Tai Zhou • Tiantai "If the temple thrives, the country will be peaceful"

**Tiantai Guoqing Temple Travel Guide** **I. Introduction** Tiantai Guoqing Temple, located in the Tiantai Mountain scenic area in Zhejiang Province, is the birthplace of the Tiantai school of Chinese Buddhism and has a profound historical and cultural heritage. Initially built during the Sui Dynasty, the temple boasts a long history, ancient simplicity, and solemn atmosphere, making it an excellent destination for pilgrimage and tourism. **II. Features** 1. **Ancient Architecture**: Guoqing Temple preserves a large number of buildings from the Sui and Tang Dynasties, such as the Daxiong Hall and the bell tower, showcasing the unique charm of ancient architecture. 2. **Buddhist Culture**: As the birthplace of the Tiantai school, Guoqing Temple has a rich Buddhist culture. The Buddha statues enshrined in the temple are solemn and sacred, inspiring reverence. 3. **Natural Landscape**: Guoqing Temple is surrounded by a tranquil environment with beautiful mountains and clear waters. The temple complements the natural landscape, forming a unique blend of nature and culture. **III. Travel Advice** 1. **Best Time to Visit**: Spring and autumn are the recommended seasons for visiting, as the climate is pleasant, allowing you to fully appreciate the ancient simplicity and tranquility of Guoqing Temple. 2. **Transportation**: You can take public transportation to Tiantai and then transfer to local transportation to reach Guoqing Temple. If you are driving, please pay attention to traffic rules and road conditions. 3. **Visiting Etiquette**: Please respect the religious beliefs and regulations of the temple. Dress appropriately, avoid loud conversations, and do not touch cultural relics. **IV. Food Recommendations** 1. **Tiantai Tofu**: As a local specialty, Tiantai tofu has a delicate texture and is delicious when paired with local seasonings and cooking methods. 2. **Wild Delicacies**: Around Guoqing Temple, you can taste a variety of wild delicacies, such as wild mushrooms and vegetables, which are known for their fresh flavors. In short, Tiantai Guoqing Temple is a tourist destination that integrates natural scenery, cultural landscapes, and Buddhist culture. It is worth a visit for both pilgrimage and sightseeing.