Temple of the Six Banyan Trees: The Complete Visitor Guide
Hidden among the high-rise buildings and busy shopping streets of downtown Guangzhou lies one of the city’s oldest and most spiritually significant landmarks: the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺, Liurong Temple). Founded in 537 AD during the Southern Dynasties, this 1,500-year-old Buddhist sanctuary has survived fires, wars, and dynastic collapses to stand today as a peaceful oasis in the heart of Yuexiu District.
Book ticket on Trip with big discount
Whether you are a history lover tracing the roots of Chinese Chan (Zen) Buddhism, a photographer hunting for the perfect shot of Guangzhou’s most elegant ancient pagoda, or a traveler seeking a moment of calm away from the chaos of Beijing Road, the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees delivers an experience unlike any other modern attraction in the city. Its iconic Flower Pagoda — the tallest surviving Song Dynasty pagoda in the Lingnan region — rises above the treeline like a stone lotus, visible from blocks away and instantly recognizable to every local.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to plan your visit: the temple’s fascinating history, what to see inside, the best angles for photography, how to get there by metro, what to wear, and how to combine it with nearby attractions into a perfect Guangzhou heritage day trip.
History of the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees {#history}
The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees traces its origins to the year 537 AD, when Emperor Wu of the Liang Dynasty commissioned the construction of a Buddhist temple to house sacred relics brought back from Cambodia by the monk Tanyu. Originally named Zhuangyan Temple (Solemn Temple), it was later renamed Changshou Temple (Longevity Temple) and then Jinghui Temple before receiving its present name.
The name we know today was bestowed in 1100 AD by Su Shi (Su Dongpo), one of China’s greatest poets and calligraphers of the Northern Song Dynasty. During a visit to Guangzhou, Su Shi was captivated by the six magnificent banyan trees standing at the temple entrance — their lush canopies intertwined like a natural courtyard. When the abbot invited him to inscribe a new name, Su Shi wrote the two characters “Liu Rong” (Six Banyan Trees) with evident joy. The monks carved the inscription into stone, and the temple has been known as the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees ever since. Today, a wooden plaque bearing Su Shi’s calligraphy hangs above the mountain gate.
Over its 1,500-year history, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. The original wooden pagoda collapsed by the late Tang Dynasty. The current Flower Pagoda was rebuilt in 1097 AD during the Northern Song Dynasty and has survived as the oldest landmark in Guangzhou. In 1983, the temple was designated one of the most important Buddhist temples of Han Chinese. In 1997, it was officially listed among the “Top Ten Tourist Attractions in Guangzhou.”
The temple is also recognized as one of the birthplaces of Chinese Chan (Zen) Buddhism and houses the Hall of the Six Patriarchs, honoring Huineng, the legendary Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism who spent significant time in Guangzhou.
Top 10 Things to See & Do at the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees
1. Admire Su Shi’s “Liu Rong” Inscription Above the Gate
Before you even step inside, pause at the mountain gate (Shanmen). The wooden plaque overhead displays the two characters “Liu Rong” written by Su Shi himself in 1100 AD. This is not just a name — it is a masterpiece of Song Dynasty calligraphy and the single most historically significant artifact at the temple. The characters are bold, flowing, and full of the poet’s characteristic energy.
2. Climb the Flower Pagoda (Hua Ta)
The Flower Pagoda is the undisputed centerpiece of the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees. Standing 57.6 meters tall, it is the tallest ancient pagoda in Guangzhou and the tallest surviving Song Dynasty pagoda in the entire Lingnan region. Its octagonal structure is unusual — most Chinese pagodas of the era were square — and reflects Indian architectural influence blended with Chinese design.
From the outside, the pagoda appears to have nine stories. Inside, however, it conceals seventeen levels, with eight hidden interstitial floors — a brilliant feat of Song Dynasty engineering. Each overhanging eave curves upward like a flower petal, while the spire resembles a stamen, giving the tower its poetic name. At the summit, a bronze pillar depicts 1,000 Buddhist figures.
Note: As of 2026, interior access to the pagoda may be restricted during preservation work. Check at the ticket counter on arrival.
3. See the Three Giant Copper Buddhas in the Mahavira Hall
The Mahavira Hall (Daxiong Baodian) houses three massive copper-cast Buddha statues dating from the Qing Dynasty — the largest and most complete set of their kind remaining in Guangdong Province. Each figure stands over 6 meters tall, with a combined weight of approximately 10 tons:
- Center: Shakyamuni Buddha (representing the Present)
- Left: Medicine Buddha (representing the Future)
- Right: Amitabha Buddha (representing the Past)
The sheer scale and serene expressions of these statues create an overwhelming atmosphere of reverence.
