Lotus Peak of Mount Wuyi

Lotus Peak of Mount Wuyi

Lotus Peak, one of the Thirty-Six Famous Peaks of the Mount Wuyi Scenic Area, is situated in the northwest section of the park. Its name suggests a blooming lotus in all its splendor, with expansive mountain views that are pristine yet captivating. The peaks embody gentle sentiments, and the lively murmurs of streams blend with the verdant flow, reluctant to fade as they seem to glance back again and again. The couplet captures the beauty of the surrounding landscape, serving as a concentrated summary of Lotus Peak’s natural scenery.

With an elevation of 536 meters, Lotus Peak is not particularly high, but it rises abruptly and stands imposingly, with sheer red cliffs stacked in layers and towering peaks. The winding mountain paths add to its length, and the perilous journey inadvertently tests the sincerity of those who seek spiritual enlightenment. On the steep cliffs, there are many works of nature’s artistry — faint outlines of sacred Buddhist creatures such as ancient apes, oxen, goats, turtles, deer, snakes, and frogs can be seen in the rock faces, each in unique forms. As the old saying goes, “Deep mountains conceal ancient temples,” and indeed, hidden within a cave at the summit of this mountain lies a unique ancient temple — Miaolian Temple — which has become its distinctive feature.

Miaolian Temple

What makes Miaolian Temple unique is that it is a classic hanging monastery. Built within a natural crevice in the rock face, apart from the temple entrance, the inner halls are carved directly into the rock fissure without using a single brick, tile, or supporting pillar. Stretching over 30 meters in length, it houses the Mahavira Hall, the Guanyin Hall, and the Koubing Hall (the Koubing Hall commemorates the ancient Buddhist monk Koubing, the most renowned high monk in the history of Mount Wuyi). The carved beams under the eaves of the pavilions are all adorned with lotus designs. A hanging monastery of such scale is extremely rare in China, making Miaolian Temple a major highlight of Lotus Peak.

Source: Fujian Provincial Department of Tourism Development