Discover China | Niushou Mountain - A Perfect Blend of Zen and Art

Located in Jiangning District of Nanjing, Niushou Mountain got its name from its east and west peaks resembling ox horns. Also known as "Tianque Mountain," it is one of the four famous scenic spots in Jinling and has earned the reputation of "Spring Niushou." Its history can be traced back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty when Emperor Yuan of Jin regarded Niushou Mountain as "Tianque" (Heavenly Gateway), using its natural mountain formation instead of artificial stone gateways, making it a cultural symbol of Nanjing. Since the Tang Dynasty, Niushou Mountain has been listed as a sacred Buddhist mountain and is the birthplace of the Niutou Chan (Zen) School. In 2015, it became a new world Buddhist cultural heritage site for housing Buddha's skull bone relic. As the core architecture of Niushou Mountain, the Buddha's Top Palace, built on an abandoned quarry, houses the Buddha's skull bone relic. Its exterior design combines the elements of kasaya (monk's robe) and hair bun, while its dome incorporates modern lighting technology to create a profound Zen space. The interior includes the Thousand Buddha Hall, Ten Thousand Buddha Gallery, and the Sarira Treasury, showcasing the pinnacle of Buddhist art. In the Zen View Gallery, a full copper statue of the reclining Buddha Shakyamuni can rotate 360 degrees, combined with a sound and light show to present the realm of nirvana.