Temple of Six Banyan Trees

The Temple of Six Banyan Trees, also known as Liurong Temple, is one of Guangzhous most important Buddhist temples with a history spanning over 1,500 years. Originally built in 537 AD during the Liang Dynasty, the temple was named after the six ancient banyan trees planted by the famous poet Su Dongpo during the Song Dynasty. The temples centerpiece is the magnificent Flower Pagoda, a 57.6-meter tall octagonal structure that has become an iconic symbol of Guangzhou. The pagoda features nine stories with colorful glazed tiles and intricate Buddhist carvings. The temple complex houses several halls including the Mahavira Hall, Hall of Six Patriarchs, and Hall of Guanyin, each containing precious Buddhist statues and artifacts. Throughout its long history, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, with the current structures dating mainly from the Qing Dynasty. It serves as an active Buddhist monastery and cultural center, attracting both pilgrims and tourists who come to admire its architectural beauty and spiritual atmosphere.