Nanputuo Temple
Fujian Sheng
Nanputuo Temple, also known as South Putuo Temple, is a famous Buddhist temple located on the southeast of Xiamen Island in Fujian Province, China. Founded during the Tang dynasty, it is named after the sacred Mount Putuo in Zhejiang Province, the abode of Guanyin Bodhisattva. The temple is set against the picturesque backdrop of the Wulao Peaks and faces the sea, offering visitors breathtaking views of Xiamen and nearby districts. Historically, it was dismantled during the Yuan dynasty but was rebuilt and expanded in the early Qing dynasty thanks to the patronage of General Shi Lang, who dedicated a shrine hall to Guanyin. In the 20th century, the temple became a center of Buddhist education with the establishment of Minnan Buddhist College, attracting prominent monks like Hong Yi and Yin Shun. Despite suffering damage during the Cultural Revolution, it was restored in the 1980s and remains a vital religious and cultural site. The temple complex features verdant woods, deep caves, and traditional Chinese architecture, making it a spiritual retreat and a notable cultural landmark adjacent to Xiamen University and the Lu River.
Plan your trip to China, People's Republic of with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Nanputuo Temple is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the temple gardens are in full bloom. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. Modest discounts may be available for students and seniors. Since the temple is adjacent to Xiamen University, combining visits to both sites can enrich your cultural experience. Respectful attire is recommended as it remains an active place of worship.
Interesting facts
- •Nanputuo Temple is named after Mount Putuo, a sacred Buddhist site in Zhejiang Province, considered the abode of Guanyin Bodhisattva.
- •The temple is located near Xiamen University, one of China’s prestigious institutions, enhancing its cultural significance.
- •During the Cultural Revolution, the temple was damaged and converted into a factory, reflecting the turbulent period in Chinese history.
- •Prominent Buddhist monks such as Hong Yi and Yin Shun taught at the Minnan Buddhist College established within the temple complex.
- •The temple is surrounded by the Wulao Peaks, a small mountain range that offers scenic views of Xiamen and neighboring districts.
History
Nanputuo Temple was originally established during the late Tang dynasty by Buddhist monks who made the site sacred.
It was dismantled during the Yuan dynasty but restored in the Ming dynasty.
In 1684, General Shi Lang funded the temple's reconstruction and expansion during the early Qing dynasty, dedicating it to Guanyin Bodhisattva and naming it after the famous Mount Putuo.
In the 20th century, the temple became a center for Buddhist education with the founding of Minnan Buddhist College.
The temple suffered significant damage during the Cultural Revolution when it was repurposed as a factory but was renovated and restored in the 1980s, with the first post-Cultural Revolution abbot elected in 1989.
Place Guide
Main Shrine Hall1684
The central hall dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva, featuring traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture and intricate statues symbolizing compassion and mercy.
Minnan Buddhist College1925
Founded in 1925 by Master Hui Quan, this college within the temple grounds became a renowned center for Buddhist scholarship, attracting notable monks such as Hong Yi and Yin Shun.
Wulao Peaks Surroundings
The temple is nestled beside the Wulao Peaks, a small mountain range providing a serene natural environment with caves and lush woods, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
Contact
Phone: 0592 208 8554
