Quanzhou Kaiyuan Temple! Captured a mesmerizing sunset this time

As the most famous Buddhist temple in Quanzhou City, Fujian Province and a national key cultural relics protection unit, Kaiyuan Temple was originally built in 686 AD (the second year of Chuigong era in Tang Dynasty) with over 1,300 years of history. It stands as an important cultural witness to Quanzhou's role as the starting point of the "Maritime Silk Road". Initially named "Lotus Temple" after Huang Shougong donated land for its construction during Tang Dynasty, it was later renamed "Kaiyuan Temple" by Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and became one of Fujian's Buddhist centers during Song Dynasty. The grand Kaiyuan Temple combines architectural styles from Tang and Song dynasties while incorporating influences from ancient Indian and Islamic cultures, reflecting Quanzhou's historical religious diversity. Its landmark East and West Pagodas (Zhenguo Pagoda and Renshou Pagoda) represent the pinnacle of ancient Chinese stone pagoda architecture - both feature exquisite Buddhist story carvings on their five-story octagonal wooden-structured bodies. Other notable sites include the Mahavira Hall, Sweet Dew Ordination Platform, Scripture Depository, and Master Hongyi Memorial Hall. Having visited this historic Buddhist temple multiple times, I was particularly fortunate to witness the enchanting sunset glow bathing the ancient pagodas during this visit.