By Cape of Good Hope |

Legend has it that this was the place where Guanyin Bodhisattva originally lived and practiced. The inscription on the temple's plaque, "Butan Zizhulin," was written by Kang Youwei, a famous modern Chinese thinker.

By Hawaii also has winter |

Legend has it that the Purple Bamboo Forest Temple is the place where Guanyin Bodhisattva practiced asceticism. In Journey to the West, the Purple Bamboo Forest is Guanyin Bodhisattva's residence. Whenever Tang Sanzang and his companions were in danger, Sun Wukong would somersault 108,000 miles to the Purple Bamboo Forest to seek help from Guanyin Bodhisattva.

In my imagination, the Purple Bamboo Forest is a beautiful bamboo forest, shrouded in mist and filled with Bodhisattvas sitting in the midst of the bamboos. However, there are no purple bamboos in the Purple Bamboo Forest today. The so-called Purple Bamboo Forest does not refer to the fact that purple bamboos grow there, but rather to the fact that the cross-sections of the rocks here have purple patterns resembling bamboo leaves, which later led to the planting of purple bamboos there.

By Yvonnechan525 |

We were on a tour group, so we just rushed past all the attractions along the way.

By Peach blossoms in full bloom |

The temple is very beautiful, with smoke curling around it and many people worshipping Buddha.

By Orangeらmm |

It's okay to pass by here before going to Zizhulin Scenic Area.

By Zhang Feiteng |

Worship Buddha, burn incense, and pray, but your heart must be sincere, it is very effective.

By China-TravelNote users |

I come to Putuo Mountain every year to burn incense and pray for my family's safety and happiness. I love it here!!!

By Han Fei Home |

Outside the Purple Bamboo Forest Zen Temple, there is indeed a purple bamboo forest planted to suit the scene, but the black bear monster that stole the cassock is nowhere to be seen.

By make a sightseeing tour |

Zizhulin is located southeast of Putuo Mountain, next to the Nanhai Guanyin Scenic Area. It also houses the Bukenqu Guanyin Temple and Chaoyin Cave. Originally built in the Ming Dynasty and renovated in the Qing Dynasty, Zizhulin is a nunnery with the inscription "Butan Zizhulin." The main hall houses a white marble statue of Guanyin.

By A drop in the ocean |

The view is wide, and Luojia Mountain is opposite, which is suitable for burning incense and enjoying the scenery.

By Zheng Jijiao |

According to legend, Guanyin practiced Taoism here, and the temples in the scenic area are also very popular. It is close to where we live, so it is the first scenic spot we visited when we came to Putuo.

By  Shun Shun |

Guanyin refused to leave, leaving only the Buddha's light to shine. The Buddha's light on the sea and sky, when the sun sets, is an endless scenery.

By Zhao Huoding |

It is adjacent to the Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple. It is not a very big temple, but the surrounding scenery is beautiful, and you can also see the statue of Nanhai Guanyin!

By Red Tin Man |

The reconstructed scenic spot, the best location to overlook Luojia Mountain

By Homer |

A peaceful place with lush greenery and clear air

By Jianghai was once a guest |

The tour is very standardized, there is no random asking for incense money, and the scenic area clearly advises tourists to only burn three incense sticks. The incense in the scenic area is cheap. This is the best temple I have seen.

By Flying water droplets |

I will always go to the places where Guanyin Bodhisattva has been.

By Spock, the man who traveled all over the world |

My lovely daughter, I stroke the zither, Yan Xi, I am in the bamboo forest

By iamdv |

The incense burner has been polished to a shine by tourists, but the Overseas Fairy Mountain opposite the Zizhu Zen Temple is very beautiful, so you should go and see it if you have the chance.

By candy |

Now that you have gone to Putuo Mountain, you must go there.

By Anemarrhena aspergillus |

A small temple. You can take a look at the scenery around it.

By Condensation Rain |

It was raining when I went there, and walking in the rain was particularly exciting.

By Listening to the Rain in a Bamboo House |

I like this place very much, it is quiet and peaceful, without the noise of the three major temples.

