Quanzhou Guan Yu Temple

Quanzhou Guan Yu Temple

Quanzhou Guan Yu Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

When it comes to the “Guan Yu Temple” on Tumen Street in downtown Quanzhou, no local is unaware of it. The temple covers an area of over two acres and consists of the main temple and two side halls—the Hall of Three Sworn Brothers and the Hall of Revering Ancestors—arranged side by side. Each has a front hall and a main hall spanning three courtyards, with a newly built antique-style building at the rear. The incense here burns year-round, and its devotees extend as far as Southeast Asia and Taiwan. It is now the site of the Taoist Cultural Research Association in downtown Quanzhou.

Quanzhou is a place where folk beliefs are most concentrated, encompassing Taoism, Confucianism, and folk religion that closely resembles Confucianism. There are many deities in Confucian belief, which is essentially polytheistic. In one temple, you might find figures such as Guan Yu, the Earth God, and Zhang Fei enshrined together. Temples in Taiwan, especially Guan Yu temples, share this polytheistic characteristic with those in Quanzhou.

Quanzhou is a historic and culturally rich ancient city. In ancient times, influenced by Central Plains culture, it was a hub of talent and earned the title “Zoulu by the Sea.” Its folk belief culture is vibrant, leading to its reputation as the “Buddhist Nation South of Quanzhou.” As you walk through the streets of Quanzhou, you’ll see solemn and classic temples such as Kaiyuan Temple, Chengtian Temple, Tianhou Palace, the Mosque, and Guan Yu Temple. Despite centuries of wind and rain, these sacred sites still stand along the streets of Quanzhou, bearing witness to the historical changes of the ancient city and serving as cultural landmarks that Quanzhou people take great pride in.

(Image source: netizen lucyinsisu)

Source: Fujian Provincial Tourism Development Commission