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At the Nine Temples in Putian, visitors can explore the historical and spiritual significance of each temple, enjoy the serene surroundings, and participate in Buddhist rituals. The temples are also a great spot for photography and reflection in the peaceful atmosphere.
Jiuzuo Temple (formerly known as Taipingyuan) is located in Fengding Village, Fengshan Township, approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Xianyou County, Fujian Province. Construction began in 865 AD, the sixth year of Emperor Yizong's Xiantong reign during the Tang Dynasty, at the initiative of Zen Master Zhengjue (dharma name Zhiguang). With a history spanning over 1,100 years, the temple boasts nine interconnected courtyards and a magnificent scale, covering an area of 15,000 square meters. At its peak, it boasted a congregation of over 500 monks, making it the largest Zen temple in Xianyou during the Tang Dynasty. It is said that Cai Xiang, a scholar of the Duanming Hall during the Song Dynasty, visited the temple to admire the scenery and personally inscribed the three characters "Taipingyuan." Song Dynasty luminaries Yu Xiang and Liu Houcun also visited the temple and wrote poems there. In the sixth year of the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty, the temple was destroyed by fire. In the twelfth year of the Wanli reign, the monk Yikong restored the main hall.
The Nine Temples are located on the beautiful Nine Mountains, with rugged rocks and numerous caves, such as the Stone Fish Group, Giant Eagle, Wooden Fish Stone, Bodhidharma Rock, Giant Elephant, Desert Boat, Stunning Scene, Nuwa Mending the Sky, The Tortoise and the Hare, and the Golden Snake Entering the Cave.
Key cultural relics include a Tang Dynasty stone wall, 2 meters wide at the base and approximately 80 meters long. The Patriarch's Hall is Tang Dynasty style, while the Main Hall and the Great Compassion Hall are Ming and Qing Dynasty styles. These three halls were renovated in 1986 by the Indonesian Chinese monk Dinghai. A pair of spindle-shaped stone pillars still remain at the ruins of the Dragon King Temple northwest of the temple, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty. Also found are the Haihui Pagoda, the Yuan'an Chan Master Pagoda, the 28th Yutang Monk Pagoda, a Song Dynasty bridge, a large bell, and a stone tablet containing "Records of Nine Temples and Mountains."
Subtropical monsoon climate; Jiuzuo Temple is located at the southern foot of Fengshan Mountain in Fengshan Township, which is at a high altitude in the northwest of Xianyou County. The temple is backed by mountains and faces water, surrounded by green mountains and nine peaks. The two mountains behind the temple are like the habitat of two phoenixes. The clear water of Jiuxi River flows in front of the temple, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Main Hall, Patriarch Hall, Freeing Life Pond, and Dust-Free Pagoda;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
8:30-17:00
The Nine Temples in Putian are a group of ancient Buddhist temples, each with its unique history. The temples hold significant religious and cultural value for locals and Buddhist pilgrims, representing centuries of devotion and tradition. They are dedicated to various deities and saints within Buddhism.
The Nine Temples are located in Putian, Fujian Province, China. The best way to reach the temples is by taxi or private vehicle, as they are spread across a large area. There may be bus services available, but it is advisable to use a car for convenience and flexibility.
The Nine Temples are generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays, to avoid crowds. Visiting during Buddhist festivals can also offer a deeper cultural experience.
There is no standardized entrance fee for all the Nine Temples, as some may be free while others request donations. Tickets for individual temples can be purchased onsite, and donations are welcome in support of the temple’s upkeep.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary. However, for special events or festivals, it is a good idea to check if any pre-booking is required.
Exploring the Nine Temples may take 2-4 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at each site. If you wish to explore all the temples in detail, a full day may be required.
Each of the Nine Temples has unique architectural features and artifacts. The must-see highlights include the main prayer halls, ancient statues, and serene courtyards. Some temples also feature beautiful gardens and scenic views.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some temples may offer audio guides in other languages, but English language services may be limited. It is advisable to check availability in advance.
The best photography spots are the grand prayer halls, the temples' courtyards, and the scenic mountain views surrounding the temples. The detailed architecture and serene environment also make for excellent photo opportunities.
Start by visiting the largest and most significant temple, then explore the smaller temples one by one. It is best to follow a path that takes you through the various courtyards and gardens to fully appreciate the temples’ surroundings.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at the Nine Temples, as the temples are generally open during the day. However, visiting during a festival can offer unique cultural experiences and special activities.
The temples can be crowded on weekends, public holidays, or during religious festivals. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, particularly in the early morning hours.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available at the Nine Temples. There are small shops near the temples selling religious items and souvenirs. However, food and water options may be limited on the temple grounds, so it’s best to bring your own supplies.
While the Nine Temples are generally accessible for children and elderly visitors, the terrain can be uneven, and some temples require walking uphill or on stairs. Visitors with mobility issues may find some areas challenging.
Cash is accepted for donations and purchases, but mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly available at most temples. Credit card usage may be limited.
There are a few local restaurants near the Nine Temples offering traditional Fujianese cuisine, including noodle dishes, seafood, and tea. Some small cafes may also be available in the area.
Vegetarian food options are widely available, as many visitors to Buddhist temples prefer plant-based meals. Halal food options may be more limited, depending on the location.
There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Putian city, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Staying in the city allows easy access to the Nine Temples as well as other attractions in the area.
Nearby attractions include Putian Nanri Island, the East Lake, and the Mazu Temple. These sites are within easy reach and can be explored in a day trip after visiting the Nine Temples.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the Nine Temples, offering religious artifacts such as incense, prayer beads, and statues of Buddhist figures. Traditional Fujianese handicrafts are also popular souvenirs.
Taxi or local buses are the most convenient transportation options after visiting the Nine Temples. For further travel within Fujian, renting a car or using long-distance buses can provide flexibility for exploring nearby areas.
