The temple, which is one of the oldest still-standing structures in all of South China, was built during the Jin dynasty (317-420AD), and remains a site of pilgrimage for many Buddhists, especially those who practice Chinese Zen Buddhism. The enormous temple grounds house a number of smaller pagodas devoted to various deities, as well as a large statue of a sleeping Buddha. The main hall houses three enormous statues of the Buddha that will leave you standing in awe. People trickle in and out of the compound, lighting incense and paying their respects to the various idols, while Buddhist monks and nuns’ chants can be heard from their prayer halls. The admission price for this temple is 5 RMB, though it pays to be wary of the persistent beggars on your way in and out.
While you’re at Guangxiao, it’s worth taking the short walk to the Wuxianguan Temple五仙观, or the Temple of the Five Immortals. This is done by taking Wuxianguan Lu, to Huifu Lu, from which you take a left onto Huifu Donglu, and after a short walk you will find grounds of this temple. It’s a particularly peaceful place to rest after your earlier wanderings.
Sign up with
Google
