Zunyi Xiangshan Temple

Zunyi Xiangshan Temple

Zunyi Xiangshan Temple is a National AAA-level tourist attraction and a Guizhou Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Standing proudly in the center of the renowned city of Zunyi, Xiangshan Temple commands the summit of Xiangshan Hill, which is encircled by the hills of Honghuagang District and bordered by the Chuanjiang River, a branch of the Guiyang Canal. With shimmering waters supporting delicate lotus buds and lush foliage guarding radiant flowers, it is an elegant and beautiful ancient temple that has stood for a millennium. It was rated as a National AAA-level scenic area in 2007.

Constructed during the Dali era (766–779 AD) of Emperor Daizong of the Tang Dynasty, the temple was initially named Wanfu Temple. Over its more than 1,200 years of history, it has undergone several name changes: it was called Huguo Temple in the early Yuan Dynasty, Xiangshan Temple in the late Ming Dynasty, Shuangquan Chan Temple in the mid-Qing Dynasty, and Wanshou Chan Monastery in the early Republican period. However, the name Xiangshan Temple has endured to this day.

The entire temple complex boasts a majestic yet graceful presence, with a thoughtfully balanced layout, rigorous structure, and exquisite craftsmanship. It features red pillars and golden rooftops. Along the central axis, there are three main halls: First, the Heavenly King Hall stands at the southern end. Second, the Mahavira Hall is crowned with a roof ridge adorned with two dragons holding a sacred cauldron, and its upturned eaves feature dragons playing with water; the plaque above the entrance was inscribed by Liu Haisu, a master of contemporary art. Between the exquisitely colored double eaves, the golden characters “Patriotism and Devotion to Buddhism” and the couplet “Fragrant and Resplendent Spiritual Terrace, Eternal Light Illuminates All Realms; Magnificent Pure Land of Avatamsaka, Universal Compassion Embraces All Worlds” are calligraphic works by Zhao Puchu, former president of the Buddhist Association of China and a renowned master of calligraphy. The horizontal plaque “Pure Land on Earth” is the handwriting of the Buddhist scholar Yu Yu. The front gate is carved with two dragons embracing the sun, while the rear gate features two phoenixes facing the rising sun. Third, the Guanyin Hall is also double-eaved, with the lower level housing a reclining jade statue of the Buddha oriented in the opposite direction. The serene statue, three meters in length, features smooth lines and a lustrous, jade-like glow. Each hall is adorned with intricately carved beams and painted rafters, and the statues within are remarkably lifelike. An elegantly tall bell tower and a sturdily arched stone gate stand facing each other on either side of the first two halls. A beautifully crafted precious tripod and a golden Buddhist bell are erected in the courtyard, where visitors gather to strike the bell and pray for peace and blessings during the New Year celebrations. The scripture depository, filled with calligraphy and paintings, and the tranquil, rustic stupa garden flank the main halls. Beside the stupa garden is a stele pavilion housing a stone tablet engraved with a Guanyin image painted by Wu Daozi, a renowned Tang Dynasty artist. The depiction embodies the “brocade-robed figures” style of the prosperous Tang era—barefoot and standing atop clouds, with delicately carved eyebrows, eyes, mouth, and nose in relief, while the rest is in intaglio. With gracefully arched brows, full cheeks, and flowing robes, the figure exudes poise and elegance, and is widely regarded as a treasured masterpiece. Each hall is flanked by corridors that complement the main structures, forming courtyards. Delicate garden gates connect the various courtyards, linked by white-marble-like stone corridors. Within the courtyards, ornamental ponds glisten like diamond-shaped mirrors, inviting visitors to explore and play traditional games. Flower stands bloom year-round, and potted plants remain green in all seasons. There is cool shade under the sun, gentle shadows in the moonlight, soothing sounds in the breeze, melodious echoes in the rain, and pristine clarity when it snows—all set against a backdrop of crimson walls and jade railings. Ancient stone inscriptions and poetic works by celebrated artists enhance each other’s charm. The Jiangwang Tower, a fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles, is located east of the Heavenly King Hall. This cross-shaped, three-tiered sloping roof structure stands 15 meters tall, with its 24 vertical columns and 118 beams cleverly concealed. The tower features 84 overhanging eaves, each adorned with 84 bell-shaped flowers. Its 24 upturned corners, layered and interlocking, seem to soar into the sky. The first and second floors have cantilevered beams on all four sides, supporting long corridors enclosed by ornamental railings. Its unique design and imposing presence offer visitors panoramic views of the undulating green hills from the balcony, while the glimmering waves of the Chuanjiang River sparkle like silver below.

In 1993, Xiangshan Temple was listed as a National Key Temple by the Buddhist Association of China. In 1995, it was recognized as an “Advanced Collective in the Construction of Both Material and Spiritual Civilization” by the Guizhou Provincial Bureau of Religious Affairs. In July 1998, Venerable Xinzha, who returned from studies in Singapore at the Minnan Buddhist College, initiated reforms and revitalization efforts dedicated to benefiting all beings and actively engaging in public welfare. He restored the ancient temple’s former glory and reaffirmed its status as a renowned spiritual site. The morning bells awaken the mind, the evening drums inspire reflection, and the lingering incense and chants further enrich the temple’s vitality. Dignitaries from Singapore, Myanmar, Japan, the United States, Germany, Portugal, and Israel have visited, while pilgrims from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and mainland provinces continue to arrive in an endless stream. The temple is bustling with visitors daily, and especially during the annual Guanyin festivals held three times a year, the crowds of devotees are particularly immense.

Address: No. 103, Zhongshan Road, Honghuagang District, Zunyi City

Phone: 0851-28824174

Opening Hours:

8:00-17:30

Transportation

From the former site of the Zunyi Conference, take bus routes 7, 9, 14, 21, or 25, then walk for about 10 minutes to reach the temple.

Admission Fee:

2 RMB.