South Putuo Temple Travel Guide – Top Attractions and Tips in Xiamen

I’m Michael Zhang, a passionate traveler who has spent years exploring temples and historical landmarks across Asia. My journeys have taken me from the Potala Palace in Tibet to Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, always seeking the stories where faith and history intertwine. Every temple, in my view, holds a soul of its own — a meeting point between the sacred and the human. This time, I invite you to join me in discovering South Putuo Temple in Xiamen, one of southern China’s most beloved Buddhist sanctuaries. Here, the fragrance of incense meets the calm rhythm of the sea, offering a glimpse into the profound spiritual heart of Minnan culture.

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South Putuo Temple Overview

South Putuo Temple, located beside Xiamen University and facing the sparkling harbor, covers an impressive 258,000 square meters. It was originally built in the late Tang Dynasty under the name Sizhou Temple. During the Song Dynasty, it was renamed Puzhao Temple. The temple later fell into ruin in the early Ming period but was rebuilt during Emperor Kangxi’s reign in the Qing Dynasty. Because it is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Guanyin—just like the famous Putuo Mountain in Zhejiang Province—and lies south of it, it was renamed “South Putuo Temple.” Today, it stands as one of the most important Buddhist centers in southern Fujian.

Among its treasures are a blood-written Lotus Sutra from the Ming Dynasty and a white porcelain Guanyin statue crafted by the renowned sculptor He Chaozong—both priceless relics of Buddhist art.

The temple’s central axis features the Hall of Heavenly Kings, Mahavira Hall, Hall of Great Compassion, and Scripture Library, with symmetrical buildings such as the Bell and Drum Towers, Meditation Halls, and Guest Houses on both sides. It also houses the Minnan Buddhist Institute and Buddhist Education Academy. A serene pond for releasing fish sits at the front, while behind the temple stands the newly built Memorial Pagoda of Master Taixu. The layout is grand yet orderly, perfectly balancing harmony and solemnity.

• Address: No.515, Siming South Road, Siming District, Xiamen (Apple Maps / Amap)
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (the rear mountain is open until 4:00 PM)
• Suggested Visit Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Best Season to Visit: All year round
• Ticket Price: Free, but advance reservation is required

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South Putuo Temple Map

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Why You Should Visit South Putuo Temple

Centuries of History and Cultural Depth

Founded in the late Tang Dynasty nearly 1,400 years ago, South Putuo Temple has been rebuilt and expanded many times through the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. During the Qing period, after General Shi Lang reclaimed Taiwan, the Hall of Great Compassion was added and the temple received its current name. It eventually became the largest Buddhist temple in southern Fujian, preserving countless scriptures, relics, and artifacts. Even today, it hosts meditation retreats, Dharma assemblies, and lectures on Buddhist culture—making it a cornerstone for anyone interested in exploring the spiritual heritage of Minnan Buddhism.

Architectural Beauty and Natural Harmony

Built against the mountain, South Putuo Temple follows a classic symmetrical layout. Its axis features the Hall of Heavenly Kings, Mahavira Hall, Hall of Great Compassion, and Scripture Library. The structures blend traditional red-brick Minnan style with Buddhist solemnity, showcasing exquisite stone and wood carvings. Behind the temple rises Wulao Peak, where lush greenery meets ocean views. In autumn, golden leaves and clear streams create a poetic landscape, while the summit offers panoramic views of Xiamen’s skyline and coastline.

Unique Experiences and Interactive Activities

Visitors can receive complimentary incense and participate in traditional worship rituals such as hand cleansing and incense offering. The temple also serves vegetarian meals, allowing guests to enjoy a mindful dining experience rooted in Buddhist principles. For those seeking inner peace, meditation sessions and scripture copying activities are available. These immersive programs let travelers not only visit but truly experience Buddhist life, making South Putuo Temple a perfect destination for reflection and serenity.

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Top Things to Do in South Putuo Temple

Main Attractions

Hall of Heavenly Kings

The Hall of Heavenly Kings marks the grand entrance to South Putuo Temple, embodying solemnity and grace. At the center stands a smiling Maitreya Buddha, radiating compassion and joy. Flanking him are the mighty Four Heavenly Kings, each stepping on symbolic creatures representing wind, harmony, rain, and order—guardians who protect the temple and its teachings. Behind them is the vigilant Skanda Bodhisattva, holding a vajra staff, symbolizing purity and defense of the Dharma. As incense smoke drifts and the deep toll of bells fills the air, visitors often feel as if they’ve left the modern world behind, entering a space of calm and reflection.

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Mahavira Hall

The Mahavira Hall serves as the heart of South Putuo Temple and the spiritual center for Buddhist devotees. Inside, the grand hall enshrines Shakyamuni Buddha, accompanied by Manjusri and Samantabhadra Bodhisattvas on either side. The golden statues gleam under soft daylight, their presence powerful yet serene. The hall’s roof, covered with glazed tiles and decorated with traditional curved eaves, reflects the distinct Minnan architectural charm. Each morning and evening, the rhythmic chanting of monks echoes through the hall, creating a deeply meditative atmosphere. Regardless of one’s faith, sitting quietly here offers a sense of peace and reverence.

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Hall of Great Compassion

Located behind the Mahavira Hall, the Hall of Great Compassion houses the revered Thousand-Armed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin Bodhisattva, a symbol of mercy and salvation. The statue’s delicate expression and sacred posture embody the spirit of compassion. The hall is often filled with devotees burning incense and praying softly, surrounded by a tranquil haze. When sunlight filters through the lattice windows, illuminating the golden figure, the entire hall radiates divine brilliance. For visitors hoping to experience the temple’s most profound spiritual energy, the Hall of Great Compassion is truly unmissable.

