[2025 Tiantai Attraction] Travel Guide for Guoqing Temple (Updated Jan)

One weekend, I drove from Hangzhou to Guoqing Temple in Tiantai, Taizhou with a friend. The journey was about 170 km, and it took about 2.5 hours to reach the temple along the Changtai Expressway. The scenery outside the window kept changing, and my heart was filled with anticipation. I couldn't wait to experience the tranquility and simplicity of Guoqing Temple. When I arrived at Guoqing Temple, I was immediately drawn to the agricultural and meditation landscape outside the temple. The vast rice fields and vegetable gardens were arranged in an orderly manner. The breeze gently swayed the rice ears, as if telling stories of the past. Walking along the field paths, I could see the local villagers working. This simple life of agriculture and meditation complemented the tranquility and harmony of the temple. Guoqing Temple was built in the 18th year of the Kaihuang era of the Sui Dynasty. It was constructed according to the design drawn by Master Zhiyi, the founder of the Tiantai Sect. It was originally named Tiantai Temple, but later renamed Guoqing Temple, meaning "If the temple is completed, the country will be peaceful." It is not only the ancestral temple of the Tiantai Sect of Buddhism, but also the birthplace of the first sect in Chinese Buddhism. Throughout history, countless eminent monks and great masters have practiced and taught here, leaving behind many legendary stories. For example, before Master Jianzhen of the Tang Dynasty traveled to Japan, he visited Guoqing Temple many times to study Buddhism and spread the teachings of the Tiantai Sect overseas. As I stepped into Guoqing Temple, the charm of the ancient temple, with its towering ancient trees, yellow walls, and black tiles, enveloped me. The faint aroma of incense instantly calmed me down. The temple's architecture is well-preserved, and the Mahavira Hall is solemn and majestic. Every detail exudes a sense of history. As I strolled through the temple, I occasionally heard the chanting of monks, which seemed to have a magical power to cleanse the dust from my heart. After a tiring walk, I had to try the vegetarian food at Guoqing Temple. The vegetarian restaurant is located inside the temple, offering a wide variety of delicious vegetarian dishes. The vegetarian noodles are a must-try, with chewy noodles, rich broth, and fresh, crisp side dishes. There are also various vegetarian stir-fried dishes, made with simple ingredients but cooked to perfection, with every bite full of natural flavors. Every corner of Guoqing Temple exudes a unique charm. The agricultural and meditation landscape outside the temple made me appreciate the simplicity of life, while the tranquility and harmony inside the temple provided solace for my soul. This self-driving trip from Hangzhou not only allowed me to enjoy beautiful scenery and delicious vegetarian food, but also enriched my knowledge with the history and culture of Guoqing Temple.

If you ask me where to stay for rooftop tours I would recommend you to stay at the Xiya Hotel Half stream and half painting The green mountains and green waters outside the window of the B&B The quaint rhyme of the old street The courtyard blends Song dynasty aesthetics with the beauty of Japanese dry landscape It allows people to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of tranquility The hotel boasts 28 rooms with different characteristic views The rooms are decorated with Zen and are extremely luxurious, with a Dyson hairdryer as standard, a luxury minibar, a bodhi bracelet with check-in, and a bathtub in most rooms Breakfast is extremely ceremonial, you can choose Chinese or Western according to your taste In addition to the large suites with open views, the hotel also offers a gym, tea room and other recreational places Create a "Human Courtyard" for customers with customized butler-style service From here, you can reach Tiantaishan Waterfall in 15 minutes, Guoqing Temple in 13 minutes, and right out the door to Shixi Old Street

In Zhejiang, there is a mountain city with a natural fairy-like aura. With a forest coverage rate of 86.9% and negative oxygen ions reaching 2,500 per cubic centimeter, it is the birthplace of the Tiantai Sect of Buddhism, the birthplace of the "Living Buddha" Ji Gong, the starting point of "Xu Xiake's Travels," the place where the Five Hundred Arhats attained enlightenment, and the place where Wang Xizhi realized the essence of calligraphy... This is Taizhou Tiantai. Even more surprising, in this secret place, we found a top luxury hotel - Taizhou Tiantai He Hotel! Just a 5-minute walk from the ancient temple! The entrance is not large, but it exudes a sense of design. The hotel name is engraved on the side wall, and the surrounding greenery is obviously well-trimmed and maintained. The hotel butler will come to greet you, take your luggage, warmly welcome you, and lead you into the hotel. To get from the hotel lobby to the guest room building, you need to pass through the courtyard. The pavilion, flowing water, outdoor swimming pool, lawn, and green vegetation are all carefully maintained by the staff, presenting a luxurious and elegant appearance to the guests. Visit the millennium-old Guoqing Temple: In addition to the basic facilities and activities within the hotel, when you come to Tiantai, you must visit Guoqing Temple. The temple is bustling with incense, but not noisy or crowded. No one will pull you to tell your fortune or buy incense, and it is rated by netizens as one of the "least commercialized scenic spots in China."

