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Fanguang Temple, comprised of Shangfang Guang Temple, Zhongfang Guang Temple, and Xiafang Guang Temple, is a renowned Tiantai sect temple. One of the "Four Wonders of Mount Nanyue," the "Quiet Fanguang Temple" is situated atop the central stamen of Lotus Peak on Mount Hengshan. Surrounding the temple are various rare and exotic trees, including a six-foot-long, over ten-meter-tall Sal tree. Legend has it that such trees can only be found in the Moon Palace. Later, immortals sent the tree's seeds to the human world for planting, and this tree is now found on Earth. Beneath the tree, a spring, named Sala Spring, is located. Deng Fulun, a Qing Dynasty poet, wrote in his poem "Sala Spring": "Awakening from sweet dew one night, the bright moon hangs in the sky. Above is the Bodhi tree, below is Sala Spring."
Suitable for all seasons;
It has a subtropical monsoon humid climate with distinct four seasons, hot and rainy summers and warm and humid winters.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
Nearby attractions: Tiantai Mountain Paragliding Club, Luoxi Fishing Boat, Shiliang Waterfall, Shiliang Scenic Area, etc.
free
Open all day
Fangguang Temple, located in Hunan Province, is a historic Buddhist temple with a long history dating back centuries. It is renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture and cultural relics, representing traditional Chinese Buddhist art and serving as an important site for religious worship and heritage preservation.
The temple is located in Hunan Province, China. Visitors can reach it by taxi or local bus from nearby towns or cities. Walking is possible only if staying close by, but most tourists use private cars or organized tours for easier access.
Fangguang Temple is typically open from morning to late afternoon. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding scenery is at its most beautiful.
Entrance fees are modest and can be purchased at the temple. Online ticketing may not be widely available; most visitors buy tickets on-site.
Advance booking is usually not necessary for general visits. For group tours or special religious events, booking a few days ahead is recommended.
1–2 hours is sufficient to explore the main halls, gardens, and surroundings of the temple.
Guided tours are sometimes available in Chinese; foreign language guides may be limited and usually require special arrangements.
Start at the main entrance, visit the central halls, proceed to side shrines and pagodas, and finish with a walk around the gardens and surrounding scenic areas.
Night visits are generally not permitted. Special religious ceremonies may occur, but there are no regular light shows.
The temple is moderately visited. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.
Basic facilities include restrooms, benches, and a small shop selling religious items. Food options are limited nearby.
Most areas are accessible, but there may be steps and slopes. Elderly and children should take care, and wheelchair access may be limited.
Cash is accepted; mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay may also be available for ticketing and small purchases.
Small local eateries and tea houses are located near the temple offering Hunan cuisine and snacks.
Vegetarian options are generally available, reflecting the temple’s Buddhist culture.
Guesthouses and small hotels are available in nearby towns. Many visitors stay in larger cities in Hunan and travel to the temple for a day trip.
Souvenirs include Buddhist charms, incense, prayer beads, and small traditional crafts.
Taxis or local buses are convenient for returning to nearby towns or heading to other Hengshan attractions.
