China Travel logoChina Travel
ancient-jiming-temple-nanjing

Ancient Jiming Temple

The Ancient Jiming Temple, a millennium-old Buddhist sanctuary in Nanjing, stands as a testament to China's rich religious and cultural heritage. First established in 300 CE during the Western Jin Dynasty, this temple has witnessed the ebb and flow of Chinese history through multiple dynasties.

Historical Significance

Originally built as a modest meditation retreat on Chicken Coop Mountain (now Jiming Temple Mountain), the temple gained prominence during the Southern Dynasties period. In 527 CE, Emperor Wu of Liang transformed it into the grand Tongtai Temple, making it the most prestigious among the "480 Temples of the Southern Dynasties."

Jiming Temple and sunset

Throughout its history, the temple has endured multiple cycles of destruction and reconstruction:

  • Destroyed during the Hou Jing Rebellion in 549 CE
  • Rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty in 1387 by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang
  • Renovated during the Qing Dynasty's Kangxi period
  • Damaged during the Taiping Rebellion
  • Restored in the late 19th century
  • Renovated and reopened in 1985

Temple Architecture

The temple complex features several notable structures:

Main Hall (Mahavira Hall)

Houses three Buddha statues representing different aspects of Buddha's manifestation. The hall's architecture showcases traditional Chinese craftsmanship with its intricate wooden carvings and painted beams.

Avalokitesvara Pavilion

Features a unique "reverse-seated" Guanyin statue facing north, accompanied by the famous couplet: "Ask why the Bodhisattva sits reversed; Sigh that people refuse to turn back."

Jiming Temple exterior wall and pedestrians

Medicine Buddha Pagoda

  • Seven-story octagonal structure
  • Height: 44 meters
  • Houses a Ming Dynasty bronze statue of the Medicine Buddha
  • Offers panoramic views of Xuanwu Lake

Historical Relics

Rouge Well

The historic Rouge Well (Yanzhi Jing) carries a dramatic story from the fall of the Chen Dynasty in 589 CE. According to legend, Emperor Chen Shubao and his consorts Zhang Lihua and Kong Guipin hid in this well when Sui forces captured the city. The well got its name from the rouge that stained its walls when they were discovered.

Master Baozhi's Tomb

Located in the temple's rear garden, this tomb honors the respected Chan master Baozhi from the Liang Dynasty, who was highly regarded by Emperor Wu of Liang.

Trees at Jiming Temple

Seasonal Highlights

Spring

The temple is famous for its cherry blossoms, creating a stunning pink canopy along the temple's entrance path.

Summer

Lotus flowers bloom in the nearby Xuanwu Lake, offering a classic view of Buddhist temple scenery.

Autumn

Golden ginkgo leaves carpet the temple grounds, creating a magical atmosphere.

Winter

Snow-covered temple roofs and winter plum blossoms provide a serene winter landscape.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

  • Regular days: 7:30 - 17:00 (Last entry 16:50)
  • 1st and 15th of lunar month: 5:30 - 17:30 (Last entry 16:50)

Admission

  • Adult ticket: ¥10
  • Purchase options:
    • On-site ticket office
    • Official WeChat account (recommended to avoid queues)

Transportation

  1. Metro:

    • Line 3 or Line 4 to Jiming Temple Station
    • Exit 5, walk 600 meters

  2. Bus Routes:

    • Routes 2, 3, 31, 44, 52, 70
    • Alight at Taiping North Road - Jiming Temple Station

Visitor Guidelines

Etiquette

  1. Dress modestly - avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing
  2. Maintain silence in temple halls
  3. No photography inside the main halls
  4. Remove hats when entering halls
  5. Follow the designated one-way route (enter from south gate, exit from north gate)

Photography Spots

  1. "Buddha" character wall near the incense area
  2. Hilltop view of the temple gates and roofs
  3. North exit corner pavilion overlooking the city wall
  4. Main Hall front plaza with modern Zifeng Tower backdrop

Best Times to Visit

  • Early morning on weekdays for fewer crowds
  • Spring for cherry blossoms
  • Autumn for ginkgo leaves
  • Avoid peak hours during Buddhist festivals and holidays

Tips

  1. Visit early morning to avoid crowds
  2. Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit
  3. Combine with visits to nearby Xuanwu Lake and Ming City Wall
  4. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the temple is built on a hill
  5. Check the weather forecast as many areas are outdoors

The Ancient Jiming Temple remains one of Nanjing's most important Buddhist temples and a popular destination for both worshippers and tourists. Its blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and spiritual atmosphere makes it a must-visit site in Nanjing.