4. View the Buddha Tooth Relic
Among the temple’s most precious treasures is a Buddha Tooth Relic, brought back from Cambodia by Master Tanyu in the 6th century. This relic has survived over 1,400 years of turbulence and is considered the foremost of the “Four Treasures” of Liurong Temple. It is housed in the Mahavira Hall area and displayed on special religious occasions.
5. Visit the Hall of Avalokitesvara (Guanyin Hall)
Locals believe that the Guanyin enshrined here is especially efficacious for those praying for marriage and children. Unlike many temples that emphasize incense burning, the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees encourages quieter forms of offering — flower lanterns and agarwood. Observe the faithful as they bow, offer flowers, and whisper prayers in this intimate hall.
6. Explore the Hall of the Six Patriarchs
This hall honors Huineng (638–713 AD), the Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism and one of the most influential figures in Chinese religious history. The hall contains statues and murals depicting key moments from Huineng’s life, offering visitors a concise introduction to the origins of Zen Buddhism in China.
7. Meet the Laughing Buddha and Heavenly Kings
Upon entering through the mountain gate, the first hall you encounter is the Heavenly Kings Hall (Tianwang Hall). The Laughing Buddha (Maitreya) greets visitors with his characteristic broad smile and full belly — a symbol of happiness and abundance in Chinese folk culture.
Behind him stands General Weituo, the stern guardian deity who protects Buddhist teachings. Flanking the entrance are the Four Heavenly Kings, each holding a symbolic object (sword, pipa, umbrella, and snake) representing the Chinese blessing of “feng tiao yu shun” — good weather and smooth harvests.
8. Discover the “Pavilion of Replanting Banyan Trees”
The original six banyan trees that inspired Su Shi are long gone. The trees you see today were replanted around 1913 and are now over 110 years old. The Pavilion of Replanting Banyan Trees (Buron Ting), built in 1919, commemorates this act of renewal and houses a small Bodhisattva statue. The gnarled roots and sprawling branches still create the shaded courtyard atmosphere that moved Su Shi to poetry.
9. Walk the Lotus Pond and Courtyard Gardens
The temple’s compact grounds are beautifully landscaped with lotus ponds, potted plants, and shaded walkways. In summer, pink and white lotus flowers bloom against the red walls of the pagoda, creating one of the most photogenic scenes in old Guangzhou. The contrast between the ancient architecture and the modern skyscrapers visible over the temple walls is striking.
10. Spin the Prayer Wheels
Near the pagoda base, visitors will find Buddhist prayer wheels containing inscribed sutras. Give them a gentle spin clockwise — each rotation is believed to release blessings into the world. It is a quiet, meditative activity that connects you to centuries of devotional practice.
The Flower Pagoda: Guangzhou’s Most Beautiful Tower
No discussion of the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees is complete without a deep dive into its architectural marvel: the Flower Pagoda.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 57.6 meters (189 feet) |
| Stories (exterior) | 9 visible levels |
| Stories (interior) | 17 total levels (8 hidden) |
| Shape | Octagonal (rare for Song Dynasty pagodas) |
| Construction | Brick and wood |
| Color scheme | Red body with white accents |
| Roof tiles | Dark red, upward-curving eaves |
| Top floor relic | Bronze pillar with 1,000 Buddhist figures |
The pagoda’s octagonal design symbolizes the Noble Eightfold Path of Buddhism, while its nine visible stories represent the nine celestial realms. The architectural style reflects a fascinating fusion of Indian stupa influence (brought by the original Cambodian relics) with Chinese pagoda tradition and Lingnan regional aesthetics.
From a distance, the pagoda resembles a giant flower bud reaching toward the sky — hence the name “Flower Pagoda” (Hua Ta). It is visible from several blocks away and serves as a navigational landmark for the entire Yuexiu District.
Photography tip: The best wide-angle shot of the pagoda is from the square directly in front of it, shooting upward at a 45° angle to capture the full height against a blue sky.
Best Photo Spots & Photography Tips {#best-photo-spots}
| Location | Best Time | What to Capture |
|---|---|---|
| Pagoda Square (front) | Morning / blue sky | Full pagoda height with banyan trees framing |
| Mountain Gate | Any time | Su Shi’s inscription + pagoda visible in background |
| Lotus Pond | Summer mornings | Lotus flowers + pagoda reflection |
| Mahavira Hall Square | Late afternoon | Copper Buddhas + incense smoke + golden light |
| Courtyard benches | Midday | Banyan tree canopy + red temple walls |
| Pagoda base (looking up) | Any time | Dramatic upward perspective of eaves and spire |
Photography tips:
- Visit between 8:00 and 10:00 AM for the softest natural light and thinnest crowds.