1. The temple opens at 7:00 am and closes at 4:00 pm all year round. 2. No longer provides vegetarian meals. 3. Free and delicious black tea and Pu'er tea are available in "Any" (安逸), but no snacks are allowed. After drinking tea, you need to wash the teacup and return it. 4. "Xia Ke Ancient Path" (霞客古道) is closed in winter. 5. To take a long shot of the Sui Pagoda, you need to go outside the temple. 6. After 8:00 am, the number of visitors increases significantly.

As the birthplace of the Tiantai Sect of Chinese Buddhism, this place I have been going to since I was a child is becoming more and more famous. There are more high-end hotels and B&Bs, more Internet celebrity shops, and some cultural and creative + seals. However, surrounded by this worldly prosperity, it still maintains its otherworldly tranquility, like an old monk with a profound Zen heart, his eyelids lowered and silent, waiting for everyone who is destined to visit. [FourLeafClover]Must-see points 1️⃣Sui Mei 2️⃣The gratitude tower, from a certain angle, you can see the hollow state 3️⃣Bodhi tree 4️⃣Arhat Taiwan Number of Arhats You can find your true self. I admire the master at the door. Regardless of the crowds of tourists, he is still concentrating on chanting sutras. That moment is full of Zen. 5️⃣Tea Room After you’ve finished reading, you can ask for a cup of tea at the door and enjoy it quietly. It’s so pleasant. 6️⃣Bodhi tree Before leaving, my sister gave me a string of five-thread bodhisattvas. The five-thread bodhisattva is a specialty of Tiantai Mountain and is named after the five naturally formed lines on the beads. This bodhi seed is light yellow in color with five light black thin lines distributed on the surface. ⚠️Tips: It is recommended to go early during non-holidays, there are tour groups around 9-10 o'clock

Because I really love Guoqing Temple, I always go to Taizhou to find fun places to visit. This time, I found an ancient trail that I love 📍Huangnan Ancient Trail. I really like the feeling of ancient trees, villages, and sunshine. After visiting the temple and enjoying the food, I went to this ancient trail. . 🍂When I went there last week, overall, more than 50% of the leaves had turned yellow, which I was satisfied with! If you wait until all the leaves turn yellow, the leaves on the trees may not be as full. The best time to visit is expected to be in the next two weeks. . ✅[Route options for reference] 🐒 1⃣️12 km, starting from Nanping Village, walking in a loop, ascending 800 m, descending 800 m. I arrived at 9:00, took a lunch break for more than an hour, wandered around the village for 1-2 km, and finished at 15:30, returning to the starting point. ✨Supplies: Starting point, ending point, lowest point Dafan Village 2⃣️6-7 km, Tiantai Nanping Village - Linhai Dafan Village (Huangtan Village), I saw that cars can drive to Dafan Village, so if you don't want to walk back, you can choose this route. From here, the distance to Linhai Station and Tiantai Station is the same, so you can continue to play in Linhai. 🤔There are many places to eat in Nanping Village, so you don't need to prepare food. 🚘Transportation: It's easy to take a taxi from the city center to the starting point. The last bus leaves the village at around 16:00, so it's recommended to return to the village entrance by 15:30. It's difficult to get a taxi. . ✔️[Tiantai One-Day Tour - Huangnan Ancient Trail Version] Arrive at Tiantai Station in the morning - take a taxi to Huangnan Ancient Trail (arrive before 9:00) - hike 12 km, finish and go to the county for dinner - return by high-speed train ✔️[Tiantai 2-Day Weekend Tour] Day 1: Guoqing Temple - Zhizhe Pagoda - Chuxi Old Street Day 2: Huangnan Ancient Trail 12 km, there are still tours available this weekend, come quickly!

