South Putuo Temple

南普陀寺

A famous Buddhist temple of southern Fujian, backed by Wulao Peak. It is free to enter, and a climb up the mountain behind it offers views over Xiamen University and the sea. It is known for its vegetarian meals and vegetarian pastries.

South Putuo Temple was first built in the Tang dynasty. It is named for its worship of Guanyin and for lying south of Putuo Mountain in Zhejiang. It is a sacred site of Buddhism in southern Fujian and the home of the Minnan Buddhist Academy, right next to the Da Nan Gate of Xiamen University. Along its central axis stand the Heavenly King Hall, the Main Buddha Hall, the Great Compassion Hall (an octagonal, triple-eaved hall enshrining the four-faced Guanyin) and the Sutra Pavilion. Bell and drum towers and monks' quarters flank the axis. Highlights include the architecture and painted decoration of the Great Compassion Hall; the giant cliffside inscription of the character for “Buddha” behind the Sutra Pavilion; and the trail up Wulao Peak. The stone steps take about 30–40 minutes to reach a mid-mountain viewpoint, where you can look back over the Xiamen University campus and the bay. It is the best angle for a panoramic photo of the university. Admission is free, the temple does not charge for incense, and a stick of incense is given free at the entrance. The temple's vegetarian restaurant is known for its meals, and its vegetarian pastries make good souvenirs. Transport: take Metro Line 1 to Zhenhai Road Station and transfer to a bus, or take a bus to the Xiamen University stop and walk 3 minutes. It is on the way to Xiamen University and Baicheng Beach. Notes: dress modestly within the temple, and do not take photos inside the Buddha halls. The steps up the back mountain are steep, and they are slippery in the rain.

South Putuo Temple

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