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Located on the banks of Baiyuanchuan Lake in Licheng District, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, the Fuwen Temple, also known as the Fuxue (Prefectural School), was originally built in the late Kaiyuan period of the Tang Dynasty and relocated to its current location in the early Taipingxingguo period of the Northern Song Dynasty (976-981 AD). With a long history, grand scale, and magnificent halls, the Fuwen Temple is a Confucian temple complex that integrates architectural styles from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. It is the largest Confucian temple complex in Southeast China, and its architectural style is rare among existing Confucian temples in China. The temple houses the Quanzhou Fuwen Temple Cultural Relics Exhibition Hall, the Quanzhou Historical Figures Memorial Hall, and the Quanzhou Ancient Education Exhibition Hall.
The main building, the Dacheng Hall, is a classic Song Dynasty double-eaved hipped-roof structure. It measures 35.3 meters wide (7 bays) and 22.7 meters deep (5 bays). Its wooden structure, with bracket arches and raised beams, is supported by 48 white stone pillars. The facade features eight columns with reliefs depicting coiled dragons. Its simple style is rare among existing Confucian temples throughout China. A terrace is built in front of the hall, inlaid with reliefs of diabase stone, including lotus, double lotus, hibiscus, camellia, peony, and hibiscus. The passageway and worship hall below the terrace are lined with ancient banyan trees, and outside the courtyard is a crescent-shaped pond.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour
free
8:00-17:30
Fuwen Temple, located in Quanzhou, Fujian, is a significant Buddhist temple known for its long history and spiritual importance. Originally built during the Tang dynasty, the temple has been an important center for Buddhist worship and practice in the region. It holds cultural and architectural value, with many visitors coming to appreciate its historical legacy and serene environment.
Fuwen Temple is located in the eastern part of Quanzhou, Fujian. You can reach the temple by taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses may also be available, though using a taxi is more convenient for direct access. It’s also possible to walk if you're staying nearby, as the temple is situated in a relatively accessible area.
The temple is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when it’s quieter, allowing for a more peaceful experience. Weekdays are generally less crowded compared to weekends and public holidays.
The entrance to Fuwen Temple is free of charge. Donations are welcome at the temple to support its maintenance and activities, but no official ticket purchase is required for entry.
No tickets are required, and there is no need to book in advance. Visitors can simply arrive at the temple and explore it without prior arrangements.
You can explore Fuwen Temple in approximately 1-2 hours, depending on your level of interest in the architecture, history, and surrounding gardens. If you wish to attend a ceremony or participate in a meditation session, it may take longer.
Currently, there are no official guided tours or audio guides available at Fuwen Temple. However, some local guides may be available for hire. It’s recommended to check with the temple administration on-site for any available tour services.
The best photography spots in Fuwen Temple include the main temple halls, the bell tower, and the pagoda. These areas offer beautiful views of the temple grounds and surrounding landscape, especially when lit by the soft light of early morning or late afternoon.
Start by exploring the main temple halls to appreciate the architecture and historical artifacts. Then, take a stroll through the gardens and courtyards. If you're interested, visit the bell tower and pagoda for panoramic views of the area. End your visit with a moment of reflection in the peaceful surroundings.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Fuwen Temple. The temple is primarily a place of worship and tranquility, and it is best experienced during daylight hours. Special tours or ceremonies may be available, so it’s advisable to inquire with the temple in advance if interested.
Fuwen Temple is generally peaceful, but it can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a more tranquil experience, visit early in the morning or on weekdays, when there are fewer visitors.
Fuwen Temple offers basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no food or drink stalls inside the temple, so it’s recommended to bring your own refreshments or visit nearby restaurants if needed.
Fuwen Temple is accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities. However, some parts of the temple may involve stairs or uneven surfaces. It’s best to check with the temple staff for specific accessibility details, especially for those with mobility challenges.
Cash is typically accepted for donations at the temple, though some nearby vendors may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay. It’s a good idea to carry cash for any donations or purchases at the temple.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside Fuwen Temple, but you can find various dining options in the nearby Quanzhou area. Local eateries serve traditional Fujian cuisine, including noodle dishes and dumplings.
Vegetarian food options are common in local restaurants around Fuwen Temple, especially given the temple’s Buddhist association. Halal food options may be available in specific restaurants in Quanzhou, though it’s advisable to check beforehand.
There are several hotels near Fuwen Temple in Quanzhou, ranging from budget accommodations to more upscale options. You can find hotels near the city center or within a short distance from the temple for convenience.
There are no dedicated souvenir shops inside Fuwen Temple, but nearby markets and stores sell items like Buddhist artifacts, prayer beads, and local handicrafts. Typical souvenirs include tea, incense, and religious items.
Taxi or private car is the most convenient option to continue your trip from Fuwen Temple. Public buses are available, though they may take longer to reach your next destination. Alternatively, you can explore other nearby attractions by walking or using a local taxi.