This temple that makes people feel pure is so beautiful I didn’t expect that the autumn at Guoqing Temple🍃 would be so beautiful When you walk in here, you can't help but slow down, feel and listen. Its historical heritage is very rich The beautiful scenery has long been rated as a 5A-level scenic spot, but there is no charge. And provide free tea🍵 The temple is quiet and simple Now is the harvest season The courtyard is covered with rice The golden color is so beautiful The vegetarian meal is not in Guoqing Temple Nearby is the Tower of the Wise Man at a distance of 5 km. Remember to make a reservation one day in advance 🍂Guoqing Temple 📍Address: In Tiantai Scenic Area, Tiantai County, Taizhou City

I went to Guoqing Temple, and my heart stayed there. I went to Taizhou. My friend strongly recommended that I visit Guoqing Temple. Today is the first day of winter. I finally checked in at Guoqing Temple in Taizhou. When I saw the "Ancient Temple of the Sui Dynasty" on the wall, I remembered its power. It still maintains the original practice of combining farming and meditation. Practicing Buddhism and daily work are both practices. When you walk into the temple, you will see rice drying on the ground. The joy of harvest fills the entire temple. This trip was so worth it. The 5A-level scenic spot is free, and there is free tea. Every step is a beautiful view. The beauty is natural. On the first day of winter, Guoqing Temple is already in the autumn harvest and winter storage season. Burn incense and drink tea. When things are done, I will leave. I am free. I am grateful to have met Guoqing Temple on this day. It was so beautiful. [Travel Guide] Guoqing Temple Chengguan Town, Tiantai County, Taizhou Drive directly to the parking lot, then walk for 10 minutes. Take the high-speed train to [Tiantai Station], then take a taxi for about CNY 20. It is recommended to arrive at around 7 am, when there are fewer people and you can enjoy the tranquility. After visiting, you can go to the left of the entrance to ask for tea (free).

The simple and natural atmosphere hits your face This treasure place can really recharge people's batteries Come and wait for a while and you will be resurrected with full blood. Highly recommended! The scenery in autumn is very charming Inside the temple, there are staggered ancient trees and towering tiles, which complement each other beautifully under the sunlight and the blue sky. Autumn ends and winter comes, and the leaves gradually turn red and yellow. The rice fields outside the temple are being harvested. The straws are piled up and placed in the fields. The harvested rice is spread on straw mats in the open space of the temple to dry the grains. At dusk, villagers bring dustpans and bamboo baskets to collect grain and put it into baskets. The scene of autumn harvest and winter storage means a good harvest in the coming year! Guoqing Temple The coffee shop in front of the temple is not out of place, it has a bit of a Buddhist feel!

Last week, I saw the masters harvesting in autumn, and the harvest was so fast. When I rushed over, there were only two fields left. I felt that it was over, and the wheat was almost finished drying in the temple. There was no sunshine on the day we arrived, and even though I brought a kettle, the tea room was not opened, which was a bit disappointing. However, it is very suitable to take the elders for a walk without having to climb the mountain. The temple is very big and you can have a good visit. 🅿️Parking is 10 yuan per time, tickets 🎫 are free, and no reservation is required.

Guoqing Temple is located in Tiantai Mountain, "the source of Buddhism and beautiful scenery". It has a history of more than 1,400 years. Among them, the pair of white marble lions in front of the Shanmen Hall were transferred from the Forbidden City; the Seven Buddha Pagoda in front of the Shanmen of Guoqing Temple has a long history; the tall Sui Pagoda was built by Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty in memory of the wise master, and is the landmark building of Guoqing Temple ; A Sui plum tree in the temple was planted by the eminent monk Zhang An. It is one of the oldest plum trees in China. The Sui plum tree was on the verge of dying during the Cultural Revolution. After the ancient temple was fully renovated, the dead tree returned to spring, with branches full of flowers and abundant fruits. It was really Miraculously, although I did not see the Sui Mei in full bloom, her shape is really beautiful; half of the goose-shaped stele is the original work of Wang Xizhi, and the other half was added by Master Cao Luan of Tiantai Township... Huangqiang, black tiles, flowers, ancient trees and large rice fields outside the temple, red persimmons hanging on the branches, old cows walking in the morning... In the early morning, I strolled along the bluestone road, wandering among temples and ancient trees, enjoying the beautiful scenery, quiet and simple. The morning light is shining, the light and shadow are intertwined, and the mottled spots are beautiful.

