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Chengtian Temple, also known as Yuetai Temple, is located on the east side of Nanjun Lane, opposite Chengtian Lane, in the center of Quanzhou City, Fujian Province. It was built in the Southern Tang Dynasty (957-958 AD) and has been rebuilt many times throughout the dynasties. It is known as one of the three major monasteries in Quanzhou, along with Kaiyuan Temple and Chongfu Temple. It has many wonders such as "spotless" and "fragrant plum and stone".
Chengtian Temple boasts a tranquil setting, evoking the feeling of an urban forest, a rare garden setting amidst the bustling city. The ten wonders of this "urban forest" are: Breeze through the Pines, Plum Blossoms in the Square Pond, Rising Sun over the Rolling Curtains, Midday Shade over the Banyan Path, Birdless Pagoda, Bright Moon over the Jade Terrace, Rainy Night over the Flying Fly, Sounds of Bamboo in the Whistling Temple, Parrot Song in the Evening Clouds, and Parrot-like Stones.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour
free
9:00~18:30
Chengtian Temple is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in Quanzhou, Fujian. Originally built in the Tang Dynasty, it holds great cultural and religious importance in the region, serving as a center for Buddhist worship and learning. The temple is renowned for its historical architecture and its role in the development of Buddhism in southern China.
Chengtian Temple is located in the city of Quanzhou, Fujian. It can be accessed easily by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking from nearby attractions is also possible if you enjoy exploring the local area on foot.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon when the temple is less crowded and the temperature is cooler.
The entrance fee to the temple is typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There are no online booking options currently available for the temple.
Advance booking is not required, and you can purchase tickets directly at the entrance. However, it is advisable to arrive early, especially during weekends or public holidays, to avoid waiting in line.
A visit to Chengtian Temple typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. This includes exploring the temple’s various halls, enjoying the architecture, and perhaps taking time for reflection or meditation.
Guided tours are available, usually in Mandarin, and some guides may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides are typically available in Mandarin, but it’s recommended to check availability upon arrival.
Start your visit by entering the main hall and exploring its religious artifacts. Then, take a walk through the temple's garden and courtyard. If the temple has a pagoda or elevated area, make sure to visit it for the best views of the temple grounds.
Currently, there are no special night tours or light shows available at Chengtian Temple. However, the temple is beautifully lit at night, and visitors can still enjoy the exterior of the temple in the evening.
The temple can get busy during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-peak tourist season, such as the winter months.
Basic facilities such as toilets and water fountains are available on-site. There are no large shops or food courts within the temple grounds, but small shops selling religious items and souvenirs may be found nearby.
The temple is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, there may be steps or uneven paths that could pose difficulties for disabled visitors. It is recommended to check with the temple staff about accessibility options before visiting.
Mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) and cash are both accepted at the temple. It’s advisable to use mobile payments for convenience.
There are several local restaurants and eateries near Chengtian Temple offering traditional Fujian cuisine. You can find noodle shops, tea houses, and restaurants serving local seafood and snacks in the area.
Vegetarian food options are widely available, especially in the nearby restaurants catering to Buddhist visitors. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found in certain eateries in the area.
There are several budget hotels and mid-range accommodations near the temple. For those seeking luxury accommodations, there are high-end hotels available in Quanzhou’s city center, which is a short drive away.
Souvenir shops near the temple sell Buddhist-themed items such as prayer beads, incense, and statues of the Buddha. You can also find traditional Chinese handicrafts and local snacks.
After visiting Chengtian Temple, taxis or public buses are the best options to continue your trip. The Quanzhou Railway Station is easily accessible by taxi for further travel.
