
Fayu Temple
A historic Buddhist temple on Putuoshan, famed for its Nine Dragon Hall and the challenging yet rewarding climb to Foding Mountain.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Fayu Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Buddhist temple on Putuoshan, famed for its Nine Dragon Hall and the challenging yet rewarding climb to Foding Mountain.
"The Nine Dragon Hall is a unique relic, and the 1,088 steps to Foding Mountain offer a spiritual journey."

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Prioritize comfort for the 1,088 steps to Foding Mountain!
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active Buddhist temple.

Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 56 reviews
Type
Place of Worship
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nine Dragon Hall
Fayu Temple
Marvel at this unique hall, a salvaged piece of Nanjing's Ming Palace, featuring intricate dragon carvings.

Grand Hall & Statues
Fayu Temple
Explore the restored grand hall, adorned with vibrant glazed tiles and impressive Buddha statues.

Foding Mountain Ascent
From Fayu Temple
Undertake the 1,088 steps to Foding Mountain for panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Steps
Respectful Attire & Demeanor
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Prioritize comfort for the 1,088 steps to Foding Mountain!
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active Buddhist temple.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if climbing the steps. Bring water or be prepared to purchase it.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and statues are incredibly detailed. Take your time to appreciate them.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing. Prioritize comfort for the 1,088 steps to Foding Mountain!
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active Buddhist temple.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if climbing the steps. Bring water or be prepared to purchase it.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and statues are incredibly detailed. Take your time to appreciate them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fayu Temple is lauded for its impressive architecture, particularly the historically significant Nine Dragon Hall, and its serene, spiritual atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the vibrant glazed roofs and the opportunity for reflection. However, the extensive climbing required to reach Foding Mountain and the presence of numerous tourists can be drawbacks for some.
"A transitional Buddha temple!
Packed with traditional elements.
Expected with walk around and respect the religion."
Nicki Chan
"Amazing temple"
Joey Jiang
"The Nine Dragon Hall was originally rebuilt from the Ming Palace
Fayu Temple was rebuilt in the 38th year of Emperor Kangxi's reign, and the name of the temple was also given by Emperor Kangxi.
At that time, the abbot of Fayu Temple was received by the emperor, and the emperor issued an imperial decree to "tear down the old palace in Nanjing to give it to the emperor", and the then Ming Palace in Nanjing was dismantled and transported to Putuo Mountain
The glazed tiles, dragon-carved columns and nine-dragon caissons of the Nine Dragon Hall were all removed from the Ming Palace at that time
And Emperor Kangxi's decree at that time allowed the buildings of the Ming Palace to be preserved in the Nine Dragon Hall of Fayu Temple. It can be said that the Nine Dragon Hall is the only surviving building of the Ming Palace
Approaching Fayu Temple gives people a cool and quiet feeling
Fayu Temple is located at the foot of Jinping Peak, with mountains behind and water in front, and ancient trees around the temple
"Puji Temple and Fayu Temple together constitute the Jiang The largest Qing Dynasty building complex in southern China. Fayu Temple covers an area of 33,408 square meters, with a construction area of 15,956 square meters and 382 halls.
The entire temple is built on the mountain, with seven layers of platforms. The main halls are the Heavenly King Hall, Jade Buddha Hall, Nine Dragon Hall, Imperial Stele Hall, Mahavira Hall, and Sutra Library. They are built on the platform and rise step by step.
The roof is covered with glazed tiles in blue, light green, goose yellow, purple and other colors. Under the sunlight, thousands of colorful lights are reflected, forming a beautiful landscape of "Buddha's light shining everywhere"
In 1947, Master Xuanhua received full precepts in Putuo Mountain
Disciples pay homage to Master Xuanhua"
Orange Tree
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fayu Temple is located on Putuoshan (Putuo Mountain). You'll typically arrive by ferry to the island, then take local buses or taxis to reach the temple. Many visitors combine their visit with other attractions on Putuoshan.
Yes, Putuoshan has a good public bus system that connects major attractions, including Fayu Temple. Look for routes that stop near the temple.
Private vehicles are generally restricted on Putuoshan. You'll need to park your car and use the island's public transport.
Many visitors use the island's bus system to hop between sites. Consider purchasing a day pass for convenience.
Yes, there is an entrance fee to Putuoshan island, which covers access to the island and its attractions. Fayu Temple may have separate small fees or be included in a broader temple pass.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While Putuoshan island has an entrance fee, specific temples like Fayu Temple might have a small admission fee or be part of a temple complex ticket. It's best to check on-site for the most current pricing.
Temples on Putuoshan typically open early in the morning and close in the late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to check the specific hours upon arrival or online.
Fayu Temple is generally open year-round, but it's wise to check for any holiday closures or special event schedules.
Yes, as a religious site, visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
While official guided tours might be limited, you can often find local guides at Putuoshan who can provide insights into the temple's history and significance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Nine Dragon Hall is historically significant as it incorporates salvaged elements from Nanjing's Ming Palace, making it a unique architectural relic.
A visit to Fayu Temple itself can take 1-2 hours. If you plan to climb Foding Mountain, allocate an additional 2-3 hours.
The ascent involves 1,088 steps. It's a significant climb, often undertaken with a spiritual intention, kowtowing every few steps.
Yes, basic facilities are usually available within the temple complex and on Putuoshan.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants and food stalls on Putuoshan, particularly near the ferry terminals and major attractions. You can find local cuisine.
As a Buddhist temple, vegetarian options are often available in the vicinity or at temple-run eateries.
Expect seafood due to its island location, along with other Zhejiang province specialties.
Prices can vary, but eating at local eateries or smaller restaurants might be more budget-friendly than those in prime tourist spots.
Bringing your own snacks and water is generally acceptable, but be sure to dispose of your trash properly.
📸 📸 Photography
The Nine Dragon Hall, the colorful glazed roofs, and the serene temple courtyards offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography is usually permitted in outdoor areas and main halls, but always be respectful and avoid flash photography where it might disturb worshippers.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your shots, especially on the colorful roofs.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around religious sites and national parks for safety and privacy reasons.
A versatile camera that handles both wide shots of the architecture and close-ups of details would be ideal. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities also works well.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit