Guangxiao Temple

Overview

Guangxiao Temple (光孝寺) is the oldest and most spiritually significant Buddhist temple in Guangzhou, with a history stretching back over 1,700 years. According to tradition, Huineng — the Sixth Patriarch of Chan (Zen) Buddhism — was ordained here in 676 AD.

Highlights

• Bodhi Tree: A descendant of the tree under which the Sixth Patriarch was said to have meditated.
• Iron Pagoda: A rare iron stupa from the Five Dynasties period (917 AD), one of China's earliest surviving metal structures.
• Hall of the Sixth Patriarch: Contains a hair relic stupa built to house Huineng's shorn hair after his ordination.

History

The site was originally a royal residence during the Western Han dynasty. It was converted to a temple in the 4th century and has been a centre of Chinese Buddhist scholarship ever since.

Visitor Tips

• Free Admission: Open daily with no entrance fee; donations accepted.
• Best Time: Early morning for a peaceful atmosphere and monk chanting.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.