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Puhua Lecture Temple is located on the top of Fashan Mountain in Heilong Town, 24 kilometers south of Tanghe County, Nanyang City. It is a Buddhist temple built in the Yuan Dynasty. Legend has it that at the end of the Yuan Dynasty, Emperor Shundi dreamed of a white jade shining at night. He sent an envoy to the top of the mountain, where a huge jade shone for three days and nights, which was consistent with the emperor's dream. The emperor issued an edict to name the mountain Baiyu Mountain, built Baiyu Zen Temple on the top of the mountain, and appointed Master Miaoxuan, the junior brother of Master Miaowu, the abbot of Shaolin Temple, as the abbot of Baiyu Temple. Zhu Yunwen, the second emperor of the Ming Dynasty, once took refuge in this mountain and became a monk. Because his hair was buried here, the mountain is also called Fashan. Later, Baiyu Zen Temple
The temple was renamed Puhua Zen Temple. According to legend, the famous line "After reading the Lengyan Sutra, I feel too lazy to strike the chimes; I smile as I watch the yellow house send me a gourd. To the south, I see thousands of layers of mountains and ridges; to the north, I see the Heavenly Gate thousands of miles away. I have long forgotten the flying phoenix chariot, and my cassock has been exchanged for a dragon robe. I wonder where the officials are now, only the birds come to visit me morning and evening." was written after he became a monk, and it is still widely circulated here today.
During the Ming and Qing dynasties and the Republic of China, the temple was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. In 1940, it was renamed Puhua Lecture Temple. During the Cultural Revolution, the temple was destroyed and reduced to ruins. In October 1992, the local government approved its reconstruction. Venerable Zhen Kuo (Dharma name Zhixin, pseudonym Zhen Kuo, courtesy name Ci Xiu) presided over the temple. He built the Main Hall, Pilu Hall, Water and Land Hall, Jade Buddha Tower, and dozens of adjacent rooms. Venerable Zhen Kuo passed away in February 2000. Venerable Ru Zhen took over as abbot.
Since becoming abbot, Venerable Ruzhen has worked tirelessly to fulfill his master's wishes, personally leading the monks in moving bricks and tiles, carrying sand and laying stones. He subsequently built the pagoda courtyard, the lower courtyard "Zhixin Nunnery," the central courtyard "Jieying Pavilion," the Buddha Hall, the Heavenly King Hall, the Guanyin Hall, the guest hall, the bell and drum tower, and dozens of dormitories.
The temperate monsoon climate has four distinct seasons, making it suitable for travel and worshipping Buddha in all seasons.
After renovations in 2001, Puhua Jiang Temple now boasts a building area of approximately 20 mu (approximately 16 acres), over 150 rooms, five-story halls, and four monasteries. The ancient temple has regained its former glory. The temple's mission is to promote Mahayana Buddhism, elevate morality, perfect character, practice the Bodhisattva path, and benefit all living beings. Its motto is "Avoid all evil, universally practice, believe in and recite the Buddha's name, and seek rebirth in the Pure Land." Guided by the Three Blessings, Six Harmonies, Three Studies, Six Paramitas, and Ten Vows, the temple has been established as a dedicated Pure Land Buddhist center, ideal for leisure, prayer, and worship.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
free
Open all day
Puhua Lecture Temple is a historic Buddhist site in Nanyang, Henan, known for its cultural and religious importance. It has been a center for Buddhist teaching and community gatherings for centuries, reflecting local spiritual traditions.
Entrance is generally free. For special events or guided visits, small fees may apply, payable at the site.
Advance booking is usually not necessary. For group visits or special ceremonies, booking 1–2 days ahead is recommended.
About 1–2 hours to explore the temple grounds and main halls thoroughly.
Guided tours are available in Chinese; English guides may be arranged upon request.
Night visits are not typically available. Special tours may be offered during festivals or cultural events.
The temple is usually quiet. Weekday mornings are the least crowded.
Yes, most areas are accessible, with ramps and flat pathways suitable for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash is commonly accepted; mobile payments may be available for donations or purchases.
Several local restaurants and small cafés are located near the temple serving Henan cuisine and refreshments.
Vegetarian options are typically available; vegan or halal options may be limited nearby.
Hotels and guesthouses are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the temple.
Souvenir shops sell religious items, prayer beads, small statues, and postcards.
