South Putuo Temple (Nanputuo Temple)

South Putuo Temple is one of the top attractions in Xiamen. Most city sightseeing tours include an English-speaking guide and transportation and will include a stop at the temple, along with other highlights such as Gulangyu Island, Hulishan Fortress, and Shuzhuang Garden. It’s also easy to visit South Putuo Temple independently. Don’t miss a meal at the temple’s vegetarian restaurant, and if time permits, hike up Wulaofeng mountain behind the temple for sweeping views over Xiamen and the sea.

• There’s no entrance fee to enter South Putuo Temple.

• Visitors should be respectful of worshippers and avoid revealing clothing, as this is an active place of worship.

• You can dine at the vegetarian restaurant within the temple complex.

• The temple is not accessible for people using wheelchairs as there are numerous steps around the complex.

South Putuo Temple is located in the Siming District at the southern end of Xiamen. Numerous buses stop nearby at Xiamen University, and it’s a short walk from the university to the temple. Taxis are also an easy way to reach the temple. Many city sightseeing tours also stop at the temple and include hotel transfers.

The temple is open daily, year-round, with the outer mountain gate open from very early in the morning to evening with the inner mountain gate closing a bit earlier. Plan to spend at least one hour exploring the expansive complex. Visit on February 19, June 19, and September 19 to see ceremonies celebrating Guanyin.

After visiting South Putuo Temple, walk a short distance to Xiamen University to explore its beautiful campus and architecture. Then, learn about Xiamen’s military history and admire the sea views at Hulishan Fortress, south of the university. Also nearby is Xiamen Botanical Garden, a massive park with thousands of flowers, along with lakes, ponds, and temples.