Upon arriving at Guoqing Temple, the first thing you see is the golden rice fields (Figure 1). It is said that the monks of Guoqing Temple, in addition to chanting and praying, also take care of the fields. There are 50-60 acres of land outside the temple, used to grow rice and vegetables. Inside the temple, there are grains drying on the ground (Figures 7, 8), and you can't help but respect the monks of this temple. It is also said that the vegetarian meals at Guoqing Temple are only 2 yuan and are very filling. The vegetarian meals here have been featured on "A Bite of China". The ingredients for the vegetarian meals are all grown and harvested by the monks themselves. Guoqing Temple was originally named Tiantai Temple, and together with Lingyan Temple, Qixia Temple, and Yuquan Temple, they are known as the "Four Uniques" in the world. Master Zhiyi is the founder of the Tiantai Sect. He had a special relationship with Yang Guang, and the two of them gave each other official titles. In the 11th year of Sui Kaihuang (591), Prince Jin Yang Guang invited Zhiyi to Yangzhou. Zhiyi gave Yang Guang the Bodhisattva precepts and the Dharma name "Zongchi". Yang Guang gave him the title of "Master Zhiyi". After Master Zhiyi passed away, Yang Guang, who was then the governor of Jiangnan, sent someone to build Guoqing Temple according to Master Zhiyi's wishes. Guoqing Temple became the main venue of the Tiantai Sect of Buddhism. (Among the eight major sects of Chinese Buddhism, the Tiantai Sect, founded by Master Zhiyi in Tiantai Mountain during the Sui Dynasty, is the earliest.) In the first year of Sui Daye (605), Emperor Yang of Sui bestowed the name "Guoqing Temple". The two characters "Guoqing" imply a clear and bright country and a peaceful world. This has been used to this day. The four characters "Duo Dai Gu Cha" in front of Guoqing Temple were written by Zhao Puchu. The character "Duo" is missing a "Gong", which is not a typo. The four characters "Da Xiong Bao Dian" of Guoqing Temple are written vertically, decorated with dragon patterns. Only temples that have been bestowed by the emperor can have a straight plaque. There are also thousand-year-old Sui plum trees (Figure 9), nine-story Sui pagodas, Wang Xizhi's half "goose" handwriting (Figure 19)... and the ancient bridge where the old man leads the cow in the classic picture (Figure 20). Guoqing Temple is the earliest temple to be restored after the "Cultural Revolution". National 5A Tourist Attraction, free admission.

Founded in the 18th year of the Kaihuang era of the Sui Dynasty (598 AD), it was originally named Tiantai Temple. Later, it was renamed Guoqing Temple, meaning "if the temple is completed, the country will be clear". Tiantai Guoqing Temple is not only a Buddhist temple with a long history, but also an important birthplace of the Tiantai Sect of Chinese Buddhism. It has rich cultural connotations and a unique architectural style, which is worth visiting. The photos are also very good, and the 5A scenic spot does not require a ticket.

Who would understand that such a beautiful 5A scenic spot is free! And there is no commercial atmosphere online I spent an afternoon at Guoqing Temple, and the more I wandered, the more I sighed. This is truly the most beautiful and flavorful ancient temple in the Jiangzhehu region, and it's worth a visit! Guoqing Temple: 1400 years of history, one of the four ancient temples in China, a free 5A scenic spot, 2 yuan for vegetarian meals, 5 yuan for incense. Many famous monks have lived here, including Hanshan, Shide, and Monk Jigong! It holds a very high position in Buddhism and is the ancestral court of the Tiantai Sect, the first of the eight schools of Chinese Buddhism! √ Free √ No commercialization, no noise or commercialization like other scenic spots, incense in the temple is only 5 yuan a bunch, the masters grow their own crops and raise cattle, it's really simple √ Historical relics are very well preserved, no artificial landscapes like other temple scenic spots, mottled walls, moss on grey tiles, old window flowers, all tell the story of a thousand years Opening hours: 7:00-16:00 (actually opens around 6:30 am) Travel tips 1. Go between 5:40-6:10 am to see the old yellow ox come out of the temple to forage 2. There will be some aunts at the entrance of Guoqing Temple asking if you want to buy incense. Don't buy it in advance, the temple also sells it for 5 yuan a bunch 3. It is recommended to park in the tourist center parking lot, walk all the way in, and come out through the rice fields. It takes about 1-2 hours to visit. The temple is quite large and worth a slow stroll and savoring. Each corner has its own flavor For those who like to take photos, in addition to the inside of the temple, the small stream outside is also stunning. Don't miss it Transportation: Tiantai Mountain Station, then take a taxi for about 20 yuan or take Tiantai Bus No. 5 or 17 to Guoqing Scenic Area Station Self-driving navigation Guoqing Temple Tourist Center (parking 10 yuan once)