By smiled |

It is adjacent to the Bu Ken Qu Guanyin Temple. It is not a very big temple, but the surrounding scenery is beautiful, and you can also see the statue of Nanhai Guanyin!

By dannyboy |

Although it is newly built, it is really beautiful. It is a very successful example of antique imitation. The temple is very popular. Although I am a believer, I prefer ancient Chinese architecture. It completely satisfies my senses.

By Queen Bee |

This place is together with the Bukenqu Guanyin Temple. There are relatively few people. The reef near the sea is a sight to behold. As for temples, Puji Temple and Fayu Temple are more reliable. Overall, it's average. The only bad thing is that the service here lacks human touch and humanity. It's a bit embarrassing for us Zhejiang people.

By Yen |

It is a relatively simple temple that still retains its ancient style.

By Moonlight |

I initially thought the Purple Bamboo Forest would be a lush, verdant bamboo forest, with the sound of Buddhist chanting echoing through the Zen temple, and a gentle breeze casting a purple hue. However, it's actually just a small, unnoticeable bamboo forest beside the road. I crossed the small path and arrived at the Purple Bamboo Forest Zen Temple. I walked inside, took a few turns, and then left because it was too crowded. After the Purple Bamboo Forest, I decided to visit Guanyin Temple and Chaoyin Cave, which are worth visiting along the way.

I think the most beautiful view of Zizhulin is the sea around it. The vast sea and sky, the waves crashing against the shore, suddenly reminded me of Cao Mengde, who was full of heroic spirit and looked out at the vast ocean from Jieshi in the east.

By Jessica Ho |

The Zizhulin Zen Temple on Baibusha faces the shimmering Lotus Ocean. Legend has it that this is where Guanyin Bodhisattva originally resided and practiced. Beyond the temple lies a vast cape valley, lush with flowers and trees and filled with clear springs. From this southeastern viewpoint, the Lotus Ocean, White Sand Island, Chaoyang Pavilion, and Fanyin Cave blend in harmoniously, creating a stunning vantage point. Consequently, the area is always crowded with tourists, shrouded in incense, and a must-see for those seeking to capture the beauty of nature.

By Chirp, meet the angel |

The inscription "Butan Zizhulin" on the temple's plaque was written by Kang Youwei, a famous modern Chinese thinker. The main hall houses a white marble statue of Zizhu Guanyin.

By Sarah |

After arriving at Nanhai Guanyin, there is a small fork road that leads to Zizhulin Zen Temple. Be sure to bring a lighter with you when you get here because there is no place to light incense!

By Carrie Bradshaw |

The place where my family comes to worship Buddha every year is very beautiful and solemn.

By MinH |

A quiet place to cultivate your body and mind, it is worth a visit~

By Jiangshan Meiren Soup |

It's a beautiful place, very quiet. I like it just by hearing the name.

By lovefaye1016 |

A Buddhist holy land, a pure land in all directions. Wherever you go, your soul will be purified.

By Heart is far away |

It's beautiful, the environment is so beautiful. There are quite a lot of people coming here to visit and worship. There is also a constant stream of people praying.

By kitten |

Putuo Mountain is very big, and we visited almost all of it.

By Migrating moose |

It's just okay, there's nothing special about the scenery, just worship Buddha

By Big Mosquito |

It is a very beautiful temple with southern characteristics. There is a vast beach not far in front of the temple. The white marble statue of Guanyin enshrined in it is also very grand and solemn. It is worth visiting.

By Roxanne |

When I went there, the fog was so thick that it really felt like a fairyland. It was amazing. As for the building itself, it felt similar.

By 11 |

Putuo Mountain Scenic Area, in the Purple Bamboo Forest where the Guanyin Bodhisattva statue is located

By Safin Xiaofan |

Zizhulin Temple is located to the left of the ferry terminal at Putuoshan Scenic Area, about a 15-minute walk away, and is adjacent to Nanhai Guanyin Temple. The entrance fee is 5 yuan, which includes a ticket to Zizhulin Temple, the Bukenqu Guanyin Temple, and Chaoyin Cave. While not one of the three major temples, Zizhulin Temple offers stunning views from its location by the sea, making it a must-see!

