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At the Xianyou Longhua Temple, visitors can explore the ancient Buddhist architecture, admire the serene atmosphere, and take part in meditation or prayer. The temple's tranquil environment makes it ideal for reflection, and you can also enjoy walking around the scenic temple grounds.
Longhua Temple is located west of the Longhua Town Government in Xianyou County, Putian City. Situated on the banks of the Sanjiao Highway and adjacent to the Longhua market town, it is a hive of merchants and a vibrant, mixed crowd. In this thriving landscape of fame and fortune, Longhua Temple has carved out a pure haven for meditation and enlightenment, serving as a temple for enlightenment and a sacred place for monks to cultivate their spiritual well-being. The Longhua Twin Pagodas within the temple are listed as a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Site.
Longhua Temple was first built in 687 AD during the Tang Dynasty. It was renamed "Longhua Wanshou Zen Temple" in 847 AD during the early years of Emperor Xuanzong's Dazhong reign. During the Tiansheng reign of the Song Dynasty, Emperor Renzong summoned the monk Xuejing from Longhua Temple to Beijing to preach. Upon his return, he expanded the temple's architecture. From the Shaoxing reign of the Song Dynasty to the Zhishun reign of the Yuan Dynasty, Longhua Temple underwent several destructions and reconstructions. By the Yuanzhen reign of the Yuan Dynasty, it had become the largest monastery in Xianyou County, encompassing 11 courtyards and 77 nunneries. At the time, there were approximately 1,000 monks and nuns in the county, and Longhua Temple alone boasted nearly 500. From the late Yuan Dynasty to the Ming and Qing dynasties, Longhua Temple experienced four periods of destruction and redevelopment. In particular, in the 43rd year of the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty, Japanese pirates invaded, destroying the temple and dispersing the monks, leaving it in a desolate state.
It was rebuilt during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty and the Shunzhi and Kangxi periods of the Qing Dynasty. By the end of the Republic of China, Longhua Temple was abandoned several times.
From the late 1880s to the early 1990s (1988-1992), overseas Chinese monk Shi Guangjing donated 550,000 yuan to rebuild Longhua Temple. Now it has been completely renovated and has become the headquarters of the Xianyou County Buddhist Association.
Subtropical monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.
It is recommended to visit Longhua Temple and Longhua Twin Pagodas;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
07:00-18:00
Xianyou Longhua Temple, dating back over a thousand years, is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Fujian. It is dedicated to the practice of Buddhism and holds religious importance for local devotees and visitors. The temple features traditional architecture and is an important pilgrimage site.
The Xianyou Longhua Temple is located in Xianyou County, Putian, Fujian. It is best reached by taxi or private vehicle, though buses also service the area from nearby towns. Public transportation options may require some walking once you reach the nearest stop.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, particularly on weekdays when the temple is less crowded.
Entry to Xianyou Longhua Temple is free. Donations are welcome to support the temple's upkeep and Buddhist practices. No tickets are required for entry, and visitors can offer donations at various locations within the temple.
There is no need to book tickets in advance as the temple does not charge an entrance fee. Simply visit during its opening hours.
A visit to the temple typically takes about 1-2 hours. This allows time to explore the main halls, gardens, and the surrounding area, as well as participate in any prayer or meditation activities.
The must-see highlights include the main prayer hall, the ancient Buddhist statues, and the serene garden area. The temple's architecture and peaceful surroundings are also worth exploring.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may also be provided. Foreign language tours or audio guides may be limited, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
The best photography spots include the temple’s main entrance, the prayer hall, and the peaceful garden areas. The surrounding hills also offer scenic views of the temple complex and surrounding landscape.
Start at the main entrance, explore the central prayer hall, visit the smaller chapels, and then walk around the garden and outdoor areas. Take time to reflect in the peaceful environment before heading to the exit.
The temple does not currently offer night visits or light shows. However, the temple’s peaceful ambiance makes it a great place to visit during daylight hours.
The temple can become crowded during weekends or public holidays, especially during religious festivals. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon.
The temple has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no food vendors on-site, but you can find some small shops selling souvenirs and religious items near the temple’s entrance.
The temple’s grounds are fairly accessible for elderly visitors and children, but there are some uneven paths and stairs. Disabled access may be limited, especially in the temple's more traditional areas.
Cash is accepted for donations and purchases inside the temple. Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay are likely accepted, but credit cards may not be as widely accepted.
There are a few local restaurants nearby offering traditional Fujianese cuisine, including noodle dishes, dumplings, and tea. It’s best to explore the local eateries outside the temple for a more authentic experience.
Vegetarian food options are available at nearby restaurants. However, halal food may be limited in the area, as the region predominantly serves Chinese cuisine.
There are several hotels near the Xianyou Longhua Temple, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Visitors can choose accommodations in Putian city for easier access to other attractions in the region.
Nearby attractions include the Putian Nanri Island and the East Lake. These places are accessible and offer a chance to explore the natural beauty and history of Fujian Province.
There are souvenir shops near the temple selling religious items, such as incense, prayer beads, and Buddhist statues. Traditional Fujianese handicrafts can also be found in nearby markets.
Public buses and taxis are the most convenient ways to continue your trip after visiting the temple. If you plan to explore further in Fujian, renting a car may also be a good option for more flexibility.
