Shangguo Temple

Shangguo Temple

Shangguo Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Shangguo Temple is located in Taowu Town, Jiangning District, Nanjing. Originally built in the early Tang Dynasty, it was designated as a key cultural relic protection unit by the Jiangning District People's Government in 1983. Reconstruction began in October 2002.

Shangguo Temple has a long history. During the early Tang Dynasty, Monk Fayan, the founding patriarch of the Niutou Zen sect, once resided here, and the temple flourished most during the late Ming and early Qing Dynasties. It is recorded that during the Qing Dynasty, Shangguo Temple had over a hundred monk’s quarters and more than 20 acres of temple farmland. After enduring several wars, the ancient temple was completely destroyed, leaving only an old well and a ginkgo tree. In 2002, to facilitate the religious practices and faith of the surrounding devotees, and with the approval of the municipal government and the Jiangning District People's Government, the reconstruction of Shangguo Temple officially commenced. The current abbot is Venerable Chuanyi, Vice President of the Nanjing Buddhist Association and Abbot of Pilu Temple.

Adjacent to Niushou Mountain and Zutang Mountain, Shangguo Temple enjoys convenient transportation and a beautiful environment. Nearby lies Ganquan Lake, where the shimmering water complements the mountain views, accompanied by birdsong and floral fragrance. The gentle contours of the hills and the towering pines and cypresses create a perfect harmony with the sacred architecture, highlighting the temple’s profound historical legacy.

Transportation Guide

Address: Hongxing Avenue, Taowu Town, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province

Transit: Take the Tao-Yun bus line in Jiangning and get off at the Hongxing Reservoir fork, then transfer to a minibus to Shangguo Temple