- Wear neutral or earth-tone clothing — bright colors clash with the temple’s red and gold palette.
- No flash photography inside the halls; it disturbs worshippers and can damage ancient pigments.
- A wide-angle smartphone lens is sufficient — the spaces are compact.
- Portrait mode works beautifully for detail shots of eaves, carvings, and lotus flowers.
Tickets, Prices & Opening Hours
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Entry | Approximately ¥5 per person |
| Pagoda Entry | Approximately ¥10 per person (when open) |
| Children under 1.2m | Free |
| Seniors / Students | Discounted (show valid ID) |
| Opening Hours | 08:00 – 17:00 daily |
| Last Entry | 16:30 |
| Payment | Cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay |
Note: Ticket prices are modest and subject to minor adjustments. You can purchase tickets at the entrance booth — no advance booking is required for regular visits. During major Buddhist festivals (such as Chinese New Year and the Lantern Festival), the temple may extend hours but queues for incense rituals can be long.
How to Get to the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees
The temple’s downtown location makes it one of the most accessible heritage sites in Guangzhou.
Option 1: Metro (Recommended)
Take Guangzhou Metro Line 1 or Line 2 to Gongyuanqian Station (公园前站). Use Exit E or Exit B, then walk straight along Zhongshan 6th Road for approximately 5–10 minutes until you reach Liurong Road. The temple entrance is clearly marked and easy to spot — just look for the pagoda rising above the trees.
Option 2: Metro Line 6
Take Metro Line 6 to Ximenkou Station (西门口站), then walk east along Zhongshan 6th Road for about 10 minutes.
Option 3: Bus
Multiple bus routes stop near the temple:
| Bus Stop | Routes |
|---|---|
| Liurong Road Stop | 12, 215 |
| Zhongshan Liulu Stop | 74, 85, 88, 102, 104, 107, 193, 233, 250, 286 |
Option 4: Taxi / Didi
Set your destination to “Temple of the Six Banyan Trees” (六榕寺) or No. 87 Liurong Road, Yuexiu District. Most drivers know this landmark. However, traffic around Zhongshan 6th Road can be heavy during peak hours.
Walking tip: If you are already exploring Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, the temple is only a 15-minute walk northwest. Follow the pagoda spire as your guide.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–Apr) | Mild weather, banyan trees leafing out | Moderate |
| Summer (May–Sep) | Lotus pond in bloom; hot and humid | Moderate–High |
| Autumn (Oct–Nov) | Best overall — cool, dry, clear skies | Low–Moderate |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Quietest season; crisp mornings | Low |
Best daily schedule:
- 08:00–09:00 — Arrive at opening for the most peaceful atmosphere and best light for photography.
- 10:00–11:00 — Morning chanting may be audible; deeply atmospheric.
- Avoid 14:00–16:00 on weekends — tour groups and local worshippers peak during this window.
Special occasions:
- Chinese New Year — The temple is packed with worshippers burning the first incense of the year. Arrive very early if you want to experience this tradition.
- Buddha’s Birthday (8th day of 4th lunar month) — Colorful ceremonies and extended hours.
- Lantern Festival — The pagoda and halls are illuminated at night on select evenings.
Nearby Attractions & Walking Route
The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees sits at the crossroads of Guangzhou’s most walkable heritage district. You can easily combine it with three other major attractions into a perfect half-day history walk:
Recommended route (morning to afternoon):
- Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (1.5–2 hours) — Arrive at 08:30 for a serene start.
- Guangxiao Temple (光孝寺) — A 10-minute walk west. The oldest temple in Guangzhou (founded 233 AD) and the other “great temple” of the city.
- Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (陈家祠) — Take Metro Line 1 one stop from Ximenkou to Chen Clan Academy Station (10 minutes). The finest example of Lingnan folk architecture in China.
- Beijing Road Pedestrian Street — A 15-minute walk east from the temple. Perfect for lunch, shopping, and seeing the Song Dynasty road ruins preserved beneath glass panels in the street.
Alternative afternoon extension:
- Yuexiu Park (越秀公园) — 2 metro stops north on Line 2. Home to the Five Rams Statue and Zhenhai Tower.
- Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King — 15 minutes by metro. See the 2,000-year-old jade burial suit.
