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Qixia Temple, located on Qixia Mountain northeast of Nanjing, is one of China's Four Great Temples and the birthplace of the Three Treatises School of Jiangnan Buddhism. Not only is its grand scale and magnificent halls a prime scenic spot in Nanjing, but it is also renowned for its important role in the history of Chinese Buddhism.
The Qixia Temple Relic Pagoda has a compact overall structure and gorgeous carvings. It is octagonal, has five eaves, and is 15 meters high. It is an important experimental unit for studying Southern Tang architecture, a masterpiece of Chinese Buddhist pagoda art, and a very rare dense-eaves pagoda in the south.
The weather is suitable for all seasons, but autumn is the best, especially in late autumn when Qixia is in full bloom. The maple forests are like fire and the mountains are covered with red, just like a beautiful painting. It is said that "Niu Shou in spring and Qixia in autumn"
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
25 yuan/person
7:00-17:00
Qixia Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Nanjing, Jiangsu, founded during the Liang Dynasty (502–557). It is known for its architecture, thousands of Buddha statues, and scenic location on Qixia Mountain. It holds cultural and religious significance in Chinese Buddhist history.
Located in Qixia District, Nanjing. Visitors can take Metro Line 2 to Qixia Temple Station and then a short bus or taxi ride. Taxis or rideshare services provide direct access from the city center.
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Autumn is the best time to visit due to the vibrant foliage on Qixia Mountain. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds.
The entrance fee is around 30 CNY for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via official platforms or travel apps.
Advance booking is not required, but during peak seasons (autumn), booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended to avoid long queues.
2–3 hours to explore the temple complex, scenic mountain trails, and pagodas at a relaxed pace.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. English tours are limited and usually require prior arrangement through travel agencies or online booking platforms.
Start at the entrance, visit the main halls, climb to the Thousand Buddha Pagoda, walk along the mountain trails, enjoy scenic spots and return via the same or alternative trails for a circular route.
Night visits are not generally allowed. Special guided tours may be arranged during festivals or cultural events with prior booking.
Weekdays are less crowded. Early mornings and off-peak seasons such as spring and late autumn are ideal for a peaceful visit.
Facilities include public toilets, resting areas, small snack shops, and souvenir stands near the entrance.
Some paths are steep or involve steps. Elderly and children should exercise caution. Disabled access is limited in mountainous areas, but the main temple halls are accessible.
Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are generally accepted for tickets and shops.
Nearby restaurants serve local Nanjing cuisine, snacks, and vegetarian options. Small tea houses are available around the temple area.
Vegetarian options are widely available due to the temple’s Buddhist influence. Halal options are limited in the area.
Hotels range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels in Qixia District and nearby Nanjing city center.
Souvenir shops sell Buddha figurines, calligraphy, postcards, and small temple-themed crafts.
Taxis, rideshare apps, and local buses connect Qixia Temple to other Nanjing attractions and the city center.
