Taizhou Tourism | Guoqing Temple: A Yearly Pilgrimage

Guoqing Temple is a familiar name to many, renowned as a "true millennium-old temple." Originally named Tiantai Temple, it was founded in the 18th year of the Kaihuang era of the Sui Dynasty (598 AD) and later renamed Guoqing Temple, meaning "when the temple is complete, the country will be at peace." The temple covers an area of 73,000 square meters. Historically, the eminent Sui Dynasty monk, Zhiyi, founded the Tiantai school of Buddhism at Guoqing Temple, making it the birthplace of this Chinese Buddhist sect. The existing buildings were reconstructed under imperial decree in the 12th year of the Yongzheng era of the Qing Dynasty (1734 AD). Within the temple grounds, you can trace the footsteps of renowned monks such as Tang Dynasty astronomer Yi Xing, Hanshan, Shide, and Ji Gong. Unlike other ancient temples, Guoqing Temple offers a sanctuary for shedding worries and finding inner peace. Far from the hustle and bustle of the world, it features simple yellow walls nestled amidst lush greenery, filled with the fragrance of flowers and incense. Every step reveals a new vista, embodying the serene charm of a "hidden temple in the deep mountains." It compels visitors to slow down, hold their breath, and experience a moment of tranquility and liberation. Entrance - Sui Pagoda - Seven Buddha Pagoda - Hanshi Pavilion - "Jiao Guan Zong Chi" Wall - "Water Flows Westward Here" - "Sui Dynasty Ancient Temple" Screen Wall - Mountain Gate - White Marble Lions - Shanmen Hall - Maitreya Hall - Bell and Drum Towers - Yuhua Hall - Mahavira Hall - Plum Pavilion (Sui Plum) - Medicine Master Hall - "Faru Qianqiu" Pavilion - Guanyin Hall - China-Korea Patriarchs Memorial Pagoda - Scripture Pillar - Three Sages Hall - Sutra Repository - Cultural Relics Room - Arhat Hall - Garan Hall - Three Saints Hall - "Solitary Goose" Stele - Fish Paradise.