Nansha Temple in Guangzhou | A Sacred Place for Prayers on the Millennial Maritime Silk Road

Originally built in the Sui Dynasty as an official temple for worshipping the sea god, the temple now features a Qing Dynasty wooden archway inscribed with "Hai Bu Yang Bo" (meaning "calm seas") and the Ming Dynasty Bathing Sun Pavilion (one of the eight scenic spots of Yangcheng). Must-sees include the Tang Dynasty Han Yu Stele and the Northern Song Dynasty Kaibao Stele. The temple is most lively during the "Boluo Dan" Temple Fair (a thousand-year-old temple fair) on the 13th day of the second lunar month, where you can witness the intangible cultural heritage parade of "Five Sons Paying Homage to the King". 🙏Prayer Guide Throw holy cups in front of the Nansha God statue and pray for safe voyages. Touch the Ming Dynasty stone lions (the female lion on the west side for marriage, the male lion on the east side for career). Watch the sunrise from the Bathing Sun Pavilion (a sacred place for ancient literati to worship the sun). 📍Address No. 22 Xuri Street, Miaotou Village, Huangpu District, Guangzhou (near Huangpu Port) 🚌Transportation Guide Subway: 8-minute walk from Exit C2 of Nansha Temple Station on Line 13. Bus: Take B1/B26/B30 to Nansha Temple Station. Car: Navigate to "Nansha Temple". Parking is available at the scenic spot for CNY 5/hr. ⏰Opening Hours 9:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:30) Tickets: CNY 10 (half price for students, free during Boluo Dan) Guided tours: Free at 10:00/15:00 (reservations required) 🔁Recommended Nearby Attractions 15-minute walk to Huangpu Ancient Port Site to see the Qing Dynasty wharf. 3 subway stops to the former site of the Whampoa Military Academy. 10-minute drive to Longtou Mountain Forest Park. 🍲Local Flavors Must-try "Boluo Zongzi" (sticky rice dumplings with salted meat wrapped in banana leaves) outside the temple. "Nangang Fish Balls" are springy and delicious. If you visit Huangpu Ancient Port, you can also try the boat congee at Mao Ji.