Puji Temple Scenic Area

Introducing Puji Temple Scenic Area

Puji Temple, also known as the Front Temple, is the oldest temple in Putuo Mountain and also the largest temple in Putuo Mountain. All major Buddhist activities are held here.

The temple is built on a relatively wide, flat area on the mountain. The pond in front of the temple is fed by a mountain spring and is filled with lotus pods. In summer, the fragrance of lotus fills the air.

This is what the Lotus Pond at Night Moon, one of the Twelve Scenic Spots of Putuo Temple, is talking about. It is worth mentioning that there is a stone pagoda next to Puji Temple - Duobao Pagoda, which is the oldest building in Puji Temple (built in the Yuan Dynasty). Although it cannot be viewed up close because of the courtyard wall, it is one of the three treasures of Putuo Temple.

Climate and best time to travel

The 19th day of the second lunar month is the birthday of Guanyin Bodhisattva, the 19th day of the sixth lunar month is the day of Bodhisattva's enlightenment, and the 19th day of the ninth lunar month is the day of Bodhisattva's nirvana. People go to the island to worship, and there will be temple fairs at that time, which makes it more lively.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1-2 hours

Tickets

5 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

Lunch time: 10:30-11:30; Dinner time: 16:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Puji Temple Scenic Area

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Puji Temple, located on Putuo Mountain in Zhoushan, Zhejiang, is one of the most important Buddhist temples in China. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, it is a major pilgrimage site and part of the Putuo Mountain scenic area, which is famous for its religious, cultural, and natural significance.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located on Putuo Mountain, Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province.
• Accessible by bus or taxi from Zhoushan city center or Putuoshan ferry terminal.
• Visitors often take a short cable car ride up the mountain and then walk to the temple.
• Walking paths are available to explore the temple complex and nearby scenic spots.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the mountain scenery is beautiful.
• Mornings are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy serene temple views.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Entrance to Puji Temple is included in the Putuo Mountain scenic area ticket, approximately 100–150 CNY per person.
• Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket counters near the mountain entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended during weekends, holidays, and peak tourist seasons, ideally 1–3 days prior. On regular weekdays, tickets can usually be bought on-site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• 2–3 hours to explore the temple complex thoroughly.
• Half a day if including nearby trails, smaller temples, and scenic spots on Putuo Mountain.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main Hall (Daxiong Baodian) with large Buddha statues.
• Puji Temple Pagoda and its intricate carvings.
• Surrounding halls, smaller shrines, and monks’ living quarters.
• Views overlooking the coastline and nearby islands from temple terraces.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

• Guided tours are available in Mandarin; some agencies may provide English-speaking guides on request.
• Audio guides are limited and usually in Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the temple terraces overlooking the sea and Zhoushan islands.
• Main Hall and Pagoda interiors for detailed architectural photography.
• Walking paths along the mountainside for panoramic shots of Puji Temple and surrounding nature.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start from the ticket entrance, take the cable car to the main area, visit the Main Hall, explore surrounding halls and pagodas, walk the scenic paths, and finish with views from terraces overlooking the coastline.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Night visits are generally not allowed; the temple closes by 5:30 PM.
• Special religious ceremonies and seasonal Buddhist events may be available during festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• It can be crowded during weekends, public holidays, and Buddhist festivals.
• Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times to visit.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public toilets and rest areas are available throughout the scenic area.
• Small restaurants, snack shops, and tea houses near the temple provide refreshments.
• Gift shops sell religious items, souvenirs, and local products.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

• Main paths are suitable for elderly and children, though some steps may be steep.
• Cable cars improve accessibility, but some areas with stairs may be challenging for wheelchair users.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Most facilities accept mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and bank cards.
• Having some cash is recommended for small vendors or donations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Tea houses and small restaurants within the scenic area serving vegetarian and local seafood dishes.
• Restaurants near Putuoshan ferry terminal and Zhoushan city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in temple restaurants.
• Halal options are limited and may require checking with local restaurants in Zhoushan city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and boutique hotels near Putuo Mountain base.
• Hotels in Shenjiamen town or Zhoushan city, 20–30 minutes away by taxi.
• Scenic-view lodgings on the mountain provide a more immersive experience.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Fayu Temple and Huiji Temple on Putuo Mountain.
• Zhujiajian Island beaches.
• Shenjiamen fishing port and seafood market.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Buddhist statues, prayer beads, incense, and religious books.
• Local handicrafts, postcards, and Putuo Mountain specialty teas.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or ride-hailing services to nearby islands or Zhoushan city.
• Ferry services to other islands within the Zhoushan Archipelago.
• Bus connections to Ningbo or Hangzhou for onward travel.