Location & Transportation

Qixia Temple, nestled in the Qixia Mountain Scenic Area, lies in the northeast of Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. The temple’s address is No. 88 Xia Street, Qixia District, near Qixia Avenue. To get there, take Bus 206 or 326 to Qixia Mountain Station, or drive along Qixia Avenue—parking is available near the entrance. For a scenic approach, hike up the mountain trail, which offers glimpses of maple forests and historic pavilions along the way.

Natural Beauty: A Autumn Red Maple Paradise

Qixia Mountain bursts into life every autumn, when its 40,000+ maple trees transform into a fiery landscape of red, orange, and gold. Wander through the Maple Corridor, where sunlight filters through leaves, creating a dreamy, Instagram-worthy glow. Even outside peak season, the temple’s setting—surrounded by lush hills and cherry blossoms in spring—makes it a year-round retreat. Don’t miss the Linggu Pool, a serene pond reflecting temple halls and weeping willows.

Cultural Highlights: Buddhist History & Art

Qixia Temple: A Buddhist Jewel

As one of China’s Four Great Ancient Temples, Qixia Temple has been a spiritual hub since the Southern Dynasties (484–502 AD). It’s the birthplace of Jiangnan’s Three Treatise School of Buddhism, earning recognition as a national key temple in 1983. The temple’s layout—three courtyards rising with the mountain slope—blends harmony with grandeur.

Key Treasures

  • Sarira Stupa: A 15m-tall, 8-sided stone tower from the Southern Tang Dynasty, making it one of the oldest stupas south of the Yangtze River. Its base features carved ocean waves and mythical creatures, while the tower’s weathered elegance speaks to over a millennium of history.
  • Grand Buddha Hall: Home to a 10.8m-tall Amitabha Buddha statue from the Southern Qi Dynasty. Flanked by elegant Guanyin and Trendarmati, the trio’s robes mirror the style of Cloud Gate Grottoes in Datong. Nearby, two smaller guiding Buddhas (3m tall) resemble sculptures from the Longmen Grottoes.
  • Thousand-Buddha Rock: Nanjing’s only Southern Dynasty grotto, dubbed “Jiangnan’s Cloud Gate.” The Amitayus Buddha niche here predates Cloud Gate by 17 years, showcasing early Buddhist art with fluid, timeless grace.

Exploring Further: Halls & Relics

Stroll through the Vairāsana Hall and Sutra Library, where incense coils and chants create a meditative atmosphere. The No-Measure Hall, the largest grotto in Thousand-Buddha Rock, hosts three perfectly balanced statues of Amitayus, Guanyin, and Trendarmati. Their robes’ folds echo Cloud Gate’s style, yet these pre-date that famous site, offering a rare glimpse of early Buddhist artistry.

Practical Tips: Visiting Qixia Temple

  • Opening Hours: Daily 7:00 AM–5:30 PM (seasonal changes apply).
  • Entrance Fee: Adults ¥25 (includes mountain access); discounts for students/seniors.
  • Guided Tours: English-speaking guides are available for hire (recommended for deep historical insights).
  • Dining: Try temple cuisine at the on-site vegetarian restaurant, or bring a picnic to enjoy by Linggu Pool.
  • Souvenirs: Pick up maple-themed crafts or Buddhist beads at the gift shop near the entrance.

A Day to Remember

Visiting Qixia Temple feels like stepping into a living museum. Start at the Sarira Stupa, climb to the Grand Buddha Hall, then lose yourself in Thousand-Buddha Rock’s carvings. Time your trip for autumn to see maple leaves framing ancient stonework, or visit in spring for cherry blossoms. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or photography enthusiast, Qixia Temple offers layers of beauty and tranquility rarely found in one place. Pack comfortable shoes, charge your camera, and prepare for a journey through time—both natural and spiritual.