Guoqing Temple is located in Tiantai Mountain, Taizhou, Zhejiang, the origin of Tiantai Sect, and is a millennium ancient temple away from the hustle and bustle. As the ancestral home of China's Tiantai Sect, it not only carries a rich Buddhist history, but also shows a unique Zen atmosphere. The temple was built in the 18th year of Kaihuang in the Sui Dynasty (598 AD). Although it has been rebuilt and repaired, the temperament of the millennium ancient temple still comes to the face. Different from many commercial temples, it is simple and quiet here, without too much artificial decoration. There are many "net red spots" for tourists to check in the temple, such as the Qianlong bronze incense burner in front of the Daxiong Hall and the Qing Dynasty Han Baiyu stone lion at the door, but what attracts me more is its profound cultural heritage. The four characters of "Sui Dynasty Ancient Temple" on the big screen in front of the temple highlight the long history of Guoqing Temple. The words reveal the subtle connection between imperial power and Buddhism. Sui Wendi Yang Jian changed "Sui" to "Sui", praying for the long-term national fortune, just as he expected for this temple: if the temple is completed, the country will be clear.

🌟Scenic Area Level: AAAAA 💰Entrance Fee: Free ❤Recommendation Index: 10 points 👨🏻Popularity Index: 9 points 📷Photogenic Index: 10 points 🕙Play Time: 2-3 hours · Guoqing Temple is a 5A scenic area and has always been free to the public. It was first built in the 18th year of the reign of Emperor Kaihuang of the Sui Dynasty (598 AD) and was originally named Tiantai Temple. Later, it was renamed Guoqing Temple, which means "the country will be peaceful if the temple is built." · 🌟Highlights: Guoqing Temple has many buildings from the Sui and Tang dynasties, which are worth a closer look. ✅Sui Pagoda: Built in the 18th year of the reign of Emperor Kaihuang of the Sui Dynasty (598 AD) as a tower of gratitude to Master Zhizhe for receiving the Bodhisattva precepts. It was damaged during the Huichang Persecution of Buddhism in the Tang Dynasty and repaired in the second year of the Jianyan reign of the Southern Song Dynasty (1128 AD). The remaining height is 59.4 meters, the side length is 4.6 meters, it has nine levels on six sides, and is one of the tallest ancient pagodas in Zhejiang Province. ✅Sui Plum Tree: Planted by Master Zhang'an Guanding, a high-ranking monk of the Sui Dynasty and the fifth patriarch of the Tiantai school. According to research, the Sui Plum Tree is over 1300 years old and is one of the three oldest plum trees in China. ✅Single-Stroke Goose Character Stele: A stele with a half-written "goose" character by Wang Xizhi. ✅Rice Field: There is a large rice field at the entrance of the temple. I have already written a note about the rice field, so I will not include photos of the rice field in this post. ❤The old yellow ox goes to and from work. Many photography enthusiasts come here specifically to wait for the old ox. I wasn't here specifically to photograph the old ox, but I happened to catch it! In mid-September, around 6:15 am, the old ox passes the bridge at the entrance of the Sui Dynasty ancient temple. 🏨Accommodation Recommendation: The closest hotel to Guoqing Temple is Tiantai Hotel. This time, I stayed at Tiantai Hotel to avoid the crowds in the morning. I went to Guoqing Temple at 6 am and had breakfast at the hotel after returning. 📝Tips: ①There are some places in the temple where photography is not allowed. There will be signs to remind you. ②There are many small items worth buying at the Dharma Goods Distribution Center. It is recommended to take a look.

