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Kaiyuan Temple, located on Xi Street in Licheng District, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, is a significant cultural relic on China's southeastern coast and the largest Buddhist temple in Fujian Province. Founded in the second year of the Chuigong reign (686 AD) during the early Tang Dynasty, the temple was initially named Lianhua Daochang and renamed Kaiyuan Temple in the 26th year of the Kaiyuan reign (738 AD). The existing main structure, constructed during the Ming and Qing dynasties, stretches 260 meters from north to south and 300 meters from east to west, covering an area of 78,000 square meters.
Suitable for all seasons
1-2 hours
free
All day
Quanzhou Kaiyuan Temple is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in Fujian, China. It was originally built during the Tang Dynasty (618–907) and is an important center of Buddhist culture in the region. The temple has been a site for religious ceremonies and a symbol of cultural heritage for centuries.
The temple is located in the city of Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China. You can take a bus, taxi, or walk from the city center to the temple. The nearest metro station is around 10 km away, so taxis are a convenient option for reaching the temple directly.
The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Quanzhou Kaiyuan Temple. However, donations are appreciated. You can also purchase souvenirs and offerings inside the temple complex.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for the temple as it is free to visit. However, if you plan to participate in special ceremonies or tours, it may be advisable to check availability in advance.
To fully explore the temple and enjoy its serene atmosphere, 1 to 2 hours should be sufficient. If you plan to explore the surrounding areas or other nearby historical sites, you might want to extend your visit.
Guided tours may be available, especially for groups. It's recommended to check with the temple staff for tour options. Most tours are available in Mandarin, but some guides may speak basic English.
Start at the main entrance and visit the central hall, then move to the pagoda area. Take time to walk through the temple grounds and relax in the garden. If possible, observe or participate in a ceremony. Lastly, explore the surrounding area to appreciate the historical significance of Quanzhou.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Quanzhou Kaiyuan Temple. However, special religious ceremonies or cultural events may occur in the evenings, so it's worth checking the temple's schedule in advance.
The temple can get crowded, especially on weekends and during religious holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays in the morning or late afternoon.
The temple provides basic amenities such as public toilets, rest areas, and a small shop where you can buy Buddhist offerings, souvenirs, and incense. There are also food vendors nearby offering snacks and drinks.
The temple is mostly accessible, but the terrain around the pagoda and certain areas may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s advisable to check the accessibility options on-site for assistance.
Cash is widely accepted at the temple, especially for donations and offerings. Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted at most shops and food stalls nearby.
Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants, particularly in those that cater to Buddhist visitors. Vegan and Halal food may be more limited, but vegetarian-friendly dishes are common in the area.
Yes, there are souvenir shops within and around the temple where you can buy religious items such as incense, Buddha statues, prayer beads, and local handicrafts.
