Chengtian Zen Temple, a place for quiet contemplation

Quanzhou Ancient City Walk, second stop, Chengtian Zen Temple! Chengtian Temple is located on the east side of Nanjun Alley, opposite Chengtian Lane in Quanzhou. It was originally the South Garden of Li Congxiao, the military governor of the Qingyuan Army during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Chengtian Temple, also known as Yuetai Temple, was initially named 'Nan Zen Temple'. It was built during the last years of the Baoda era to the early years of the Zhongxing era of the Southern Tang Dynasty. In the fourth year of the Jingde era of the Northern Song Dynasty, it was granted the name Chengtian Temple. The existing temple buildings were reconstructed in the thirtieth year of the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty. Along with Kaiyuan Temple and Chongfu Temple, it is known as one of the three great monasteries in Quanzhou. It is also the place where Master Hongyi preached and spread the Dharma. The gate of Chengtian Temple faces east to west, with the Yuetai at the entrance, and a vertical plaque with the characters 'Yuetai' hanging high. Entering the mountain gate, there is no worship pavilion, but a long and quiet path. The buildings along the central axis are the Hall of Heavenly Kings, Maitreya Hall, Mahavira Hall, Dharma Hall, and Manjusri Hall. In front of the Mahavira Hall, there are two 'life release ponds' with many turtles that have been set free. The overall architectural style of Chengtian Temple is not as ornate and complex as typical Southern Fujian architecture. The temple structures are scattered, and the temple is planted with more than two hundred plants such as banyan trees, willow trees, and longan trees, nestled among the various halls and pavilions. Although the incense is not as strong as in Kaiyuan Temple, it wins in tranquility! Here, one can stroll in the temple or sit quietly under a tree, read a book, daydream, listen to the subtle chanting, smell the faint scent of incense, and let the restless heart gradually settle! Address: No. 36 Nanjun Road, Licheng District, Quanzhou City Time: Summer 6:00-18:00, Winter 6:30-17:30 Per Capita: Free PS: It's a 15-minute walk from Guanyue Temple to Chengtian Zen Temple.