By Life is like a dream |

Putuo Mountain is a must-visit place. It houses a white marble statue of Guanyin. When you kneel down and then stand up to look into the eyes of Guanyin Bodhisattva, you will feel traces of tears. This is the compassionate eye that pities the wandering and confused beings in the Saha world.

By Cypress trees in front of the courtyard |

The Zen temple is not large, and the Maitreya statue at the entrance faces the sea. The scenery is very good and you can finish the tour in about 5 minutes. It is worth a walk.

By sll |

The Zen temple is not big, but the environment is very good. You can hear the roaring waves and the rolling whitecaps.

By Lollipop |

Holy land, a place of pilgrimage, it is a baptism of the soul every time. I will come to worship again!

By Want to go far away |

This place is very close to the sea and is dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva. The scenery outside is beautiful and the interior is solemn. I like this place very much.

By Small islands |

Like other temples in Putuo Mountain, Zizhulin Zen Temple is not big, but it is small and has a unique layout. The temple is located on the seaside, facing the sea, with a unique artistic conception.

By Su Xiaocun |

The Zizhulin Zen Temple on Baibusha faces the shimmering Lotus Ocean. Legend has it that this is where Guanyin Bodhisattva originally lived and practiced.

Beyond Zizhulin Temple lies a vast cape valley, lush with flowers and trees and steeped in clear springs. Looking southeast from here, the Lotus Ocean, White Sand Island, Chaoyang Pavilion, and Fanyin Cave blend in beautifully, creating a stunning vantage point. Consequently, the area is always crowded with tourists, shrouded in incense, and a must-see for those seeking to explore the surrounding landscape.

By Crown Prince |

A very quiet temple is very interesting and worth visiting

By round and round |

When you go to a scenic spot, especially a temple, you must be prepared for crowds of people and smog that makes it hard to breathe.

By Cici Wang |

Legend has it that this is where Guanyin Bodhisattva originally lived and practiced. It is a must-see for pilgrims from Putuo Mountain, with its abundant incense and superb scenery.

Ticket price: 5 yuan.

Note: There is no place to burn incense here.

By Baby |

There is no entrance fee to the Purple Bamboo Forest. It is very large and has many attractions, including the Purple Bamboo Forest Zen Temple, the Unwilling to Go Guanyin Temple and the Chaoyin Cave. You can also overlook the Lotus Ocean and the Sleeping Buddha of Luojia Mountain from afar. Whether you are traveling or worshipping Buddha, this is a place you cannot miss.

By No trace of dust |

The Zizhulin Zen Temple on Baibusha faces the shimmering Lotus Ocean. Legend has it that this is where Guanyin Bodhisattva originally lived and practiced.

By 5!ve |

Zizhulin Zen Temple is located on the seaside. The quiet Zen temple and the vast sea make people feel relaxed.

By Tree |

Quietness is a feature. In this small corner, it is so quiet that no one seems to be stopping anywhere.

By Shangya Culture |

You can communicate with the masters, offer sacrifices to the Buddha, and interact with people. Just be sincere and don't think too much. Have a quiet and peaceful mind.

By Truelight |

You can go and have a look. People who believe in Buddhism should go there, and those who are sightseeing can just take a look.

By June |

There are three levels of temples in the nunnery. The third level, the Great Compassion Tower, houses a white marble reclining Buddha imported from Myanmar.

By Unlimited Freedom |

It is similar to other temple attractions. If you are interested and have the energy, you can go and have a look.

By Old words |

Although Zizhulin Zen Temple is not as grand and majestic as the three major Zen temples on Putuo Mountain, it still retains the solemnity of a Buddhist temple.

By Jing Xiaojing |

The bamboo is really purple. This is the first time I see it.

By horus |

Namo Guanyin Bodhisattva! This is a key attraction in the Zizhulin Scenic Area, very close to the Bukenqu Guanyin Temple. A must-see. Please do more good deeds. For details, please refer to my super travel guide.

By Benzodiazepines |

The scenery is beautiful. You should definitely go see it. The island is small and can be explored in a day. It's also a great place for artistic enthusiasts to take photos. Remember to wear clothes with contrasting colors. It will look great in photos.


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