Nanhua Temple Shaoguan
A revered 6th-century Zen Buddhist monastery, home to Master Hui Neng and ancient relics, offering a profound spiritual and historical experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Nanhua Temple Shaoguan
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered 6th-century Zen Buddhist monastery, home to Master Hui Neng and ancient relics, offering a profound spiritual and historical experience.
"Highly recommend this sacred place. Master Huineng is legendary! If you are in Guangzhou and have a day to spare. Take the trip."
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early
Queues for high-speed train tickets can be long; buy round-trip tickets in advance. Bring your passport!
🚶♂️ Explore Slowly
The temple grounds are extensive. Allow 1.5-3 hours to fully appreciate the history and serenity.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Master Hui Neng's Gilded Image
Main Hall
See the revered gilded image of the legendary 6th Patriarch, a cornerstone of Zen Buddhism.
Ancient Buildings
Temple Grounds
Explore structures dating back to the Tang Dynasty, built during Master Hui Neng's time.
Spring of Collected Water
Rear of Temple
Witness locals collecting water from a spring, believed by some to have special properties.
Stupas of Masters
Temple Grounds
Visit the stupas housing the remains of Zen Masters Hui Neng and Hanshan, and Xuyun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Nanhua Temple
Understanding the Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early
Queues for high-speed train tickets can be long; buy round-trip tickets in advance. Bring your passport!
🚶♂️ Explore Slowly
The temple grounds are extensive. Allow 1.5-3 hours to fully appreciate the history and serenity.
6P's Temple, Nau Hua 南華寺
💧 Consider the Spring Water
Locals collect water from a spring; drink at your own risk if you choose to try it.
🛕 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly out of respect for this sacred Buddhist site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early
Queues for high-speed train tickets can be long; buy round-trip tickets in advance. Bring your passport!
🚶♂️ Explore Slowly
The temple grounds are extensive. Allow 1.5-3 hours to fully appreciate the history and serenity.
💧 Consider the Spring Water
Locals collect water from a spring; drink at your own risk if you choose to try it.
🛕 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly out of respect for this sacred Buddhist site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nanhua Temple is a highly recommended, sacred Zen Buddhist site with deep historical roots, particularly its connection to Master Hui Neng. Visitors appreciate the grandeur of the temple, the ancient architecture, and the spiritual atmosphere. However, it can get crowded, and some find the journey logistics, like ticket queues, a bit challenging.
"One of the main zen temple in China, at least 2 monks related to this over 1000year old temple. Grand temple, touristy spot but definitely worth a day of time. Half hour or 3 hours train ride from Guangzhou city depending on train type. Half hour by car to temple. RMB 20 for ticket to enter. There is a spring at the back of temple where people queue to collect water, I drank 100ml without issue. Beware of risk if considering to drink."
Marcus Goh
"Highly recommend this scared place. Master Huineng is legendary! If you are in Guangzhou and have a day to spare. Take the trip. There are two old buildings built by Master Huineng back in 1300 (Tang Dynasty). His body is also in this temple. The compound is quite big, and it took about 1.5 hours to slowly explore. Entrance fee at RMB20.
Took an hour high-speed train from Guangzhou Nan Station to Shaoguang Station, follow by 25mins taxi ride directly to the temple. Remember to have your passport with you when you buy high-speed train tickets. Go early to queue, took me at least an hour to buy. I bought two-way tickets as i didn't want to quene again at Shaoguang. Check the train schedule online first."
Livvy Tan
"Buddhist master Huineng gilded image keeping in Nanhua temple almost 1300years, wonderful 🙏"
Chris Wong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take a high-speed train from Guangzhou Nan Station to Shaoguan Station (approx. 1 hour). From Shaoguan Station, a taxi or bus will take you to Nanhua Temple (about 25-30 minutes).
Yes, taxis are generally available at Shaoguan Station. It's a direct ride to the temple.
While taxis are common, local buses may also be an option from Shaoguan city center. Check local transport schedules upon arrival.
The total travel time, including train and taxi, can range from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on train type and connections.
Yes, you will need your passport to purchase high-speed train tickets in China.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically RMB 20 per person. +1
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or online for the most current times.
Online ticket purchasing options are not commonly mentioned. It's best to be prepared to buy tickets upon arrival.
It can be a touristy spot, especially on weekends and holidays. Visiting on weekdays or early in the morning can help avoid the largest crowds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the temple grounds at a leisurely pace.
Yes, Nanhua Temple is an active monastery, and you may see monks around the grounds.
Master Hui Neng is the 6th Patriarch of the Chan School of Buddhism and is considered one of the most important figures in Zen history.
While some locals collect and drink the water, it's advisable to be cautious and consider the risks.
Yes, the temple offers many picturesque spots with its ancient architecture and serene atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options directly within the temple are limited. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit in Shaoguan or bring snacks.
Expect local Chinese cuisine in Shaoguan. Vegetarian options might be available, especially near religious sites.
Generally, bringing food and drinks is acceptable, but be mindful of disposing of your trash properly to maintain the sanctity of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for kids, consider bringing some light snacks and water, as dining options within the temple are limited. Ensure children are dressed respectfully and understand the need for quiet contemplation in certain areas. The journey itself, especially the high-speed train, can be an exciting part of the adventure for younger travelers.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
Consider arriving early to experience the temple in its most tranquil state. Engage with the spiritual significance of the site by observing rituals if possible and seeking moments of quiet contemplation. The spring water, though to be consumed with caution, is seen by many as a symbol of purity and renewal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Master Hui Neng
Exploring the temple allows you to walk in the footsteps of this influential figure. You can see the gilded image of Master Hui Neng and visit the stupas that house his remains, offering a profound connection to Buddhist history. The temple's architecture itself, with buildings dating back to the Tang Dynasty, provides a tangible link to the era when Hui Neng expounded his teachings.
Many visitors are drawn to Nanhua Temple not just for its historical importance but for its serene atmosphere and spiritual resonance. The presence of active monks and the ongoing practice of Buddhism contribute to a living tradition. It's a place where one can experience a sense of peace and contemplation, away from the hustle of modern life.
Navigating Your Journey to Nanhua Temple
Upon arrival at Shaoguan Station, the final stretch to Nanhua Temple is a relatively short 25-30 minute taxi ride. While local buses might be an option, taxis offer a more direct and convenient way to reach the temple, especially if you're on a tighter schedule. Planning your return journey by purchasing round-trip train tickets from Shaoguan back to Guangzhou can save you time and hassle later.
Travelers emphasize the importance of checking train schedules beforehand and factoring in potential waiting times for tickets. The overall travel time from Guangzhou can range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the specific train and connection times. Being prepared with your passport and having a clear plan for the onward journey from Shaoguan will ensure a smoother experience.
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