Guangxiao Temple

Guangzhou's oldest Buddhist temple, dating to the 4th century

Guangxiao Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Guangzhou, with a history stretching back to the 4th century. The Indian monk Huineng, the Sixth Patriarch of Chan (Zen) Buddhism, was ordained here in the 7th century, and the temple's Sixth Patriarch Hall commemorates this event. The complex includes an impressive collection of ancient iron pagodas and a large hall housing a standing Buddha. The grounds are peaceful and shaded by enormous banyan trees, offering a welcome break from the noise of Guangzhou's streets. The temple sits on Guangxiao Road in the Yuexiu district, a short walk from Ximenkou metro station.

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