Taizhou is a land of magic and beauty. With a longing for nature, I embarked on a journey to explore Tiantai and Shenxianju. Upon arriving in Tiantai, the first thing that caught my eye was Guoqing Temple. This ancient temple, nestled in the mountains, is like a wise man who has been left alone in the world. The architecture of the ancient temple is simple and elegant, and the eaves and arches exude a strong historical atmosphere. Stepping into the temple, the incense is curling, and the Sanskrit is lingering. The branches and leaves of the thousand-year-old camphor tree sway gently in the breeze, as if telling the story of the long years. Walking on the path in the temple, feeling the tranquility and solemnity, the hustle and bustle of the world is left behind at this moment. Leaving Guoqing Temple, I came to Shiliang Waterfall. I saw a huge stone beam spanning between two peaks, and the waterfall poured out from under the stone beam, splashing water. The majestic momentum is awe-inspiring. Standing on the viewing platform, listening to the roar of the waterfall, watching the falling water like the Milky Way, my soul seems to be baptized. The water droplets form beautiful rainbows under the refraction of the sun, adding a touch of gorgeous color to this spectacular scenery. Then, I rushed to Shenxianju. As soon as I entered the Shenxianju scenic spot, I seemed to have stepped into a dreamlike world. The mountains are undulating and varied. Some are like swords piercing the sky, some are like fairies dancing, and some are like old people sitting and thinking. The clouds and mist in the mountains gather and disperse from time to time, and the peaks are looming in the clouds and mist, like a fairyland on earth. Walking along the winding plank road, every step is a new beautiful scenery. Under Guanyin Peak, I stopped and looked up. The mountain is like Guanyin Bodhisattva sitting on a lotus throne, with a kind face, awe-inspiring. Continue to move forward and come to Ruyi Bridge. This uniquely shaped bridge spans between two peaks. The bridge body is transparent. Walking on it is like walking in the clouds, exciting and fun. Looking from the bridge, there is a deep abyss under your feet, and there are strange peaks and rocks around, and the scenery is beautiful. The waterfall in Shenxianju is also a highlight. Different from the majestic Shiliang Waterfall, the waterfall here has a bit more agility and beauty. The waterfall falls from the mountains, like a white silk hanging in the mountains. The water flows through the rocks, making a crisp and pleasant sound, as if it is a beautiful movement played by nature. In the depths of Shenxianju, there are also dense forests. The trees are lush, and the sunlight is sprinkled through the gaps in the leaves, forming patches of light. Various rare plants grow here, making me feel the magic and vitality of nature. Here, I seem to be one with nature, forgetting all my troubles and fatigue. The trip to Tiantai and Shenxianju in Taizhou made me appreciate the magnificence and magic of nature. The tranquility of the ancient temple, the majesty of the waterfall, the peculiarity of the peaks, and the misty clouds are all deeply imprinted in my mind. This is an unforgettable trip, a spiritual journey of intimate contact with nature.

. - Guoqing Temple✅, a thousand-year-old temple, is located in Tiantai County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province. It is the birthplace of the Tiantai Sect of Chinese Buddhism and is considered a sacred place by Buddhists in both China and Japan. As a 5A scenic area, Guoqing Temple is one of the few free scenic areas.

There's a unique charm to rainy days, with the temple's simplicity, tranquility, and serenity. Some tips: 1. Arrive before 7:30 to experience the tranquility; 2. The 5th building of the Tiantai Hotel next door is recommended, book early; 3. The walk from Miki Coffee to Guoqing Temple is a beautiful path through the rice fields, and you can also take photos of the Sui Pagoda; 4. To see the Sui Pagoda up close, go in diagonally opposite the main entrance of Guoqing Temple 5. After your visit, there's free Pu'er tea at the entrance, you can have a cup of tea, remember to wash your own cup Guoqing Temple

Guoqing Temple is located in Chengguan Town, Tiantai County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province. It was first built in the 18th year of the Kaihuang era of the Sui Dynasty (598 AD). Initially named Tiantai Temple, it was later renamed Guoqing Temple, meaning 'If the temple is completed, the country will be clear.' The temple covers an area of 73,000 square meters. During the Sui Dynasty, the eminent monk Zhiyue founded the Tiantai Sect at Guoqing Temple, making it the birthplace of the Tiantai Sect of Chinese Buddhism, with influence extending both domestically and internationally. When Jianzhen crossed the sea to the east, he once paid homage to Guoqing Temple. The Japanese monk Saicho studied at Tiantai Mountain, learning from Daosui. After returning to Japan, he built Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei and founded the Japanese Tiantai Sect, later venerating Guoqing Temple on Tiantai Mountain in Zhejiang as the ancestral temple.

During the summer vacation, we drove to Guoqing Temple in Tiantai Mountain, Taizhou. Outside the temple, there is a stream where you can play in the water and catch fish. There are tall ancient trees on both sides, so it's not sunny at all. It's very tranquil. We stayed at Tiantai Hotel next to Guoqing Temple. Building No. 5 is new and worth staying in. It is very convenient to go to Guoqing Temple and play in the stream. . Guoqing Temple

