Millennium Temple: A Gem of Purity

Located in the southeastern coastal region of China, apart from the renowned Mount Putuo in Zhejiang, another famous Guanyin pilgrimage site is the Nanputuo Temple in Xiamen, Fujian Province. Established during the Tang Dynasty, Nanputuo Temple boasts a history of over 1,200 years. The temple is nestled amidst the lush Wulao Peak, facing the sea and surrounded by the verdant Nantai Wushan, a location so well-chosen that it rarely suffers from natural disasters. In front of the temple and the Wulao Peak behind it, numerous cliff carvings and historical relics from various dynasties have been preserved, holding significant cultural value.

When visiting Xiamen, apart from Gulangyu Island, one must not miss this historical site, the internationally renowned Nanputuo Temple. Despite weather forecasts predicting rain and strong winds in the afternoon and evening, the island remains bathed in endless springtime charm. Considering the recovery needed after a typhoon, I decided to seize the opportunity to visit Nanputuo Temple before the storm arrived.

Visitor Tips:
1. Free Admission: Book in advance through the WeChat mini-program "Nanputuo Temple Reservation Service Platform."
2. Prayer Ritual: Collect free incense from the small hut inside the temple, cleanse your hands, light the incense, and offer your prayers.
3. Adjacent to "Xiamen University," one of China's most beautiful universities, which can also be visited by appointment.

The summer heat outside feels like a barbecue, scorching everything in its path. However, near Nanputuo Temple, even from a distance, one can feel a refreshing coolness that rejuvenates both body and mind. Perhaps this is a testament to Xiamen's persistent efforts to balance urban development with the preservation of its cultural heritage. Unlike many other famous temples that are heavily commercialized, Nanputuo Temple maintains an elegant environment, surrounded by high mountains.

As you approach the temple, you'll pass a large circular fence and see the temple and the release pond in front of the lotus pond. Bougainvillea, kapok, phoenix trees, and bodhi trees flourish year-round, always in bloom. The lotus flowers in the pond compete to blossom, their reflections in the water mirroring the blue sky, white pagodas, and green trees, creating a pristine atmosphere that captivates visitors. I believe the beings here are blessed with universal light, always vibrant, yet they also attract a steady stream of tourists. The vegetarian food at Nanputuo Temple is also a highlight and worth trying. Arrive early to avoid long queues at lunchtime, as the dishes are highly sought after.

The central axis of Nanputuo Temple features four main buildings: the Heavenly King Hall, the Mahavira Hall, the Hall of Great Compassion, and the Sutra Pavilion, each layered and corresponding to the temple's layout. The Mahavira Hall is the temple's centerpiece, flanked by the main halls of the Arhat Hall. I saw golden Arhats guarding the hall, with many visitors sincerely worshiping in front of it, making respectful wishes as if they were praying for something significant. I couldn't help but join in. After paying respects to the Arhats, I proceeded to the Hall of Mourning and Joy dedicated to Guanyin. Despite the high and long stone steps, visitors climbed with enthusiasm, showing no signs of fatigue, their devotion evident as they prayed under the sun and moon.

Nanputuo Temple provides free incense, one per person. Don't forget to light incense and pray at the entrance before leaving the temple. Watching visitors kneeling and burning incense is a spectacular sight. Donations are voluntary; if you ask a monk about the cost of blessings, they will reply "as you wish." You can donate, but it's not mandatory. The temple emphasizes voluntary contributions, and many willingly donate for incense offerings. Next time, remember to explore the Wulao Peak behind the temple to experience the scholarly atmosphere of history.

A mountain doesn't need to be high to be famous if it has a deity; water doesn't need to be deep to be spiritual if it has a dragon. When asked about my impression of Nanputuo Temple, I would say the temple isn't vast, but it is divine. I truly wish to make a vow here. Every time I pass through Xiamen, I can't help but admire and feel the sanctity of this place, purifying the fresh sky.

Post by iMemory | Oct 27, 2025