- Introduction: Explore the Beauty and History of the Vishnu Temple in Nanjing, China
- History of the Pilu Temple
- Architecture and Atmosphere of the Pilu Temple
- Guanyin Buddha Statue
- Visiting the Pilu Temple
- Conclusion
Introduction: Explore the Beauty and History of the Pilu Temple in Nanjing, China
Located in Hanfu Street, Xuanwu District (汉府街4号毗卢寺), Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, the Pilu Temple (毗卢寺), is dedicated to the Viroccana Buddha, the supreme deity of Tantric Buddhism. The temple is renowned for its immense merit and virtue in expounding the secret essence of the Buddha’s heart, repenting of karmic obstacles, accumulating the sustenance of good fortune, and promoting the Buddha’s teachings for the benefit of the nation and the people.
History of the Pilu Temple
Pilu Temple is one of the largest Buddhist practice grounds in China, located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. The temple was built during the Ming Dynasty and took around 44 years to complete (1522-1566). Visitors can purchase a ticket to light incense and offer prayers, as well as tie red ribbons for blessings. The temple grounds are adorned with red and gold colours and feature a three-story high white Guanyin Buddha statue in the centre of the gardens. Visitors can also climb the pagoda for a panoramic view of the temple and the surrounding area.
Architecture and Atmosphere of the Pilu Temple
The Pilu Temple‘s architecture is breathtaking, with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. The temple is open to visitors and provides a unique experience to witness the beauty of Chinese architecture and Buddhist culture. The temple is surrounded by a square and is easily accessible by public transportation.
Guanyin Buddha Statue
In front of the Manbul building, there is a statue of Guanyin Buddha. The statue is 8 meters high from the ground to the top, and it is said that the stone of the statue alone weighs more than 150 tons. The statue of the Goddess of Mercy has a graceful body and a kind face. Unlike the general Buddha statue that sits with hands together and knees crossed, this statue stands on the left knee and bends the right leg, which looks very comfortable. The word “Guanyin” was translated by the Tang monk Xuanzang and means “Goddess of Mercy”. In front of the statue are three female and one male ginkgo trees, two of which are said to have been planted by Zeng Guozhuo himself.
Visiting the Pilu Temple
Spring and fall are magical times to visit the Pilu Temple, with the blooming flowers and changing colours of the leaves creating a breathtaking atmosphere. The temple is open daily from 8 am to 4:30 pm, and visitors are welcome to join the morning and evening chanting sessions held daily.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Pilu Temple is an excellent destination for those seeking history, culture, and serenity. The temple’s rich history and breathtaking architecture, coupled with its serene atmosphere, make it an ideal place to learn about Chinese Buddhism and culture. Visitors can experience the magic of the Pilu Temple for themselves and witness the beauty of Chinese architecture and culture. With its breathtaking beauty and rich history, this hidden gem is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. So why not add it to your travel itinerary and experience the magic of this magnificent temple for yourself? Remember this temple is also covered by the Nanjing Annual Card.
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You can find more Ideas for Travelling in this new Section of my Homepage.
This post is also one of my new series about Nanjing. Go back to the post: Capturing Nanjing’s Best Photographic Spots for Instagram and TikTok: A Guide for Creators. (coming soon)
If you’re looking additionally for tips or information on ultra-wide-angle lenses for your photography or vlogging, I just published a guide to Ultra-Wide Angle Lenses for Sony APS-C.
