Huayan Temple of Chongqing

Welcome to Huayan Temple, a site of profound spiritual and aesthetic beauty often referred to as the 'First Scenic Spot in Western Chongqing.' Nestled in the Huayan Scenic Area, this temple complex is a jewel of the Ming and Qing…

Our journey begins at the Mountain Gate, the traditional entrance that separates the 'profane' world from the 'sacred' space of the temple. The gate is a grand structure with three openings, symbolizing the 'Three Jewels' of…

The first major building we encounter is the Hall of Heavenly Kings. Inside, you are greeted by the four massive, brightly painted statues of the Heavenly Kings, each guarding one of the cardinal directions. …

At the center of the complex lies the Grand Hall of Great Sage, the spiritual heart of the temple. This is the largest and most ornate building, housing the main altar dedicated to the Shakyamuni Buddha. …

Behind the main hall stands the Jade Buddha Tower, a relatively modern addition that houses a magnificent statue carved from a single piece of white Burmese jade. This tower also serves as the temple's scriptural library (Sutra…

No visit to Huayan Temple is complete without exploring the Seven-Story Pagoda and the namesake 'Huayan Cave.' The pagoda is a striking landmark that offers views over the Twin Lakes and the surrounding temple grounds. Each level…

We conclude our visit at the Temple’s Vegetarian Refectory and the adjacent Tea Garden. In Buddhist culture, eating and drinking tea are seen as forms of meditation. …

Our journey through Huayan Temple has taken us from the vibrant lotuses of the lake to the golden silence of the Grand Hall and the scholarly quiet of the Jade Buddha Tower. We have experienced a side of Chongqing that is…