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Visit the main temple to explore its serene environment, admire the ancient architecture, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. You can also participate in local Buddhist rituals or meditate in the peaceful surroundings. The temple offers a great opportunity for cultural and spiritual reflection.
Xuefeng Chongsheng Zen Temple, also known as Chongsheng Temple, is located at the southern foot of Fenghuang Mountain in Xuefeng, northwest of Minhou County, Fuzhou City. Xuefeng Mountain, originally known as Elephant Bone Peak, stretches over 60 miles across Minhou, Luoyuan, Gutian, and Minqing counties, and is 77 kilometers from Fuzhou. Xuefeng Mountain, Gushan Mountain, and Qishan Mountain, together forming a triangular formation, surround Fuzhou and are collectively known as the "Three Wonders" of Fuzhou. Built in the 11th year of the Xiantong reign of the Tang Dynasty (870), most of the existing temples were rebuilt during the reign of Emperor Guangxu. Fuzhou Chongsheng Temple, located approximately 70 kilometers from Fuzhou City, is the birthplace of the Yunmen and Fayan schools of Zen Buddhism. It is one of the Five Mountains and Ten Temples of Jiangnan and is known as the "First Jungle of Jiangnan."
In 1983, Xuefeng Chongsheng Temple was designated a National Key Buddhist Temple in the Han Chinese Region. The main buildings within the temple are the mountain gate, Dharma Hall, Main Hall, and Dining Hall. The Main Hall houses a jade statue of the Three Tathagatas from Myanmar. The Eighteen Arhats, each in a unique and lifelike manner, are depicted. Outside the mountain gate stand four ancient trees. Legend has it that the larger two were planted by Wang Shenzhi, King of Fujian, and Yicun, a Tang Dynasty monk, and are over a thousand years old. The smaller two were planted by monks during the Ming Dynasty, dating back five or six hundred years. The temple houses valuable Indian Sanskrit palm-leaf sutras and statues of the Buddha.
The subtropical monsoon climate is characterized by a noteworthy 24-scenic spot: the Hanging Rock Waterfall, which plunges a hundred feet. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Xuefeng Temple, also known as Chongsheng Temple, and its full name is Xuefeng Chongsheng Zen Temple, is located at the southern foot of Fenghuang Mountain in Xuefeng, northwest of Minhou County. Built in the 11th year of the Tang Xiantong reign (870), most of the existing halls were rebuilt during the Guangxu reign. The main buildings in the temple are the mountain gate, the Dharma Hall, the Main Hall, and the dining hall. The Main Hall houses a jade Buddha statue of the Three Tathagatas from Myanmar. The Eighteen Arhats, each with their own unique postures, are lifelike. Outside the mountain gate are four ancient trees. Legend has it that the two larger ones were planted by Wang Shenzhi, the King of Fujian, and Yicun, a monk from the Tang Dynasty, and have a history of a thousand years; the two smaller ones were planted by monks in the Ming Dynasty and are also five or six hundred years old. The temple houses precious Indian Sanskrit palm leaf scriptures and statues of the Buddha.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
free
Open all day
Xuefeng Temple, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, is an important Buddhist site in Fujian. The temple has a rich history tied to the spread of Buddhism in the region and is known for its traditional architecture and spiritual significance as a place of worship and meditation.
Xuefeng Temple is located in the eastern part of Quanzhou. It is accessible by taxi or bus from the city center, and there are well-marked walking paths leading to the temple from nearby areas.
The temple is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons to experience the temple in peace and avoid crowds. The temple is less crowded during weekdays.
The entrance fee to Xuefeng Temple is typically low, ranging from 10 to 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, with no online booking available.
No, tickets do not need to be booked in advance as the temple is open to the public. Simply purchase a ticket upon arrival.
To explore Xuefeng Temple fully, about 1 to 2 hours is sufficient. This allows time for a peaceful walk through the temple grounds, visiting the main halls, and observing the spiritual practices.
Key highlights include the main temple hall, the beautiful pagoda, and the tranquil courtyards. The statue of Buddha inside the main hall is an important spiritual focal point, and the surrounding gardens offer a peaceful setting for contemplation.
Guided tours are available at the temple, generally in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may also be available for international visitors, though it's advisable to check ahead for availability.
Great photography spots include the temple’s entrance, the pagoda, and the courtyards. The temple’s scenic gardens and peaceful ponds offer stunning backdrops for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Start at the main entrance, exploring the grand halls and pagodas. Take time to sit and relax in the courtyards, then proceed to the peaceful garden areas. Make sure to visit the main Buddha statue and take a moment for quiet reflection.
Night visits are not typically available, and the temple does not feature light shows. Special tours are available, particularly during cultural or religious festivals, but it's best to inquire locally for specific details on such tours.
The temple can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
The temple has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There is a small gift shop selling religious items, and some local snacks may be available in nearby shops outside the temple grounds.
The temple has steps and uneven terrain, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, there are some paths and areas that are more accessible for children and people with limited mobility.
Cash is commonly used, although some places may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay. It's best to carry some cash for small purchases or donations inside the temple.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the temple offering Fujian cuisine, including noodle dishes and vegetarian options. For a more authentic experience, visit the nearby street food vendors.
Vegetarian options are available at some of the local restaurants, particularly around the temple. Halal food may be found in the nearby areas catering to the Muslim community.
There are several mid-range and budget hotels near Xuefeng Temple, offering easy access to the temple and other local attractions in Quanzhou. It's best to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearby attractions include the Quanzhou Maritime Museum, Kaiyuan Temple, and Qingjing Mosque. All these sites are within a short taxi ride and can be easily combined in a day trip.
There are souvenir shops near the temple selling religious items such as incense, statues, and prayer beads. You can also find traditional Fujian handicrafts like pottery and embroidery.
Taxis and buses are readily available from the temple to take you to other parts of Quanzhou. The Quanzhou Railway Station and bus terminals are nearby for those continuing their journey to other cities.