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Wulao Peak

Wulao Peak, located behind South Putuo Temple, is one of the best scenic viewpoints in Xiamen. The climb takes about 20 minutes, with winding stone steps that reveal stunning views of the temple complex and the red rooftops of Xiamen University along the way. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Twin Towers and Gulangyu Island—a paradise for photographers. The best time to hike is around 4 PM, when the soft afternoon light creates the perfect glow for photos. Some parts of the trail can be slippery, so it’s important to wear non-slip shoes and stay cautious on the descent.

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South Putuo Temple Reservation Guide

South Putuo Temple does not require a ticket, but advance reservations are mandatory through its official WeChat Mini Program “South Putuo Temple Reservation Service Platform.”

• Note: If you fail to make a reservation, you can still ask the staff at the entrance if entry is possible on the same day. During off-peak times, they often allow visitors to enter. However, do not trust people outside the gate claiming they can get you in for a fee—they are not official staff. Avoid any paid “entry services.”

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Recommended Worship Route at South Putuo Temple

Suggested worship and visiting sequence: Enter through the East Mountain Gate → Collect incense at the incense counter (left side of the entrance, one stick per person) → Wash your hands at the purification basin (beside the main stairway) → Light incense at the designated platform (on the right) → Offer incense at the Hall of Heavenly Kings (insert incense into the burner at the entrance) → Proceed to the Mahavira Hall → Hall of Great Compassion → Scripture Library → Manjusri Hall → Observe the large Buddhist inscription → Descend to the South Putuo Vegetarian Restaurant.

• Important Reminders:
  • Avoid wearing short skirts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing.
  • Remove sunglasses and hats before entering the temple.
  • Keep quiet inside; no loud talking or flash photography.
  • Never blow incense with your mouth.
  • Step over the threshold with your right foot first—never tread directly on it.

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Recommended Vegetarian Dining Near South Putuo Temple

South Putuo Temple operates two vegetarian restaurants within its grounds:

• Puzhao Building
  • Lunch (11:00–14:00): Self-service buffet (CNY 99 on weekdays, CNY 118 on weekends and holidays).
  • Afternoon Tea (14:30–17:30): Offers Bodhi tea sets with fruits, desserts, and beverages.
  • Dinner (17:00–19:30): Serves noodles and light snacks.
  • Second Floor: À la carte restaurant offering traditional vegetarian banquets, including century-old Minnan-style dishes (Open 11:00–14:00, 17:00–20:00).
• Haihui Building
  • First Floor: Serves satay noodles, handmade noodles, and small side dishes (8:00–17:00).
  • Second Floor: Offers premium vegetarian set menus.

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Recommended Hotels Near South Putuo Temple

It’s best to stay near Zhongshan Road, where most visitors choose accommodation close to Gulangyu Island. The area is well connected to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport by Metro and direct buses. It’s also within walking distance of major attractions and food streets such as Gulangyu, Zhonghua City, Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, Hongshan Temple, Xiamen University, Shimao Twin Towers, Shapowei, South Putuo Temple, Island Ring Road, Botanical Garden, and Bailuzhou Park. For more information, see Xiamen Hotel Recommendations.

Echeng Hotel (Xiamen Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street)

• Location: 15 minutes walk from Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street
• Price Range: 360 RMB
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
• Rating: 4.7 out of 5 on Trip.com
• Special Amenities: Laundry room, robot room service, family rooms

Excellently located near Ba Shi market and the ferry terminals, surrounded by numerous dining options.

Rooms are clean and beds are comfortable. Although the facilities are somewhat dated, the hotel offers great value for money.

JI Hotel (Xiamen Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street Siming South Road)

• Location: 4 minutes walk from Zhenhai Road Metro Station, 6 minutes walk from Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street
• Price Range: 385 RMB
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
• Rating: 4.7 out of 5 on Trip.com
• Special Amenities: Laundry room, robot room service, family rooms

The hotel is ideally situated on Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street, close to a subway entrance, and opposite Zhonghua City and Tiger City where you can enjoy a complete lifestyle experience. The Xiamen Ferry Terminal is also within walking distance.

The hotel features a full range of facilities, maintains cleanliness and a quiet environment, and is well-maintained. The shower pressure is notably strong.

Swiss Grand Xiamen

• Location: 7 minutes walk from Zhenhai Road Metro Station, 11 minutes walk to Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street
• Price Range: 647 RMB
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
• Rating: 4.6 out of 5 on Trip.com
• Special Amenities: Gym, family rooms, quadruple rooms

Conveniently located near public transport and within a ten-minute walk to Ba Shi market and Zhongshan Road. Most of Xiamen’s attractions are nearby.

Spacious and clean rooms with unbeatable sea views, waking up to the sight of Gulangyu Island. Excellent hotel services are also noted.

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How to Get to South Putuo Temple from Downtown Xiamen

It’s best to take a taxi directly. Taxis in Xiamen are very affordable, and although buses cost less, they are far less convenient than taking a cab.

By Bus

Take Bus B100 and get off at Xiamen University/South Putuo Temple Station. The fare is 1 CNY, and the ride takes about 20 minutes.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service

A taxi from the Gulangyu area to South Putuo Temple takes about 10–15 minutes and costs around 15 CNY. Taxis in Xiamen are affordable and much more convenient than buses.

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FAQ