Location & Transportation

Puwang Tiannan Tuo Hall, the front hall of Nanputuo Temple, sits at No. 515, Siming South Road in Xiamen, Fujian Province. It’s nestled at the foot of Wulai Peak (the “Five Old Men Peaks”) and faces the crystal-clear Xiamen Harbor. To get here, take Bus 1, 45, or 87 to the Nanputuo Station—you’ll spot the temple’s yellow rooftops from afar. For a scenic route, walk along the Siming South Road, which connects Xiamen University’s campus to the temple.

Natural Scenery

The temple’s setting is pure magic. Imagine towering mountains on one side and glittering seawater on the other. At dawn, the sun rises over the harbor, casting gold light on the temple’s roof, while evenings bring a cooling breeze and stunning sunsets. Nearby, Wulai Peak offers hiking trails with panoramic views of Xiamen’s skyline and ocean. Even on busy days, the temple’s courtyard feels calm—a mix of rustling bamboo, chanting monks, and the distant crash of waves.

Cultural & Historical Highlights

Puwang Tiannan Tuo Hall is the heart of Nanputuo Temple, built in the late Tang Dynasty (around AD 900) and renamed during the Song and Qing periods. Its name, “Southern PuTuo,” comes from its similarity to Mount Putuo in Zhejiang, China’s top Buddhist site. Inside the hall, you’ll find the Four Heavenly Kings statues (symbolizing wind, rain, thunder, and prosperity) and a Guanyin statue famous for blessing those seeking children. Legend says couples who pray here often welcome little ones soon after!

The temple also houses two treasures: a Blood-Written Lotus Sutra from the Ming Dynasty (monks painstakingly copied it in blood) and a white porcelain Guanyin sculpture by He Chaozong, a master artisan. These artifacts draw art and history lovers from around the world.

Facilities for Visitors

Nanputuo Temple is visitor-friendly. The entrance is free, though donations are welcome. Inside, you’ll find:

  • Rest areas with chairs and shade.
  • A vegetarian restaurant serving Buddha’s Delight (a mix of tofu, mushrooms, and veggies).
  • Souvenir shops selling incense, prayer beads, and local teas.
  • Clean restrooms near the main hall.

Note: Dress modestly (no shorts or tank tops) and remove shoes when entering the main halls.

What to Expect During Your Visit

At Puwang Tiannan Tuo Hall, the energy shifts from serene to lively. In the morning, monks chant sutras, and smoke curls from incense burners. Tourists queue to rub the Bai Su Zhen Ren (White Robe True Man) statue for luck, while others light candles at the Guanyin Shrine. On weekends, the hall buzzes with families, students, and elderly groups practicing tai chi in the courtyard.

A personal tip: Visit early (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds. If you’re into photography, the hall’s red lanterns and golden Buddha statues contrast beautifully with the green hills behind them. For a deeper experience, join a free guided tour (check the schedule near the entrance) to learn about Buddhist rituals and the temple’s legends.

Whether you’re here for spirituality, history, or Instagram-worthy shots, Puwang Tiannan Tuo Hall offers a glimpse into Xiamen’s soul—where mountains meet the sea, and ancient faith meets modern life.