Amitabha Rock

What are the most recommended things to do in Amitabha Rock?

  • Climb Amitabha Rock to enjoy breathtaking views of Quanzhou and the surrounding areas.
  • Visit the Amitabha Temple located near the rock, an important site for local Buddhist practices.
  • Take a peaceful stroll around the rock, surrounded by nature and offering a tranquil atmosphere for reflection.
  • Enjoy photography of the unique rock formations and the scenic beauty of the area.
  • Learn about the historical and religious significance of Amitabha Rock from local guides or informational signs.

Introducing Amitābha Rock

Amitabha Rock is located on the "Yixiao Terrace" on the hillside of the left peak of Qingyuan Mountain in Quanzhou City, Fujian Province. In 1364, the 24th year of the Zhizheng reign of the Yuan Dynasty, a stone chamber imitating a wooden structure was built against the rock face. The 5.6-meter-wide chamber features an inscribed "Amitabha Buddha" on the door lintel. A 5-meter-tall relief of a standing Amitabha Buddha is carved into the rock face on the back wall. It is a provincially protected key cultural relic. Beyond the rock face, other attractions include "One Line of Sky," "Cloud Terrace," "Connecting Heart Stone," "Quanku Waterfall Viewing Cave," and "Master Hongyi's Stupa."

In 1364, during the 24th year of the Zhizheng reign of the Yuan Dynasty, a stone chamber imitating a wooden structure was built against the rock face. This chamber is 5.6 meters wide and features the inscription "Amitabha Buddha" on the door lintel. A 5-meter-tall relief of a standing Amitabha Buddha is carved into the rock face on the back wall of the chamber. It is a provincially protected key cultural relic. Beyond the rock face, other attractions include "A Line of Sky," "Cloud Terrace," "Connecting Heart Stone," "Quanku Viewing Waterfall," and "Master Hongyi's Relic Pagoda."

Mituoyan is one of the main attractions in the "Sanskrit Sounds in the Deep Valley" artistic conception area of ​​Qingyuan Mountain Scenic Area. In May 1961, it was announced as a key cultural relic protection site in Fujian Province.

Climate and best time to travel

With its subtropical monsoon humid climate, this is a great place to climb high and enjoy the view, drink wine and enjoy the breeze. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Above the Amitabha Rock Chamber, climb up the "Searching for Buddhist Scriptures" steps. Under the steep stone wall, there is a stone carving of the word "Buddha" written by Ma Fushu, the land admiral of Fujian during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. It is known as the "No. 1 Buddha in Fujian Sea"; the cliff carving of the two words "Baiguan" written by the famous Chinese calligrapher and painter Huang Zhou is even more shining and spectacular.

On the left side of the cliff in front of the stone chamber, a huge rock stands tall, with a banyan tree growing on it. Ancient people carved inscriptions such as "Yixiaotai" and "Yungu" into the rock. Standing on it, one feels as if one is floating in the air. Looking out into the distance, one can see the winding Jin River, the twin towers soaring into the sky, and the new look of the ancient city.

Tickets

140 yuan/person (included in the Wuyishan Scenic Area ticket)

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00


Most Popular FAQs for Amitabha Rock

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

Amitabha Rock is a significant cultural and religious landmark in Quanzhou, Fujian. It is named after the Buddhist figure Amitabha, associated with peace and salvation. The rock is known for its religious importance and its role as a place of meditation and pilgrimage. It has also been a site of Buddhist ceremonies and teachings for centuries.

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

Amitabha Rock is located in the southern part of Quanzhou, Fujian. It is easily accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. If you enjoy walking, it's a pleasant hike from nearby landmarks. Taxis are the quickest way to reach the site if you're not familiar with the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The rock and the nearby Amitabha Temple are generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, when the temperature is cooler and the site is less crowded.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 20-30 RMB for visitors. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and there is no online booking option at this time.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required. It is generally sufficient to buy tickets on-site. However, during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it's recommended to arrive early to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 1 to 2 hours to explore Amitabha Rock and its surroundings. This includes climbing the rock, visiting the temple, and enjoying the views. If you wish to take photographs or meditate, you may want to spend more time.

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

  • The summit of Amitabha Rock for panoramic views of Quanzhou.
  • Amitabha Temple, known for its religious significance and beautiful architecture.
  • The serene surroundings, ideal for meditation and contemplation.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some guides offering basic English services. Audio guides may also be available at the entrance, providing more detailed historical and religious context in several languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The summit of Amitabha Rock provides the best panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
  • The area around the Amitabha Temple is great for capturing the peaceful atmosphere of the site.
  • Photographs of the unique rock formations, with the temple in the background, are very popular.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by entering the temple to explore its spiritual ambiance. Afterward, climb Amitabha Rock for stunning views and take time to enjoy the surrounding scenery. You can then relax and meditate in the peaceful areas around the rock.

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

There are no special light shows or night tours at Amitabha Rock. However, the site is beautifully lit up at night, and visitors can still enjoy the view from the outside after dark.

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

Amitabha Rock can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during off-peak months such as late autumn or winter.

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

Basic facilities like toilets, rest areas, and water fountains are available near the entrance. There are no major shops inside the site, but small stalls selling local snacks and souvenirs can be found in the surrounding area.

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

The rock itself can be challenging to climb for elderly or disabled visitors due to its steepness. However, the surrounding areas and the temple are accessible to people with mobility issues. Children will enjoy the nature and open spaces for play.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the site, and cash is also accepted. It’s recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near the Amitabha Rock, offering traditional Fujian cuisine such as seafood, noodles, and local snacks. You can also find tea houses serving traditional Chinese teas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available, especially in Buddhist-themed eateries. Halal food options may be more limited, but you can find them in specific restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several budget and mid-range hotels are available nearby, as well as higher-end accommodations in the city center of Quanzhou. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

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

  • Quanzhou's famous East and West Towers are nearby and make for a great day trip when combined with a visit to Amitabha Rock.
  • Nearby Kaiyuan Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Fujian, is also worth visiting.
  • The Qingjing Mosque, an ancient mosque with historical significance, is another nearby attraction.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops selling Buddhist-themed items, such as prayer beads, incense, and decorative figures of Amitabha, are available near the site. You can also find traditional Chinese handicrafts and local snacks.

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

After visiting Amitabha Rock, taxis, buses, or rideshare services like Didi are the best options to continue your trip. The Quanzhou Railway Station is easily accessible by taxi for those planning to travel to other destinations in Fujian.