Location & Transportation

Jinming Temple sits in a prime coastal spot in Xiamen’s Siming District, right next to the scenic Rim Island Road (Huandao Lu). The address is No. 4 Huangcuo Xitou Xia—easy to find if you’re exploring the Rim Island Area. It’s a short walk from Huangcuo Beach and just a 15-minute bike ride from Baijia Village. If you’re coming by bus, lines 874 or 18 cover the area. For a stunning view, note that the temple faces Kinmen Island in Taiwan across the water—a unique symbol of geographic connection!

Natural Scenery: Sea, Sky, and Sunrise

Perched by the coast, Jinming Temple offers some of Xiamen’s most breathtaking views. The temple’s front door opens to a rocky beach where waves crash against the shore, especially dramatic during typhoon season. Sunrise and sunset are magical here—the light reflects off the sea and Kinmen’s distant hills, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Nearby, Wuyuan Bay and Ganquanpu Park extend the coastal beauty, perfect for post-temple strolls.

Cultural & Historical Vibes

This temple isn’t just about scenery—it’s steeped in history. Built in the Qing Dynasty (around 1875–1908), Jinming Temple started as a Taoist site before becoming a Buddhist hub. Fires, wars, and rebuilding campaigns shaped its story. In the 1920s, a wealthy merchant funded repairs, while during WWII, the temple barely survived artillery. Today, its tangdynasty-style architecture—with towering eaves, wooden carvings, and a five-story main hall—feels both grand and peaceful. The top floor, Daxiong Hall, hosts giant Buddha statues, while lower floors house shrines for Ksitigarbha and Guanyin. A must-see: the old plaque bearing the phrase “Divine Inspiration” from the Qing era.

Facilities & Architecture

The temple complex is designed for exploration. Enter through the traditional Chinese gate (山门) and cross a koi pond (放生池) meant for freeing animals. Bell and drum towers (钟楼, 鼓楼) flank the path, which leads to the main hall. Inside, you’ll find:

  • Three-story inner courtyard with rooms for monks, guests, and storage.
  • Five-tiered main hall: Start at the ground level’s Ksitigarbha Hall, climb to Guanyin’s pavilion, then reach the top for Daxiong Hall’s golden Buddhas.
  • Stone-carved windows and classic roof tiles that blend Tang dynasty elegance with ocean breezes.

Visiting Experience: Peace & Reflection

Visiting Jinming Temple feels like stepping into a quieter world. Unlike Xiamen’s busier spots, few tourists come here, making it ideal for meditation or quiet walks. Monks might chant in the morning, and incense smoke swirls through the air. Don’t miss the coastal trail behind the temple—it connects to longer hikes along Rim Island Road. Bring a camera for the sea views, but also respect the sacred space: dress modestly, remove shoes when entering halls, and avoid loud conversations.

Tips & Extras

  • Best time to visit: Early morning (for sunrise) or late afternoon (for sunset). Avoid noontime heat.
  • Food: Try the vegetarian meals served in the temple’s simple dining hall.
  • Souvenirs: Buy Buddhist beads or calligraphy scrolls from the small shop—great conversation starters!
  • Combine with: After your visit, rent a bike and ride to Ma’an Mountain or take the ferry to Gulangyu Island for more island vibes.

Jinming Temple isn’t just a historic site—it’s a window into Xiamen’s soul, where nature, faith, and resilience meet. Whether you’re into photography, history, or simply seeking tranquility, this coastal gem deserves a spot on your itinerary.