Huxi Zen Temple

Introducing Huxi Temple

Located at the foot of Yuping Mountain in the northeast corner of Siming District, it is said that in ancient times, a cave in the valley housed a tiger, known as the Tiger Cave. The gurgling water below the cave converged into a stream, hence the name "Tiger Creek." On Tiger Creek Mountain, lush forests, deep ravines, jagged rocks, and clear springs are found. "Tiger Creek at Night Moon" is listed as one of Xiamen's eight most scenic spots.

Construction of Huxi Rock began in the late Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1602-1620). At the time, there was a scholar named Lin Maoshi in Xiamen who was obsessed with rocks and called himself a "stone maniac." Inspired by the mountain's towering, steep cliffs, he personally carved caves there, armed with a hoe and a spade. He first built the "White Deer Cave" on the mountain's back, and the "Lingceng Room" and "Motian Cave" at the front. He personally inscribed the four large characters "Lingceng" and "Motian" on each cave entrance.

According to the "Xiamen Chronicles," during the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty, another scholar, Chi Xianfang, built the "Yuping Temple" on Yuping Mountain. Yuping Temple was destroyed during the wars in Xiamen during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. In the 40th year of Emperor Kangxi's reign (1700), Wu Ying, the admiral of the Fujian Navy, donated his salary to build Huxiyan Temple and hired Monk Yuanfei from Jinjiang to oversee its construction. Monk Yuanfei was the fourth-generation disciple of Monk Yinyuan, who traveled to Japan to preach at Wanfu Temple on Huangbo Mountain. With Monk Yuanfei as the first generation, the lineage has been passed down for centuries. It has been passed down for sixteen generations. The twelfth generation, Huiquan, passed down the "Hong, Kai, Xiang, Shang, and Zong" generation names, with the "Kai" and "Xiang" generation names being the most common. Monk Yuanfei oversaw the reconstruction of Huxiyan Temple. Over a decade of work, he rebuilt the Main Hall, Xiaofeng Pavilion, Chuiyun Tower, the Crossing Tiger Bridge, the mountain path, and the stone enclosure in front of the temple. Upon completion, Yuping Temple was renamed Huxiyan Temple.

Climate and best time to travel

With its subtropical marine monsoon climate, many Buddhists come here to burn incense, worship Buddha, and recite scriptures. By worshipping Buddha here, you can feel the influence of Buddhism. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to appreciate the Buddhist architectural features and pray for blessings and worship Buddha.

Play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Huxi Zen Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Huxi Zen Temple is a significant Buddhist site in Xiamen, known for its Zen teachings and spiritual ambiance. Established during the Tang dynasty, the temple has long been a center for meditation and religious activities. It is dedicated to spreading the principles of Zen Buddhism, and its serene environment is ideal for reflection and quiet contemplation.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Huxi Zen Temple is located in the southeastern part of Xiamen. It is accessible by taxi, bus, or even walking if you're near the Xiamen University area. The nearest bus stop is a short walk away, and the temple can also be reached from the Xiamen Railway Station by a 15-minute drive.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is typically open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the temple is quieter and more peaceful, ideal for meditation or simply enjoying the surroundings.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for visiting Huxi Zen Temple. However, some special ceremonies or meditation sessions may require a small donation or fee. These can be paid in person at the temple.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets need to be booked in advance for general visits. However, if you plan to participate in a special Zen retreat or meditation session, it is recommended to book in advance by contacting the temple directly.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Huxi Zen Temple can be fully explored in about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in meditation and the temple's peaceful surroundings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the serene Buddha statues, the tranquil courtyard, and the ancient Zen meditation halls. The temple’s main hall and the surrounding gardens are also notable for their peaceful atmosphere and architectural beauty.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, but they are typically in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but a local guide can assist with explaining the temple’s history and significance if needed.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the main hall with its stunning statues, the beautiful gardens surrounding the temple, and the peaceful courtyards. Early morning or late afternoon light creates beautiful photo opportunities with the temple’s architecture as the backdrop.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering through the main gate and walk towards the main hall. Explore the courtyard and take time to observe the Zen gardens. If you're interested in deeper spiritual engagement, you can spend time in the meditation area or participate in any ongoing ceremonies.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically available, as the temple closes in the early evening. There are no light shows, but the temple’s quiet and spiritual atmosphere makes it ideal for those seeking inner peace.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The temple can get crowded during weekends or Buddhist holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early morning, which is also the best time for a peaceful experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The temple has basic facilities including public toilets and water stations. There are no restaurants inside the temple, but small shops nearby offer snacks and refreshments. Rest areas are available in the temple grounds for relaxation and meditation.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple’s grounds are accessible, but some areas may involve stairs or uneven paths. It may not be the easiest place for wheelchair users, but elderly visitors and children can enjoy the main areas of the temple and gardens.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used for donations or small purchases at the temple.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby, there are several small eateries and cafes offering local Fujianese dishes and light snacks. For more variety, head towards the city center where you can find a wider selection of restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are readily available in the nearby restaurants, especially in the context of traditional Buddhist cuisine. Halal options may be available in other parts of Xiamen, though not specifically within the vicinity of the temple.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near Huxi Zen Temple, ranging from budget options to more luxurious stays. The Xiamen University area offers a variety of accommodations that are a short distance from the temple.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Xiamen University, Gulangyu Island, and Nanputuo Temple. These landmarks can easily be combined into a day trip from Huxi Zen Temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist-related items such as incense, statues, and prayer beads. Traditional Fujianese handicrafts can also be found in the area.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the temple, taxis and buses are readily available for onward travel. If you're heading to Gulangyu Island, ferry services are located nearby. Public transport is easy to access for further exploration of Xiamen.