Luohou Temple
罗睺寺
A Tibetan Buddhist temple in the center of Taihuai Town, famous for its “flower-blooming Buddha” mechanism, in which a turning wooden lotus opens its petals to reveal a Buddha inside.
Luohou Temple lies in the center of Taihuai Town, east of Xiantong Temple. It was first built in the Tang dynasty, rebuilt in the Ming, and converted into a Tibetan Buddhist (Yellow Sect) temple in the Qing, where it enshrines Rahula, the son of Shakyamuni. Its most famous feature is the “flower-blooming Buddha” in the rear hall, a carved wooden lotus platform whose petals can be turned to open and close. When the flower opens, Buddhas of the four directions are revealed inside, a sophisticated piece of craftsmanship. The temple is of medium size, and its halls are well preserved. Entry requires the Mount Wutai scenic area mountain-entry ticket, subject to official announcements, and there is generally no extra charge inside the temple. It is a few minutes’ walk from Xiantong Temple and Tayuan Temple, so it is well suited to visiting alongside the other temples of central Taihuai Town.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:00–18:00 (follow temple notices)
Nearby sights
- Xiantong Temple
- Yuanzhao Temple
- Tayuan Temple & Great White Pagoda
- Wuye Temple (Wanfo Pavilion)
- Pusading Temple
- Pushou Temple
- Shuxiang Temple
- Bishan Temple