|||. Tiantai Mountain: The Hidden Fairyland of Half of the Complete Tang Poems Exploring Tiantai, the Long-lasting Charm of Poetry Tiantai Mountain, a sacred mountain that carries 'half of the Complete Tang Poems,' intertwines ancient temples, waterfalls, cliffs, and fields into captivating scenes. This is a hidden treasure of Zhejiang, not only with beautiful scenery but also with profound cultural heritage. Both Xu Xiake and Li Bai were enchanted by it, leaving behind timeless stories. Two Days and One Night, Fully Enjoy the Beauty of Tiantai First Day: Start from Tiantai Mountain High-Speed Railway Station, first visit Guoqing Temple, a thousand-year-old temple, free of charge and tranquil, offering a dual cleansing of photography and soul; then stroll to Tiantai Mountain Poetry Road Cultural Digital Museum to experience Li Bai's fantastic journey through the Tang Dynasty; in the evening, the grandeur of Tiantai Mountain Waterfall and the night view of Shifeng Lake complement each other, marking a perfect end to the first day. Second Day: Visit Shiliang Waterfall, feel the harmonious coexistence of nature and ancient temples, and explore the tranquility of Guofang Temple; in the afternoon, embark on the return journey with full memories. Photography and Fun, Not to Be Missed Guoqing Temple: One of the four great temples in China, the tranquility of the thousand-year-old temple and the green fields create a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Tiantai Mountain Waterfall: The highest waterfall in China, the spectacular scene of water cascading down three thousand feet makes one recite ancient poems. Tiantai Mountain Poetry Road Cultural Digital Museum: The perfect blend of technology and culture, taking you back to Li Bai's prosperous Tang Dynasty. Shiliang Waterfall: A serene natural wonder, the essence of the Tang Poetry Road in eastern Zhejiang. Shifeng Lake Night Tour: An immersive boat experience, with water shows, mist, and projections creating a visual feast, feeling the unique cultural heritage of Tiantai. Conclusion: Tiantai Mountain, a sacred place that combines natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you are pursuing poetic footsteps or longing for peace of mind, this place can fulfill all your imaginations. How can you know the beauty of poetic charm without visiting Tiantai Mountain? Come for a spontaneous trip!

Retracing Xu Xiake's Eastern Zhejiang Route. At the foot of Tiantai Mountain lies Guoqing Temple, the ancestral court of the Tiantai Sect. In the original novel 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils,' it is mentioned that the eminent monk Zhizhe from the Sui Dynasty resided here, greatly promoting the Tiantai Sect. Guoqing Temple is one of China's four great temples, with a history of over 1,400 years. In 2015, after Tiantai Mountain, where it is located, was upgraded to a 5A scenic spot, the original 5 yuan ticket price for Guoqing Temple not only did not increase, but was completely abolished two years later, making it free to the public. In the serene and ancient environment, the temple is full of hidden mysteries. For example, the large bronze cauldron in front of the Mahavira Hall comes from the Forbidden City and was made by Emperor Qianlong to celebrate his mother's birthday. The pair of lions made of whole white marble in front of the temple were also selected from the Forbidden City as treasures to guard the temple. The path leading to the temple has rice fields on the left and forests on the right, with babbling streams and towering ancient trees. Every step here is like a painting, exuding the serene Zen atmosphere of the temple nestled in the mountains and waters. Although there is no entrance fee, the scenery here is no less impressive than other scenic spots, and it has a more rustic and natural charm. It is praised as China's most 'foolish' scenic spot. Here, a vegetarian meal costs only 2 yuan, and a night's stay is only 25 yuan. The monks in the temple still maintain a self-sufficient farming lifestyle. During busy farming seasons, it seems that every plant and tree here is filled with Zen. It is worth a visit to learn about the history, culture, and religious beliefs of Guoqing Temple...

🛕Let's start our self-driving journey in Taizhou. The first stop is Tiantai Mountain. Perhaps we were attracted by the beautiful verses in our textbooks when we were young, and because of the hidden secluded ancient temple here, this time we walk into Guoqing Temple, and I feel its extraordinariness. ————————— Name: Tiantai Guoqing Temple Address: Guoqing Scenic Area, Tiantai County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province Open: 07:00-16:00 Ticket: Free ————————— 🛕Guoqing Temple is truly a thousand-year-old ancient temple, built during the Sui Dynasty and preserved through multiple renovations. Its excellent geographical location makes this ancient temple hidden in the mountains, giving it a sense of seclusion. As a 5A-level scenic spot, it is surprisingly free to visit, showing sincerity and respect. 🌟Long History It has a history of more than 1,400 years and is also the birthplace of the Tiantai Sect. The traces of time can be seen in the architecture, and the strong historical evolution makes this thousand-year-old temple more historically rich and charming. 🌟Superior Environment Hidden in Tiantai Mountain, it has a unique seclusion quality. The environment is serene and built along the mountain, integrating the ancient temple into the natural scenery, rising layer by layer, indifferent to worldly affairs, with a fairy-like charm. 🌟Unique Architecture Multiple renovations have integrated classical and modern aesthetics into the architecture here. The low-saturation beauty of the temple gives it a sense of solemnity and simplicity. Walking through it, you will discover more architectural details, leaving you dazzled. 🌟Cultural Value Guoqing Temple gathers a large number of murals, stone carvings, wood carvings, and other artworks, with extremely high artistic value and historical significance. It is also the birthplace of the Tiantai Sect and a place for Sino-Japanese cultural exchanges. 🌟Secluded and Peaceful The original intention keeps it away from worldly affairs, with little commercial atmosphere, and it is sincerely open to the public for free. This is indeed a place suitable for quiet meditation, inner contemplation, peaceful rest, and sincere prayer. 🛕This time walking into Guoqing Temple, I was greatly shocked. The fact that such an ancient and secluded thousand-year-old temple can be passed down through the ages is what moved me. Walking through it, feeling the mountain air and the smoke, this unique charm truly attracts me. ⚠️Travel Tips: ❶Regarding transportation, self-driving is more convenient, directly locate the parking lot. Of course, there are also buses from the city to Tiantai Mountain, and you can take a taxi or walk to the temple after arriving. ❷Regarding the tour, there is no entrance fee, so you can proceed with peace of mind. It opens at 07:30 in the morning, and there are fewer people in the morning. The tour duration is about 2-3 hours. ❸Recommended attractions: Guoqing Tower, Mahavira Hall, Bell Tower and Drum Tower, Hall of Five Hundred Arhats, Hall of Three Saints, etc. ❹Regarding food, there is not much commercial activity or shopping, but there is a vegetarian hall where you can taste vegetarian food.

