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Visit the Po Lin Monastery to admire its impressive architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful surroundings. You can also explore the temple's gardens, participate in meditation sessions, and learn about Buddhist traditions. Don't miss the famous bronze Buddha statue, which is one of the largest in the world.
Baolian Monastery is located in an alley east of Mingjiao Temple. Formerly Erlang Temple, it was relocated here in 1987 due to urban renewal and renamed Baolian Monastery. The three golden characters "Baolian Monastery" (Baolian Temple) on the main gate were inscribed by Zhao Puchu, former president of the All-China Buddhist Association. A golden statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva is enshrined in the Buddhist hall. Following the passing of the former abbot, Master Shenghai, the temple is now in the care of the nun Haolian. In front of Baolian Monastery lies a plaza with a three-story altar modeled after the Circular Mound of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, serving as a backdrop to the Giant Buddha on the opposite hill. In front of the temple stands a three-bay, four-pillar, three-story stone archway.
A horizontal plaque inscribed in the center of the archway reads "Po Lin Monastery." Behind the archway, a tree-lined corridor leads to the temple gate, a distinctive structure. Its lower portion rests on a high stone platform, beneath which are three arched doorways. Surrounding the platform are railings, and in its center stand three magnificent halls with single-eaved hip roofs. The temple's architecture is magnificent, featuring the palatial Main Hall and the majestic Heavenly King Hall. The roofs are gleaming with hip roofs, and the temple boasts a Chinese-style Great Buddha Hall and Main Hall, housing three Buddha statues. In front of the Main Hall stands the Skanda Hall, and behind it is a Buddhist tale of the Great Perfection of Enlightenment, inscribed in Thai.
The subtropical monsoon climate is influenced by the monsoon, with four distinct seasons, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to visit Mingjiao Temple, Bao Gong Temple and Bao Gong Tomb in Baohe Park, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dashu Mountain, Sipailou, and Sanxiaokou.
It is recommended to play for 2 hours
free
Open all day
Po Lin Monastery is a prominent Buddhist monastery located on Mount Jiuhua, dedicated to Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva. It was founded in the 18th century and is known for its serene atmosphere, historical importance, and its connection to Chinese Buddhist culture.
Po Lin Monastery is located in Hefei, Anhui province, and can be accessed by taxi or bus. It is situated about 30 minutes from the city center by car. Public transportation options are available for easier access.
Po Lin Monastery is open year-round, typically from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee to Po Lin Monastery is usually free, but donations are welcome. Tickets for special areas or events may be required, and these can be purchased on-site. Check the monastery's official website for details about specific events and their fees.
No advance booking is necessary for general visits to Po Lin Monastery. However, if attending special events or festivals, booking tickets in advance may be recommended.
You can fully explore Po Lin Monastery in approximately 2-3 hours. If you plan to meditate or attend ceremonies, you may want to spend more time at the monastery.
Key highlights include the impressive main hall, the tranquil gardens, the giant Buddha statue, and the surrounding mountain views. The temple's peaceful ambiance and intricate architecture are must-see aspects as well.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides may be provided in English and other languages for international visitors. Check with the monastery's staff upon arrival for availability.
The best viewpoints are from the temple's upper levels, where you can get a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. The Buddha statue itself is also an iconic spot for photography.
Start by visiting the main hall, then explore the gardens and the Buddha statue. If interested, you can visit the meditation areas and learn about Buddhist practices. Finally, take in the views from the upper levels of the monastery.
Night visits are not typically available. However, special tours or events may occur during important Buddhist festivals or holidays. It is advisable to check in advance if you're visiting during these times.
Po Lin Monastery can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The best time to visit is during weekdays, especially in the early morning, when it is less crowded.
The monastery has basic facilities, including public toilets and water fountains. There are also small shops selling Buddhist souvenirs and snacks. Food can be found at nearby restaurants.
Po Lin Monastery is mostly accessible to elderly visitors and children. However, the terrain can be steep, so those with mobility challenges might find it difficult to navigate certain areas. Wheelchair access may be limited in some parts of the monastery.
Cash is accepted for donations and souvenirs, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.
There are a few vegetarian and Buddhist-themed restaurants near the monastery. The area offers local Chinese cuisine, particularly vegetarian dishes. Several cafes are located in nearby areas where you can relax after your visit.
Vegetarian food is widely available, especially in the Buddhist restaurants near the monastery. Vegan options are also common, but halal food may be limited in the immediate vicinity.
There are several hotels near Po Lin Monastery, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious options. Popular choices include hotels in Hefei city center, located a short distance away.
Nearby attractions include Hefei Botanical Garden, the Anhui Provincial Museum, and other temples in Hefei. These can easily be combined for a day trip to explore the city's cultural heritage.
Souvenir shops near the monastery sell Buddhist-related items such as incense, statues, prayer beads, and traditional Chinese crafts. These make popular souvenirs for visitors.
After visiting Po Lin Monastery, taxis and buses are readily available to take you to other parts of Hefei. The Hefei Metro is also an easy way to explore the city further.
