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Visit the Bronze Buddha Temple to admire the magnificent bronze Buddha statue, explore the peaceful temple grounds, and learn about the spiritual significance of this Buddhist site. It's also a great place for quiet reflection or meditation.
Originally named Baiyuan Temple, the exact date of its construction is unclear. In 1619, the 47th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty, the lay Buddhist Yang Xixuan donated land, and Quanzhou Governor Yang Yinxi allocated substantial funds for expansion, expanding the temple to encompass 4.3 mu (approximately 1.5 acres). Fifteen five-foot-tall bronze Buddha statues were also cast, and the temple's name was subsequently changed to Tongfo Temple.
The Bronze Buddha Temple is located on the banks of the Baiyuan River in the heart of Quanzhou, Fujian Province. Green banyan trees shade the temple, and the water shimmers. To the east lies the Workers' Cultural Palace, and to the west, ancient buildings such as the Quanzhou Confucian Temple and Minglun Hall are adjacent. In 1962, the temple was designated as a first-batch municipal cultural relic protection site. Originally named "Baiyuan Nunnery," the exact date of its construction is unclear. In 1619, the 47th year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1619), lay Buddhist Yang Xixuan donated land, and Quanzhou prefect Yang Yinxi allocated substantial funds for expansion, encompassing an area of 4.3 mu. Fifteen five-foot-tall bronze Buddhas were also cast, and the temple's name was changed to "Bronze Buddha Temple."
In the 17th year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign (1752), Shi Guobao and others renovated the temple. Over the centuries, the temple suffered repeated damage due to floods, political unrest, and wars. However, many individuals pledged their support to rebuild it, including Zhicun of the Qing Dynasty and Venerable Xingyuan, Jueche, and Jueyuan of the Republic of China. They also hosted the Juehua Buddhist Academy and the Buddhist Free Clinic and Pharmacy.
With its subtropical monsoon climate, the temple has become increasingly popular in recent years, with a constant stream of tourists and believers coming here to visit and worship. The first and fifteenth day of every lunar month is the "Circumambulation Day", when pilgrims from all over the country gather in the temple. The sound of Buddhist chants is endless and the sounds of bells and drums resonate through the sky. It is a good place to travel in all seasons.
Numerous precious cultural relics remain, including fifteen bronze Buddha statues, cast between the 12th and 16th years of the Shunzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty. These majestic statues, with flowing lines and lifelike features, are also impressive. The renowned master, Master Hongyi, resided at the temple in the 1930s and 1940s, and his handwritten plaques and couplets still remain.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Open all day
The Bronze Buddha Temple is renowned for its impressive bronze Buddha statue, which is one of the largest in the region. The temple holds historical and cultural significance as a center of Buddhism in the area and continues to be a place of worship and pilgrimage for many Buddhist followers.
The Bronze Buddha Temple is located in the Quanzhou district of Fujian Province. Visitors can take a taxi or public bus from Quanzhou city center. Walking is an option for those staying nearby, though a taxi or bus is more convenient for most.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee is around 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the temple’s entrance. There may be discounts for students or senior citizens. It's advisable to check for any special promotions online before visiting.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless visiting during a major holiday or peak tourist season. You can purchase tickets on-site.
You will need around 1 to 2 hours to explore the temple, admire the Buddha statue, walk around the temple grounds, and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
The must-see highlights include the Bronze Buddha statue, the serene courtyard, the prayer halls, and the temple’s intricate carvings and artwork. The temple’s peaceful ambiance adds to the experience.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available for rent in both Mandarin and English. It's best to ask at the entrance for availability.
The best photography spots are near the large Bronze Buddha statue and the peaceful courtyards surrounding it. The temple’s architecture and scenic views also provide great photo opportunities.
Start at the main entrance, head towards the Bronze Buddha statue, then explore the surrounding courtyards and prayer halls. End your visit by walking around the temple’s peaceful gardens.
Currently, there are no special night visits or light shows at the temple. However, visiting the temple during the evening hours for a quieter experience is highly recommended.
The temple can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Facilities include toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling Buddhist-related items and souvenirs. There are also places to buy water and snacks, though there are no large dining facilities within the temple grounds.
The temple is generally accessible, but some areas with stairs may pose a challenge for elderly or disabled visitors. The main courtyard and the area around the Bronze Buddha statue are wheelchair accessible.
Cash and mobile payment options (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at the entrance and in the small shops. Credit cards may not be accepted at all points of purchase.
There are a few small local restaurants near the temple offering traditional Fujianese dishes. For more dining options, you can visit downtown Quanzhou, which has a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants, especially those serving traditional Buddhist cuisine. Halal food options may be limited in the immediate area but can be found in downtown Quanzhou.
There are several hotels near the temple, including budget options and mid-range accommodations. For more luxurious stays, you can opt for hotels in downtown Quanzhou, which is a short drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Qingjing Mosque, Kaiyuan Temple, and the ancient city of Quanzhou. These sites are easy to visit on the same day, offering a rich cultural experience of the region.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around the temple selling Buddhist-related items such as statues, incense, and prayer beads. Other popular souvenirs include local handicrafts and traditional Fujian tea sets.
After visiting the Bronze Buddha Temple, taxis and public buses are the best options to continue your trip. For visitors staying in Quanzhou, taxis can take you to other attractions in the city or to transportation hubs like Quanzhou Railway Station.
