Kaifu Temple is one of the oldest and most historically significant Buddhist temples in Hunan, founded in 927 AD during the Five Dynasties period. The temple is named for the historical title of its founder, the ruler of the Ma-Chu kingdom, and has been continuously rebuilt and restored across eleven centuries of wars, fires, and political disruptions. The current buildings date primarily from Qing dynasty restorations, with significant sections reconstructed after damage during the Cultural Revolution.
The temple complex covers several hectares in the northern part of the old city and contains four main halls, a drum tower, a bell tower, and extensive monastic buildings. The main hall houses a large gilded statue of the Maitreya Buddha and a collection of bronze Buddha figures donated by overseas Chinese communities. The temple is active and well-maintained; monks conduct regular ceremonies. Entry costs around ¥10. The temple is within walking distance of the Changsha Martyrs Park and accessible by metro.