Famen Temple
Famen Temple, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site, houses a revered finger bone relic of Gautama Buddha within its ancient pagoda and modern complex.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the sacred finger bone relic.
Famen Temple
Best Time
See the sacred finger bone relic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Famen Temple, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site, houses a revered finger bone relic of Gautama Buddha within its ancient pagoda and modern complex.
"Witness the sacred 'true relic' of Buddha, a finger bone, housed in an intricate set of ancient boxes. "
Book a Translator/Guide
Essential for understanding the history if you don't speak Chinese. :microphone:
Try the Monk Meal
Enjoy a unique culinary experience, especially the fried eggplant dish! :fried_shrimp:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Buddha's Finger Bone Relic
Underground Palace
Witness the sacred 'true relic' of Buddha, a finger bone, housed in an intricate set of ancient boxes.
Ancient Pagoda
Temple Grounds
Marvel at the towering pagoda, a key feature of this historic Buddhist site, offering a glimpse into ancient architecture.
Museums
Adjacent to the Temple
Explore three nearby museums showcasing artifacts and history related to the temple and its discoveries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Famen Temple
Understanding the Relics and Reconstruction
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a Translator/Guide
Essential for understanding the history if you don't speak Chinese. :microphone:
Try the Monk Meal
Enjoy a unique culinary experience, especially the fried eggplant dish! :fried_shrimp:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this sacred religious site. :pray:
Explore the Museums
Don't miss the three museums for deeper historical context. :classical_building:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a Translator/Guide
Essential for understanding the history if you don't speak Chinese. :microphone:
Try the Monk Meal
Enjoy a unique culinary experience, especially the fried eggplant dish! :fried_shrimp:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this sacred religious site. :pray:
Explore the Museums
Don't miss the three museums for deeper historical context. :classical_building:
Kneel Towards Temple
Follow the tradition of kneeling every few steps as a sign of devotion. :person_kneeling:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Famen Temple is a historically significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, lauded for housing a sacred relic of Buddha. Visitors appreciate the ancient pagoda, the museums, and the unique monk-style dining experience. However, some find the modern reconstruction of the temple complex less authentic than traditional sites, and English guidance can be limited.
"From 5–12 May 1987, after the opening of an underground palace, four relics claimed to be directly related to Buddha were found. Two of these were made of white jade. The third relic was from a famous monk. These three are called "duplicate relics" (影骨). They were placed together with a "true relic" (靈骨) in order to protect them. The true relic is yellow-colored, with bone-like secretory granules. It is believed to be a finger bone of the Gautama Buddha (Sakyamuni). Thereafter, Famen Temple became a Buddhist place of pilgrimage due to the discovery of what is claimed as a true relic of Buddha.
The finger bone was preserved in the innermost box in a set of eight boxes, each of which encloses the next-smallest box wrapped in a layer of thin silk. The outermost box was in sandalwood and had rotted away, but the smaller boxes were in gold, some in silver, and one in jade, and are in a good state of preservation. Each box has a silver lock and was exquisitely carved.
The true relic is exactly the same as the description by the Tang dynasty Buddhist DaoXuan and other Tang dynasty records."
Honor
"Interesting site, it looks like a lot of modern statues and buildings were built on top of the original site. We also paid for the Buddhist monk style meal which had an amazing fried aubergine/eggplant dish. Look to book a translator or guide device."
Crimsonpig101
"The old temple is beautiful and three museums nearby are definitely worth the visit. Not too sure about the new developed temple. It looks too modern and not Buddhist temple like?!"
David Chin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Xi'an's West Bus Station to Famen Temple. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Taxis or private car hires are also options for a more direct route.
Yes, public buses regularly run from Xi'an to Famen Temple, making it accessible for independent travelers.
A day trip from Xi'an is feasible. Consider an early start via bus or private car to maximize your time at the temple and its museums.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, but it's advisable to check the latest prices before your visit. Consider purchasing tickets that include access to the museums.
The 'true relic' is displayed on specific days. It's crucial to inquire about the display schedule in advance to ensure you visit when it's accessible.
Opening hours can change seasonally. It's best to confirm the current operating times on the official website or by contacting the temple directly before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or on days the relic is displayed, can save you time and guarantee entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond the relic, you can explore the impressive pagoda, the modern temple complex, and three adjacent museums that house historical artifacts.
Absolutely. As a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, many visitors come for spiritual reflection and to experience the sanctity of the relics.
English-speaking guides might be scarce. Renting a translator device or hiring a local guide beforehand is highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding.
The underground palace is where the sacred relics, including the Buddha's finger bone, were discovered after centuries of being sealed.
Photography rules can vary, especially within sacred areas or museums. Be mindful of signage and respectful of the religious environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining facilities available. Visitors can opt for the unique Buddhist monk-style meal, which has been praised for its delicious dishes like fried eggplant.
The monk meal typically features vegetarian dishes prepared in a traditional Buddhist style. The fried eggplant is a standout item.
The monk meal is a dedicated vegetarian option. Other eateries within the complex may also offer vegetarian choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient pagoda, the temple courtyards, and the museum exhibits offer great photographic opportunities. Capture the scale of the pagoda and the intricate details of the architecture.
Photography might be restricted in certain sacred areas or inside display cases within the museums. Always check for signage and be respectful.
Expect to capture architectural marvels, religious iconography, and the serene atmosphere of a significant Buddhist site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the monk-style meal as a fun culinary adventure for kids, especially if they enjoy trying new foods like the famous fried eggplant. Be prepared for a lot of walking, and ensure children are dressed respectfully for a religious site. Bringing a stroller might be challenging on some older paths, but the main areas are generally accessible.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
The experience of witnessing the relics, housed in their ancient, ornate boxes, is profound. The modern reconstruction, while different from traditional temples, is designed to accommodate large numbers of pilgrims and facilitate their spiritual journey. The opportunity to partake in the monk's vegetarian meal adds another layer to the immersive spiritual experience.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
The three accompanying museums are essential for a comprehensive understanding, displaying artifacts that shed light on the temple's past and its cultural significance. Engaging a translator or guide is highly recommended to fully grasp the historical narratives and the context of the site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Relics of Famen Temple
The preservation of these relics is a testament to ancient craftsmanship and devotion. The intricate boxes, some adorned with silver locks and exquisite carvings, protected the sacred artifacts for centuries. Visitors can witness these relics, though access to the 'true relic' is often on specific display days, making planning essential for those seeking to see this profound artifact.
While the historical and spiritual significance is undeniable, it's worth noting that the discovery and subsequent development have led to a modern reconstruction of the temple complex. This blend of ancient history and contemporary architecture is a unique aspect of visiting Famen Temple, offering a multi-layered experience for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Navigating the Modern and Ancient at Famen Temple
Despite the modern structures, the spiritual heart of Famen Temple remains. The ancient pagoda stands as a testament to its long history, and the underground palace, where the relics were discovered, offers a direct connection to the past. The surrounding museums further enrich the visitor experience, providing context and showcasing historical artifacts that tell the story of the temple and Buddhism in China.
For those seeking a deeper understanding, engaging a translator or guide is highly recommended, as English information can be limited. This will help in appreciating the historical nuances and the spiritual significance of both the ancient foundations and the modern interpretations of this revered site.
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