Tianfo Tourist Area

Tianfo Tourist Area

The Tianfo Tourist Area is a national AAA-level tourist attraction.

The Ju'nan Tianfo Tourist Area is a national 3A-level tourist attraction. Located to the north of Ju'nan County, its main features are real mountains, real water, and a real giant Buddha. The natural giant Buddha stretches 3,800 meters in length, with its head resting on the green hills to the southwest and its feet touching the Ming Lake to the northeast. It has a full heavenly crown, a square jaw, a slightly upturned lion-like nose, a perpetually smiling mouth, kind and serene facial features, clearly defined facial details, and distinct limbs. Its expression is peaceful and mysterious, giving the impression that it might step out of the mountain at any moment.

The Reclining Buddha Temple within the tourist area is highly active in worship and serves as the Buddhist cultural center of southern Shandong and northern Jiangsu. The thousand-year-old Tang Dynasty locust tree, having endured centuries of change, remains lush and continues to bloom and bear fruit in spring and autumn, serving as a living testament to the temple’s history. In 1996, in accordance with religious policy, the Ju'nan County Government renovated the Reclining Buddha Temple, which was then approved as the only legally recognized Buddhist activity site in the Yimeng Mountain area. Structures such as the Mahavira Hall, Reclining Buddha Hall, Scripture Depository, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and Sarira Pagoda were subsequently built, creating a magnificent atmosphere. The entire ancient architectural complex of the temple is simple yet elegant, with soaring eaves, carved beams, and painted rafters, presenting an imposing and solemn visage.

Lotus Lake covers an area of 700 acres, resembling a bright mirror embedded in the center of the scenic area. Willow trees line the lakebank, with lush green grass, ornamental pavilions, and splendidly colored corridors. The lake itself shimmers with ripples, dotted with swaying reeds, sunlit lotus flowers, emerald water caltrops, and flying wild ducks. “The Seven-Treasure Lotus Pool and Snowy Sea of Fragrance are exceptionally beautiful and dignified” is an apt description of Lotus Lake. Scenic spots around the lake include Mirror Terrace Buddha Viewing, Water Chestnut Pavilion Sunset, Calm Sea Mercy Voyage, Bodhi Dawn Moon, and Prajna Leisure.

The Nine-Spire Lotus Mountain, when viewed horizontally, resembles a giant dragon soaring and winding through the land. The Guanyin Pavilion stands tall at the highest peak of Lotus Mountain, majestic and solemn, serving as a Buddhist sacred site for praying for blessings and offspring. From the pavilion, one can overlook the panoramic views of the lake and mountains, as well as the changing seasons of the small town. On the eastern foothill, dense pines and cypresses thrive, with the fragrant aroma of torch pines wafting through; on the western foothill, secluded paths wind through lush woods, and the chestnut orchard yields abundant autumn fruits. The Daguan Pavilion and Phoenix Pavilion stand elegantly, offering breathtaking views of the vibrant spring scenery. Other interesting attractions include the One-Line Grotto Heaven, Crocodile Emerging from Water, Thinking Ape Man, and Golden Turtle Listening to Dharma.

The Buddha Viewing Platform is located in the center of the Tianfo Scenic Area and serves as a sacred site for Buddha viewing and worship. During major festivals, the Buddha Viewing Square is packed with people. Climbing onto the platform and looking north, the immense Tianfo comes vividly into view, stirring the soul and inspiring deep reverence.