▪️ Guoqing Temple Opening Hours: 7am-4pm ▫️ Recommended Viewing Time: Opening at 7am is convenient for offering the first incense ▪️ Guoqing Temple Admission: Free ▫️ Guoqing Temple Tea Service: Free tea provided (at a tea break spot) ▪️ Guoqing Temple is nestled within the Guoqing Scenic Area, and as you walk in, you can see the Sui Dynasty Pagoda before reaching the temple itself. The Sui Dynasty Pagoda is not accessible for climbing, but you can admire the architectural structure and style at its base, although the exterior shows some damage. Inside Guoqing Temple, every step reveals a different scene, and the temple complex is vast. You can see the Mahavira Hall, Arhat Hall, Scripture Room, and other areas, with lotus flowers and hydrangeas lining the temple corridors. There is a life-release pond (seems to be called 'Fish Kingdom'), filled with many turtles and fish, offering a supremely comfortable atmosphere.

"If the temple prospers, the nation will be pure." Guoqing Temple has a long history, stands alone from the world, and is a place of great energy. Both inside and outside the temple, many ancient relics are preserved, which are simple and serene, making people feel calm and relaxed. 📍 Zhejiang Province, Taizhou City, Tiantai County 🎫: Free (Ferry car 2 yuan) 🚗: 15 minutes by taxi from Tiantai Mountain high-speed railway station Opening hours: 07:00-16:00

I have finally arrived at the Guoqing Temple on the other side of the Anywhere Door~ ✅✅ The birthplace of the Tiantai sect of Buddhism ✅✅ The ancestral temple of the Tiantai sect in Japan and Korea ✅✅ One of the four great temples of China ✅✅ A major national cultural heritage site ✅✅ Three wonders of the temple: the Sui Dynasty Pagoda, the Sui Dynasty Plum, and the Goose Character Stele ♻️♻️ Guoqing Temple, located in Chengguan Town, Tiantai County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, was originally named Tiantai Temple and was founded during the Sui Dynasty. Most of the existing buildings were reconstructed during the Qing Dynasty. It is known as one of the four great temples of China, along with Jinan Lingyan Temple, Nanjing Qixia Temple, and Dangyang Yuquan Temple. ♻️♻️ As the birthplace of the Tiantai sect of Buddhism in China, many famous monks have deep connections with this place, such as Master Yixing of the Tang Dynasty, Hanshan, Shide, Ji Gong, Kūkai the founder of Shingon Buddhism in Japan, and Saichō the founder of Tendai Buddhism in Japan. Guoqing Temple's influence extends both domestically and abroad, revered as the ancestral temple by the Tiantai sect in Japan and Korea. ♻️♻️ Main attractions: Sui Plum, Sui Pagoda, Steles, Bao'en Pagoda, Seven Buddhas Pagoda, Guanyin Hall, Yuhua Hall, Stream Westward, etc.~ ⛩️⛩️ Address: Guoqing Temple Village, Guochi Road, Tiantai County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province 🚙🚙 Transportation: All public transportation heading to Guoqing Scenic Area Station in Tiantai can reach the destination. If driving, you can park at the Guoqing Scenic Area parking lot and walk to the temple, or drive to the Tiantai Hotel in front of the temple for parking, which is more expensive. 💰💰 Admission: Free of charge