Where to Eat & Drink
The area around Zhongshan 6th Road and Liurong Road is a goldmine for authentic Cantonese food:
- Dim Sum & Tea Houses — Several traditional teahouses line Zhongshan 6th Road, serving har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai, and char siu bao from early morning.
- Wonton Noodle Shops — Look for small shops with bamboo steamers in the window near the temple.
- Beijing Road Food Street — A 15-minute walk east. Everything from double-skin milk dessert to roasted goose and sugarcane juice.
- Vegetarian Restaurants — The temple area has a few Buddhist vegetarian cafés serving mock-meat dishes and temple-style noodles.
Budget tip: Eat breakfast at a local teahouse near Gongyuanqian Station before your temple visit. A full dim sum meal costs ¥30–¥50 per person.
Temple Etiquette & Practical Tips
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | No. 87 Liurong Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou (广州市越秀区六榕路87号) |
| Phone | +86-20-8337-5847 |
| Dress Code | Modest — shoulders and knees covered; no sleeveless tops or shorts |
| Photography | Allowed in courtyards; no flash inside halls; do not photograph worshippers without permission |
| Incense | Available for purchase at the temple shop; burn only in designated areas |
| Accessibility | Flat paved paths; wheelchair-accessible main halls |
| Facilities | Toilets near entrance; no food or drink sold inside |
| Wi-Fi | Not available; mobile data works well |
What to bring:
- A bottle of water (no drinking fountains inside the temple grounds)
- Cash for tickets and incense (some small vendors may not accept cards)
- A light scarf or shawl to cover shoulders if needed
- Comfortable walking shoes (the pagoda climb involves steep wooden stairs when open)
What to avoid:
- Loud conversations or phone calls inside the halls
- Touching statues, offerings, or prayer items
- Visiting during major festivals unless you enjoy dense crowds
- Wearing revealing clothing — this is an active place of worship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees free to enter? No, there is a small entrance fee of approximately ¥5 for the temple grounds and an additional ¥10 to enter the Flower Pagoda when it is open to visitors. Children under 1.2 meters enter free.
How old is the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees? The temple was originally founded in 537 AD, making it approximately 1,500 years old. However, most of the current buildings date from Qing Dynasty renovations, while the Flower Pagoda was rebuilt in 1097 AD during the Northern Song Dynasty.
Why is it called the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees? In 1100 AD, the famous Song Dynasty poet and calligrapher Su Shi (Su Dongpo) visited the temple and was inspired by the six magnificent banyan trees at the entrance. He inscribed the name “Liu Rong” (Six Banyan Trees), which the temple has used ever since. The original trees are gone, but replacements planted around 1913 still stand today.
Can you climb the Flower Pagoda? The Flower Pagoda has historically been open for climbing, with 17 interior levels and viewing balconies. However, interior access may be restricted during preservation and safety inspections. Check at the ticket counter on the day of your visit.
How do I get from Beijing Road to the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees? It is a 15-minute walk northwest from Beijing Road Pedestrian Street. Simply head west on Zhongshan 5th Road, turn left onto Liurong Road, and follow the pagoda spire. Alternatively, take Metro Line 1 from Gongyuanqian Station (at Beijing Road) to Gongyuanqian Station Exit E — though walking is often faster.
Is the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees worth visiting? Yes. For travelers interested in Chinese history, Buddhism, architecture, or photography, this temple is one of the best-value attractions in Guangzhou. The ¥5 entry fee, 1,500-year history, and stunning Flower Pagoda make it an essential stop on any Guangzhou heritage itinerary.
How long should I spend at the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees? Plan for 1 to 2 hours. This allows time to explore all the halls, photograph the pagoda from multiple angles, and absorb the peaceful courtyard atmosphere. Combine it with Guangxiao Temple and Chen Clan Ancestral Hall for a full morning.
What is the best time of day to visit the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees?8:00 to 10:00 AM on weekdays is ideal. The light is soft for photography, the temperature is cooler, and you will share the space with only a handful of local worshippers rather than tour groups.
Is the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees wheelchair accessible? The main temple grounds and most halls are accessible via flat paved paths. However, the Flower Pagoda interior involves steep wooden stairs and is not wheelchair accessible.
What should I wear to the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees? Dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect for this active Buddhist temple. Avoid shorts, tank tops, and mini-skirts.
Best VPN for China Travel: The Ultimate Comparison Guide
JI Hotel Guangzhou Tianhe East Railway Station
S & P Holiday Inn Guangzhou Baiyun Airport
Mercure Hotel Guangzhou Yuexiu Beijing Road
Atour S Hotel Pearl River Taikoo Warehouse Guangzhou