Quanzhou Kaiyuan Temple: A Thousand-Year-Old Cultural Gem

Kaiyuan Temple in Quanzhou is one of the most representative ancient temples in Leicheng District. It was built in the Tang Dynasty and has a history of thousands of years. Kaiyuan Temple not only has a beautiful complex of ancient buildings, exquisite stone carvings and two towering east and west pagodas, but it is also known as the center of Buddhist culture in southern China. Located on the popular West Street, the neighborhood has a lot of authentic food, food and play, especially suitable for hipster or Buddhist ener who want to quietly walk around and enjoy the monuments.

Recommended tour route:
After entering, you can first visit the famous Kaiyuan Temple mountain gate, wooden structure with a sense of atmospheric grandeur. Then walk into the Grand Hall to admire the majestic structure of the hall and the carvings of Buddha statues. In front of the temple, you will definitely notice the east and west towers on both sides. Built from the Five Dynasties to the early Song Dynasty, it is 40 meters high and is one of the most landmark buildings in the ancient city of Quanzhou. You can slowly circle the tower and feel the torrent of history. There are also different areas in the temple such as the Sutra Hall, the Tibetan Sutra Pavilion, and the Manna Pond.

Photo Spot Recommendations:
1. Shanmen Archway: red bricks and green tiles, antique, most suitable for taking pictures.
2. East and West Twin Towers: Far and near shooting has a taste, especially in good weather, more spectacular under the blue sky.
3. Ancient banyan tree by the manna pool: hundreds of years old tree, full of artistic conception, suitable for hipster photos.
4. Sutra roof stone carving: delicate carving worth slowly photographing and appreciating.

Playing Tips and Notes:
- It is recommended to enter around 9am, there are relatively few people, you can slowly feel the quiet atmosphere of the temple.
- Dress appropriately in the temple, avoid wearing sleeveless and ultra-shorts, respect religious places.
- Remember to stay quiet and do not make loud noises or take pictures in the hall (photographing is prohibited in some areas, please pay attention to the signs).
- After visiting the Kaiyuan Temple, it is recommended to walk along the West Street. There are many authentic food shops nearby, such as meat dumplings, peanut soup, moist cakes, glutinous rice cakes, etc., very many choices.

Itinerary summary:
Kaiyuan Temple is definitely a must-visit to appreciate the ancient times and feel the cultural heritage of Quanzhou. After the tour, you can eat the specialty snacks of West Street to satisfy your senses and taste buds at once.

Topic Recommendations:
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