Nanputuo Temple

Nanputuo Temple is located next to Xiamen University, so you can visit both on the same day. It is a famous Buddhist temple in southern Fujian and even nationwide. Behind the temple is Wulao Peak, one of the eight major scenic spots in Xiamen. If you want to explore the mountains, you can also go hiking there.

The temple originated in the Tang dynasty and was rebuilt during the reign of Emperor Kangxi in the Qing dynasty. As it shares the same primary worship of Guanyin Bodhisattva with Puji Temple on Mount Putuo and is located south of Mount Putuo, it is named Nanputuo Temple.

The temple has east and west mountain gates outside, with the two gates being very close to each other, so you can enter through either one. The release pool is located slightly ahead between the two gates, containing turtles, and there is also a lotus pond in front.

Nanputuo Temple is quite small, and the visit can be completed quickly if you don't plan to climb Wulao Peak. The main structures include Nanputuo Temple - Mahavira Hall, Nanputuo Temple - Great Compassion Hall, and Nanputuo Temple - Scripture Depository (passed in order from the mountain gate onward). On both sides, there are the bell tower and drum tower, with the Charity Building on the left and Puzhao Building on the right, symmetrically arranged and majestic in grandeur.

Nanputuo Temple - Mahavira Hall enshrines the Three Saints of the West, Nanputuo Temple - Great Compassion Hall houses Guanyin, with the eighteen arhats placed on the east and west sides. In Nanputuo Temple - Scripture Depository, you can see various treasured Buddhist artifacts.

Nanputuo Temple preserves numerous inscriptions by celebrities around its halls. There is a huge stone carving of the character "Buddha" on the cliff behind the temple, often visited by travelers for photos.

Puzhao building is a vegetarian restaurant, and those who prefer vegetarian food may consider dining here. The vegetarian cuisine at Nanputuo Temple is quite famous and has even won national awards.

Don't forget to bring some boxes of vegetarian cakes when you leave. Nanputuo vegetarian cakes have won the Golden Tripod Award in "China's famous snacks" and are a famous specialty of Xiamen. They come in various sweet and savory fillings. If you have trouble choosing, the more popular flavors include coconut, pumpkin and mung bean.

Behind Nanputuo Temple stands Wulao Peak, known as "Five elders reaching the sky," one of the eight major scenic spots in Xiamen. If you enjoy hiking, you can also take the opportunity to climb and explore the mountain.