The Secret Buddhist Sanctuary of Jiangnan: Find Inner Peace at Jinhua Zhizhe Temple

📍 Temple Introduction Zhizhe Temple is located in Chisong Town, Jindong District, Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province. It was founded during the reign of Emperor Wu of the Southern Liang Dynasty (around 520 AD), with a history of over 1,500 years, making it one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Jinhua. The temple is built against a mountain, surrounded by a serene environment, blending Tang and Song architectural styles. It features solemn Buddha halls and beautiful natural scenery, making it an ideal place for worship, meditation, and sightseeing. --- 🚗 Transportation Guide - Self-driving: Navigate to "Jinhua Zhizhe Temple." There is a parking lot near the temple, making parking convenient. - Bus: From downtown Jinhua, take bus route You 7/Y7 to the "Zhizhe Temple" stop, then walk to the temple. - Taxi: About 20 minutes by taxi from Jinhua Station or downtown, costing approximately 30 yuan. --- 🎫 Tickets and Opening Hours - Tickets: Free admission (some special events or meditation experiences may charge fees). - Opening Hours: - Summer (April to October): 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM - Winter (November to March): 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM --- 🌟 Must-See Highlights 1. Hall of Heavenly Kings & Mahavira Hall - The Hall of Heavenly Kings enshrines Maitreya Buddha and the Four Heavenly Kings. The Mahavira Hall houses three golden Buddha statues, solemn and majestic, perfect for praying for blessings. 2. Millennium Ginkgo Tree (A must-see in autumn!) - The temple has a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree. In late autumn, its leaves turn golden and cover the ground, creating a fairyland-like Buddhist paradise, a perfect spot for photos. (Currently, it is lush and green, full of vitality, which also has its own charm.) 3. Life Release Pond & Bell and Drum Towers - The Life Release Pond has clear, tranquil water with swimming koi fish. The Bell and Drum Towers offer a chance to experience the Zen atmosphere of morning bells and evening drums. 4. Sutra Library & Meditation Hall - The Sutra Library houses Buddhist scriptures, and the Meditation Hall offers meditation experiences (advance reservation required). 5. Back Mountain Trail - There is a hiking trail on the temple’s back mountain, offering panoramic views of Jinhua city, ideal for hiking enthusiasts. --- 📸 Best Photo Spots - The square in front of the Mahavira Hall (grand architecture, great for wide-angle shots) - Under the millennium ginkgo tree (stunning golden leaves in autumn!) - By the Life Release Pond (reflections create a poetic atmosphere) - Back Mountain Viewing Platform (overlooking the entire Jinhua panorama) --- 🍜 Nearby Food Recommendations - Vegetarian Meal Experience: Zhizhe Temple offers vegetarian meals (please inquire in advance about availability). - Jinhua Specialty Snacks: - Jinhua Crispy Cake (filled with preserved mustard greens and meat, crispy and delicious) - Jinhua Ham (available at old shops in the city center) - Lanxi Chicken Rice Cake (available at nearby restaurants) --- 💡 Travel Tips 1. Best Seasons: Spring and autumn (March to May, October to November), especially autumn when the ginkgo leaves turn yellow. 2. Dress Code: The temple is solemn; dress appropriately (avoid short skirts and slippers). 3. Etiquette: - Do not step on door thresholds or make noise inside the halls. - Do not take photos of Buddha statues without permission. 4. Meditation Experience: For meditation or Dharma assembly participation, contact the temple in advance. --- 📌 Nearby Attractions - Chisong Huangdaixian Temple (a famous Taoist temple, about 10 minutes by car) - Shuanglong Cave Scenic Area (a famous karst cave in Jinhua, about 20 minutes by car) - Wuzhou Ancient City (a historic cultural district in Jinhua, great for strolling and eating) --- 🏨 Accommodation Guide: Jinhua Four Seasons Ruili Hotel With a prime location, convenient transportation, warm and attentive service, clean and tidy rooms, and great value for money, this quality hotel in Jinhua is the best choice for a comfortable vacation experience, ensuring a perfect rest after a day of sightseeing! --- Conclusion Zhizhe Temple is not only an ancient temple with a thousand years of history but also a pure land where the soul can find tranquility. Whether for worship and blessings, meditation, or sightseeing and photography, it offers a unique experience. When in Jinhua, don’t forget to visit Zhizhe Temple and feel the harmonious beauty of Zen and nature! 📷 Bring your camera and set off!📿