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Visit the serene temple halls, admire the Buddhist statues, and explore the tranquil surroundings of Guanghua Temple. You can also take part in meditation sessions or attend the temple's religious ceremonies if available. Don’t miss the nearby natural landscapes, perfect for peaceful walks.
Nanshan Guanghua Temple (Fujian Guanghua Temple, Putian Guanghua Temple) is located at the foot of Fenghuang Mountain (also known as Nanshan), three kilometers south of Putian City, Fujian Province. Founded in 558 AD during the second year of the Yongding reign of the Southern Chen Dynasty, Guanghua Temple is a renowned millennium-old temple, considered one of Fujian's four great monasteries, along with Gushan Temple in Fuzhou, Nanputuo Temple in Xiamen, and Kaiyuan Temple in Quanzhou. In 1983, it was designated a National Key Buddhist Temple in Han Chinese Areas by the State Council. In 1986, it was named one of Fujian Province's ten best scenic spots.
In 1990, Guanghua Temple was listed as the first of three national model temples by the Buddhist Association of China. It covers over 32,000 square meters, with a building area of 17,000 square meters. Its central axis stretches 385 meters, encompassing a screen wall, memorial archways, mountain gate, a pond for releasing living creatures, the Hall of Heavenly Kings (Maitreya Hall), the Main Hall, the Dharma Hall (above which houses the Sutra Library), and the Hall of Reclining Buddha (below which houses the Ancestral Hall). The 385-meter-long structure is a striking and imposing sight. The Sakyamuni Pagoda, the forged bell, and the Hall of 500 Arhats are known as the "Three Treasures" of Guanghua Temple. The Main Hall, built on a 2.7-meter-high pedestal, stands 22 meters tall and covers an area of 837 square meters. Its grandeur and majesty make it the most impressive of all the famous temples in Fujian.
Throughout its history, Nanshan Guanghua Temple has been renowned for its authentic Buddhist tradition, earning widespread acclaim from both Buddhists and laypeople both at home and abroad. The temple currently houses the Fujian Buddhist College.
Subtropical monsoon climate; Guanghua Temple is a famous thousand-year-old temple, known as one of the four major monasteries in Fujian along with Gushan Temple in Fuzhou, Nanputuo Temple in Xiamen, and Kaiyuan Temple in Quanzhou. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Main Hall, Hall of Heavenly Kings, and Sakyamuni Pagoda;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
8:00-20:00
Guanghua Temple, a significant Buddhist site in Putian, Fujian, has a long history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The temple holds religious and cultural importance, representing the rich Buddhist heritage in the region. It is a place for meditation, prayers, and spiritual reflection.
Guanghua Temple is located in Putian, Fujian Province. It can be accessed by taxi, bus, or walking from the nearby city center. For those coming from outside Putian, taking a taxi or bus from the main bus station is the most convenient option.
The temple is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid the crowds and to enjoy a quiet, peaceful experience.
The entrance fee is minimal, and tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance. There are no online ticketing options for general visits.
No, there is no need to book tickets in advance for regular visits. However, for special events or group visits, it’s recommended to book at least 1-2 days in advance.
It takes about 1-1.5 hours to explore the main temple areas, including the halls, courtyards, and surrounding gardens. If you plan to participate in religious activities, it may take a bit longer.
The main highlights include the grand hall with Buddha statues, the peaceful courtyards, and the temple's scenic surroundings. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and its religious significance make it a must-visit.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's advisable to arrange in advance if needed. Audio guides are not typically available.
Great photography spots include the temple's main hall, the tranquil courtyards with lush greenery, and the surrounding hills. The architecture and natural beauty make it a perfect location for photography.
Start by entering the temple through the main gate, explore the main hall with its Buddha statues, and then walk through the peaceful courtyards. Finish your visit with a relaxing walk in the temple’s garden or surroundings.
There are no night visits or light shows at Guanghua Temple. Special tours are not commonly available, but private tours can be arranged in advance if requested.
The temple is generally less crowded, but weekends and public holidays can be busier. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
There are basic facilities including clean restrooms, water stations, and seating areas for rest. There are no major food outlets inside the temple, but you can find small local food vendors nearby. Souvenir shops are also available outside the temple grounds.
Guanghua Temple is mostly accessible, with smooth paths leading to the main areas. Some sections may have uneven terrain, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is recommended to check in advance if special accommodations are needed.
Cash is accepted for donations and small purchases. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in the area, and most transactions can be done via these methods.
While there are no restaurants inside the temple, you can find local eateries around the area offering traditional Chinese meals, especially near the temple entrance and in the nearby town center.
Vegetarian options are available in many local restaurants near the temple, especially those offering Buddhist-inspired meals. Halal food options are more readily found in the city center.
There are several accommodations near Guanghua Temple, ranging from budget to mid-range hotels. Staying in central Putian will give you easy access to the temple and other local attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Putian East Lake and the Mazu Temple in Meizhou Island. These sites are part of the local heritage and can be easily visited in a day trip.
There are a few souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist statues, incense, traditional crafts, and other spiritual items. You can also find local handicrafts and snacks from the region.
After visiting, taxis, buses, or private transport are the best options for continuing your trip. The city center offers easy access to public transportation, including buses and taxis to other attractions or areas of interest.
