Magnificent Zen Paradise in Southern Henan | Runan Nanhai Temple Travel Guide
Nanhai Temple, located in Runan County, Zhumadian City, is a national 4A-level scenic area. Its predecessor dates back to the Tang Dynasty and it is one of the eight ancient scenic spots of Caizhou. Covering an area of over 600 acres, it was rebuilt according to the regulations of a royal temple. It is a grand Buddhist temple with magnificent halls, making it one of the largest in the Central Plains region. It integrates worship, ancient architecture sightseeing, and traditional photography, making it a must-visit destination for cultural and spiritual pilgrimage in southern Henan.
Key Highlights
The main gate, the temple's iconic gate, is 31 meters high and 50 meters wide. Its imposing three-gate design, with the plaque inscribed "Nanhai Temple," and majestic stone lions standing before it, makes it the first photo spot upon entering the park. The aerial view is particularly stunning.
A 500-meter-long, twelve-archway path leads into the mountain gate. A long, straight main path of bluestone extends, lined with twelve granite archways, each corresponding to one of the twelve links of dependent origination, the twelve zodiac animals, or the twelve bodhisattvas. The stone pillars are carved with auspicious beasts and clouds, showcasing exquisite relief craftsmanship. The corridor has a great sense of depth, creating excellent photo opportunities with its ancient style. Eighteen Arhat stone carvings are located on both sides of the path.
The White Jade Bridge spans the release pond. The pond is wide and open, with swaying lotus leaves. The red walls and palaces are reflected in the water. A winding bridge allows for leisurely strolls along the water's edge. At dusk, the light and shadows cast on the water create a profound Zen atmosphere.
The Hall of Heavenly Kings, the front hall on the temple's central axis, houses statues of the two guardian generals and the four heavenly kings. The hall is solemn and majestic, serving as a transitional structure before entering the main hall area.
The Mahavira Hall, hailed as the largest Mahavira Hall in Asia, is a three-tiered, double-eaved hip-roofed structure with yellow tiles and red walls. Spanning over 6,400 square meters, it surpasses the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City in scale. The hall's corridors feature intricately carved dragon-carved stone pillars. Inside, a 17-meter-tall gilded bronze seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, weighing 72 tons, is enshrined, exuding a majestic aura. The surrounding platform is adorned with intricately carved stone figures of five hundred Arhats. This hall represents the core essence of the temple.
The Bell and Drum Towers, flanking the Mahavira Hall, are soaring, symmetrical, and grand in design. The morning bell and evening drum enhance the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient temple.
The Guanyin Hall, the main hall behind the Mahavira Hall, houses a unique 14-meter-tall gilded camphor wood statue of a Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Guanyin. A popular place of worship, it is a primary spot for visitors to pray and make wishes. The side halls, Manjushri and Samantabhadra Halls, are also open to visitors.
The Bai Sheng Relic Pagoda Courtyard, located in the northeast of the temple, features a granite pagoda that blends traditional Chinese and Southeast Asian architectural styles. The courtyard is tranquil and serene, surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
The temple's long, red-walled corridors stretch far and wide, with afternoon sunlight casting dappled shadows on the walls, ideal for taking photos in a traditional style. The temple's overall layout is symmetrical and well-organized, spacious, and far from the hustle and bustle, offering a calming and soothing atmosphere for visitors.
Opening and Ticket Information
Adult tickets are 40 yuan, with discounts available for online purchases; seniors aged 60-64 and students receive a 50% discount with valid ID; children under 1.2 meters, seniors over 65, military personnel, and disabled persons are admitted free of charge with valid ID; admission is free on the 1st and 15th of each lunar month.
Summer (April-October): 07:30-17:00 (last entry at 16:30); Winter (November-March): 08:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30), subject to the park's daily announcements.
Detailed Transportation Guide
Public Transportation: Take bus route 5 from Runan County directly to the scenic area entrance; or take a bus from Zhumadian Bus Station to Runan, then take a taxi.
Driving: Navigate to Nanhai Temple. The scenic area has a large parking lot with ample parking spaces.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Best times to visit: 9-11 AM and 3-5 PM, when the light is soft and suitable for viewing ancient architecture and taking photos.
Recommended Route: Mountain Gate Archway → Twelve Archways Sacred Way → White Jade Bridge Release Pond → Heavenly King Hall → Great Buddha Hall → Bell and Drum Tower → Guanyin Hall → White Saint Relic Pagoda Courtyard. This route is smooth and avoids backtracking.
Estimated visit time: 2-2.5 hours.
Religious site, please maintain silence. Photography is prohibited inside the halls, and please do not step on the thresholds.
Dress simply and elegantly. Hanfu (traditional Han clothing) is suitable for the temple environment and will produce good photos.
The temple covers a large area, and the entire area is on foot. Comfortable flat shoes are recommended. Free admission on the first and fifteenth of the lunar month, but due to high visitor volume, it's recommended to travel during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
Surrounding Itinerary
Nanhai Temple is very close to Suya Lake and Wuying Pagoda, making it a great option for a one-day cultural and leisure trip in Runan. After visiting the temple, head to Suya Lake to enjoy the scenery and explore the Wuying Pagoda historical site along the way, fully experiencing the historical landscape of Runan.