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At the Sakyamuni Pagoda, visitors can explore the ancient structure, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and appreciate the intricate carvings and architecture. It’s a perfect spot for photography and relaxation, with a focus on Buddhist culture and history.
The Shakyamuni Buddha Pagoda is located east of Guanghua Temple in Chengxiang District, Putian City, Fujian Province. Built in the first year of the Qiandao reign of the Southern Song Dynasty (1165), it stands approximately 30 meters tall, a five-story octagonal stone structure. Its imitation wooden pavilion-style architecture boasts an exquisite, simple, and solemn appearance. A relief carving of Guanyin Bodhisattva is located between the waist of the Sumeru pedestal. Each floor features thin, long eaves, creating a light and beautiful appearance. Beneath the eaves, two layers of stepped corbels are carved with reliefs of phoenixes, two-headed winged figures, flying fairies, and exotic flowers and plants. The interior of the pagoda is a spacious and bright octagonal hollow chamber.
The first floor of the Sakya Pagoda has doors on the east and west sides, and the rest of the floor houses Buddha statues. From the second to the fifth floors, doors are opened on all four sides and house Buddha statues. Each floor features thin, long eaves, creating a light and beautiful appearance. The pagoda is richly carved, with reliefs of Zhuru, Arhats, Vajra Warriors, Guanyin Bodhisattva, flying immortals, phoenixes, lions, and various other floral images, including peonies and lotus flowers, carved with exquisite craftsmanship and vivid imagery. Currently, some Buddha statues in the outer corridor wall boxes are missing, and some Buddha statues in the wall boxes above the second floor are incomplete. The relief Buddha statues on the ground floor have been damaged, and cracks have appeared on the feather corners above the second floor. The granite surface has partially peeled off. The Sakya Pagoda was designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site in 1988.
This tower has stood for more than 800 years and has withstood the test of an earthquake of magnitude 8 or above that occurred in Putian. It has superb construction technology, fine carvings and vivid shapes. It is a precious physical material for studying ancient architecture, stone carving art and Song Dynasty culture. It was announced as a national key cultural relic protection unit in January 1988.
The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for all seasons.
Sakyamuni Pagoda.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Open all day
The Sakyamuni Pagoda, located in Putian, Fujian, is an important Buddhist site. It is believed to have been built during the Tang Dynasty and is dedicated to the Sakyamuni Buddha. The pagoda holds historical and cultural significance as a place of worship and meditation, reflecting Buddhist architectural styles of ancient China.
The pagoda is located in Putian, Fujian. It can be accessed by taxi or public bus from the city center. There are also local buses that can take you close to the site, and walking is feasible if you're staying nearby.
The Sakyamuni Pagoda is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner.
The entrance fee is typically around ¥10-¥20. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There is currently no online ticketing system for regular visits.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for regular visits. However, if you are planning to visit during peak tourist seasons or for special events, it may be advisable to check for ticket availability ahead of time.
A visit to the Sakyamuni Pagoda typically takes 1-1.5 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the pagoda itself and the surrounding area.
The must-see highlights are the pagoda’s architectural features, including its intricate carvings and Buddha statues. The surrounding garden area is also peaceful and ideal for reflection and photography.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin.
The best photography spots include the pagoda itself, with its towering structure and ornate details. The surrounding landscape, with its trees and peaceful environment, also offers excellent opportunities for nature shots.
It is recommended to start by exploring the ground level of the pagoda, then gradually ascend to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Take time to appreciate the Buddhist sculptures and carvings along the way.
Night visits are not available, and there are no regular light shows or special tours. However, there may be occasional events or ceremonies during festivals, which can provide a unique cultural experience.
The pagoda can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The best times to visit are weekday mornings, especially during the off-season when there are fewer tourists.
Basic facilities such as toilets and resting areas are available. There are small kiosks selling snacks and bottled water, but there are no large food outlets or shops inside the pagoda grounds.
The attraction is somewhat accessible, but elderly and disabled visitors may find it challenging to climb to the top of the pagoda. The surrounding grounds are flat and can be navigated easily.
Both cash and mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at the site for tickets and purchases. Credit cards are generally not accepted.
There are a few local restaurants around the pagoda serving traditional Fujianese dishes. For more dining options, visitors can head to Putian city center.
Vegetarian food options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food options are limited but may be found in the broader Putian area.
There are several hotels near the pagoda, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels. More options are available in the city center of Putian.
Nearby attractions include the Putian Ancient City, Guanyin Mountain, and the Putian Museum. These can be easily combined for a day trip to the region.
Souvenir shops around the pagoda sell traditional Buddhist items like incense, small statues of Buddha, and local handicrafts. For more extensive shopping, visitors can explore Putian city.
Visitors can take taxis or buses to nearby attractions or return to the city center. For longer journeys, buses and trains are available from Putian to other destinations in Fujian.
