Nanshan, Sanya: The Prayer Land of the Sea and Sky Buddha Kingdom

On the southernmost coastline of China stands a towering 108-meter white Guanyin statue. This is Nanshan, known as the "Sea and Sky Buddha Kingdom," a famous Buddhist sacred site since the Tang Dynasty when Master Jianzhen stopped here on his journey to Japan. The Nanshan Sea Guanyin statue, completed in 2005, holds different ritual objects in each of its three faces and is the tallest sea Guanyin statue in the world to date.

🏯 Must-Visit Spots
1️⃣ Nanhai Guanyin Statue
From the Lotus Plaza, the Guanyin statue blends seamlessly with the blue sea and sky. It is especially recommended to take the electric cart around the park to feel the awe of this Buddhist architecture in the gentle sea breeze. When entering the Yuantuo Treasure Hall to pay respects, be sure to look up at the dome—it's adorned with exquisite flying celestial patterns.

2️⃣ Nanshan Temple
This Tang-style temple was initiated by Master Rende in 1993. The Thirty-Three Guanyin Hall in front of the Mahavira Hall is unique, with each Guanyin representing a different practice method. On the east side of the temple, the Bodhi Garden offers shade from several century-old Bodhi trees.

3️⃣ Nanshan Sea Guanyin Cultural Garden
The Buddha Hand Print Wall in the cultural garden is perfect for photos! The staggered Buddha hand sculptures tell the wisdom of Buddhist mudras. Strolling through the corridor engraved with the Heart Sutra, while watching the distant waves crash ashore, you will naturally slow your pace.

🌈 Travel Tips
- The park is very large; it is recommended to take the electric cart tour (30 RMB/person) for ease and time-saving
- You can climb inside the Guanyin statue to the top, but it requires climbing seven flights of stairs, so wear comfortable shoes
- Free incense is available at the entrance; no need to buy expensive incense outside

Standing at the feet of the 108-meter Guanyin, watching the South China Sea waves lap at the Buddha’s feet, you suddenly understand why the ancients said, "Blessings as vast as the Eastern Sea, longevity as enduring as Nanshan." This place is not only a Buddhist sacred site but also a kind of paradise where hurried travelers can find inner peace.

Post by PyryLepist? | Oct 26, 2025