Tourism GuideGuangxiao Temple
One of the oldest and most historically significant Buddhist temples in Southern China with over 1700 years of history
Key Information
Founded
Around 196 AD Western Han Dynasty
Architectural Style
Traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture with Lingnan characteristics
Main Deity
Sakyamuni Buddha
Famous Monk
Huineng Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism
UNESCO Status
Part of Guangzhou Historic Center nominated for World Heritage
Best Time to Visit
October to December for pleasant weather
Nearby Attractions
Six Banyan Temple Yuexiu Park Chen Clan Academy
Cultural Significance
Birthplace of Chan Buddhism in Southern China
Conservation Status
National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit
Annual Visitors
Approximately 500000
Guangxiao Temple also known as Bright Filial Piety Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Guangzhou with a history dating back to the Western Han Dynasty around 196 AD Originally built as the residence of Prince Zhao Jiande of the Nanyue Kingdom it was later converted into a Buddhist temple during the Three Kingdoms period The temple has served as a major center for Buddhist learning and practice in Southern China for centuries Many famous monks including the Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism Huineng were ordained here The temple complex features traditional Chinese architecture with magnificent halls ancient trees and historical relics that showcase the rich Buddhist heritage of the Lingnan region
Things to Do
- Visit the Mahavira Hall to see the magnificent statues of Sakyamuni Buddha and his disciples
- Explore the Sixth Patriarch Hall dedicated to Huineng where he famously said The wind is moving not the flag
- Admire the ancient Bodhi tree planted during the Song Dynasty over 1000 years ago
- See the Iron Pagoda built during the Five Dynasties period one of the oldest iron pagodas in China
- Walk through the temple gardens featuring traditional Lingnan style landscaping
- Observe Buddhist ceremonies and chanting sessions held daily by resident monks
- Visit the temple museum displaying historical artifacts and Buddhist scriptures
- Participate in incense offering rituals following traditional Buddhist customs
- Photograph the beautiful traditional architecture with curved eaves and colorful decorations
- Attend special events during Buddhist festivals like Buddha's Birthday and Ullambana
