Meilin Buddhist Temple Guangxiao Temple

The small southern city of Putian has many hidden temples, and Meifeng Guangxiao Temple is one of them. It is not only one of the four major Buddhist monasteries in Putian, but also one of the birthplaces of Buddhism in Fujian.
Originally built in the Song Dynasty, Guangxiao Temple is located on Meizigang, Meifeng Mountain, which is full of plum blossoms, so it is also called Meifeng Guangxiao Temple. The "Meilin Buddhist Temple" plaque we see in the Zhanbai Pavilion was originally handwritten by Emperor Huizong of the Song Dynasty in the second year of Chongning (1103 AD).
Guangxiao Temple is backed by Meifeng Mountain. Entering from the mountain gate along the street, visitors ascend the steps and approach the Hall of Heavenly Kings, Zhanbai Pavilion, Mahavira Hall, Dharma Hall (with the Sutra Repository above), and the Hall of Great Compassion, feeling its purity and solemnity. However, its west-facing east layout is also different from most temples. I wonder what the mystery is.
Meifeng Guangxiao Temple is located on Shengli North Street, Chengxiang District, Putian City. If you include it as a stop on your Putian city walk, it is some distance from Nanshan Guanghua Temple, but it is very close to Dongshan Meizhou Mazu Palace and Bao'en Temple, all within walking distance.

Post by David Lewis Miles-55 | Feb 26, 2025