Jiangxi is a central hub of Buddhist culture in China, where Buddhism has flourished significantly. Many influential Buddhist sects, such as the Pure Land School dominant in China and those prevalent in Japan and the West, trace their origins to Jiangxi. The region boasts numerous renowned temples. Here, we present a curated list of the top 10 famous temples in Jiangxi, highlighting their historical and cultural significance.
1. **Donglin Temple (Lushan)**
- **Established**: Eastern Jin Dynasty
Located in the scenic Lushan Mountain area, Donglin Temple is one of China's eight major Buddhist sites. With its grand architecture and serene environment, it houses many precious relics. It is revered by Japan's Pure Land School and is one of Jiangxi's three international Buddhist exchange centers.
2. **Youmin Temple (Nanchang)**
- **Established**: Liang Dynasty (Southern Dynasties)
A cradle of the Hongzhou Zen School, Youmin Temple has long been a pilgrimage site in East and Southeast Asia. As Nanchang's only fully preserved temple, its unique architecture exudes historical charm.
3. **Baofeng Temple (Jing'an County)**
- **Established**: Tang Dynasty (Tianbao Era)
With 24 halls and over 800 statues, Baofeng Temple features landmarks like the Nine - Dragon Wall and a liberation pond. Its deep ties to Bodhidharma, the Zen patriarch, attract many devotees.
4. **Huanglong Temple (Lushan)**
- **Established**: Ming Dynasty
Founded by Monk Shichekong, this temple is nestled against mountains and rivers. Legendary ancient trees, like the Bodhi and ginkgo, enhance its spiritual aura.
5. **Jingju Temple (Qingyuan Mountain)**
- **Established**: Tang Dynasty
A key Zen training ground, Jingju Temple is adorned with golden halls and rare scriptures. It was the meditation site of Zen Master Xingsi, a disciple of the Sixth Patriarch.
6. **Jiufeng Zen Temple (Moshang Mountain)**
- **Established**: Tang Dynasty
As the world's only Zen ancestral temple for female practitioners, Jiufeng Zen Temple blends stunning landscapes with ancient architecture, drawing visitors yearly.
7. **Guyan Temple (Shangrao)**
- **Established**: Tang Dynasty
One of Shangrao's oldest temples, Guyan Temple was once a grand monastic complex. Restored during the Qing Dynasty, it remains a site of cultural reverence.
8. **Yongning Temple**
- **Established**: Ming Dynasty (Wanli Era)
Spanning 100 acres, Yongning Temple thrives during Buddhist ceremonies. Its prosperity is linked to local economic vibrancy, with scenic backdrops like Wangwu Mountain.
9. **Baizhang Temple**
- **Established**: Unknown
Birthplace of Zen's "Pure Rules," Baizhang Temple was founded by Zen Master Dazhi. Many saints practiced here, cementing its status as a Zen ancestral site.
10. **Zhenru Temple (Yunju Mountain)**
- **Established**: Tang Dynasty
The cradle of the Caodong Zen School, Zhenru Temple is a nationally protected site. Its enduring legacy as a Zen patriarch temple ensures a steady stream of pilgrims.
