Temple of the Six Banyan Trees

Overview

The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees (六榕寺) is one of Guangzhou's most venerable Buddhist temples, originally established in 537 AD during the Liang dynasty. The poet Su Shi named it after the six banyan trees he admired in the courtyard during a visit in 1099.

Highlights

• Flower Pagoda (花塔): The 57-metre, 17-storey octagonal pagoda is the oldest and tallest in the city, adorned with over 1,000 Buddha niches.
• Hall of the Sixth Patriarch: Houses relics associated with Huineng, the Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism.
• Courtyard Gardens: Serene spaces shaded by ancient banyan trees.

History

The temple has been rebuilt multiple times; the current Flower Pagoda dates mainly from a 1097 reconstruction. It has been a centre of Buddhist learning for nearly 1,500 years and remains an active monastery.

Visitor Tips

• Entrance Fee: ¥5 for the temple grounds; a small additional fee to climb the pagoda.
• Etiquette: Remove hats inside the main halls; incense is freely offered.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.