Liurong Temple: A Venerable Buddhist Sanctuary in Guangzhou

Step off the bustling streets of Guangzhou, where honking cars and chattering crowds create a constant urban symphony, and cross the threshold of Liurong Temple’s red gates—and suddenly, the world softens. The din fades into a murmur, replaced by the tinkle of wind chimes and the rustle of banyan leaves. Incense curls in thin wisps toward the sky, its earthy scent mingling with the fragrance of jasmine from the temple gardens. Here, amid ancient brick walls and weathered stone, a thousand years of history breathe softly, as monks in saffron robes glide silently past, and visitors pause to trace the carvings on a stone stele inscribed by Su Shi himself. Liurong Temple, or “Six Banyan Temple,” is more than a relic of the past; it is a living, breathing sanctuary where Guangzhou’s spiritual soul finds its quiet pulse, a place where the rush of modern life yields to the timeless rhythm of faith.

Liurong Temple’s origins can be traced back to the Southern Dynasties period, specifically 537 CE, when it was first built as Baozhuangyan Temple. Over the centuries, it underwent numerous name changes and renovations, reflecting the ebb and flow of dynastic fortunes. Its current name, however, dates to the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127), when the renowned poet Su Shi (Su Dongpo) visited the temple and was so captivated by the six banyan trees in its courtyard that he inscribed the characters “Liu Rong” (Six Banyans) on a stone stele. This act immortalized the temple’s identity, and the name has endured ever since, even as the original trees have long since withered and been replaced by new growth.

The temple’s architectural layout is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese Buddhist design, with buildings arranged along a central axis, flanked by auxiliary halls and gardens. At its heart stands the Mahavira Hall, the main hall of worship, where a towering statue of Sakyamuni Buddha presides, flanked by his disciples Ananda and Kasyapa. The hall’s interior is adorned with intricate carvings and colorful murals depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life, their vibrant hues a striking contrast to the temple’s tranquil exterior. To the east of the Mahavira Hall lies the Hall of Guanyin, dedicated to the Bodhisattva of Compassion, whose golden statue, with a thousand hands and eyes, embodies the spirit of mercy and benevolence.

Perhaps the most iconic feature of Liurong Temple is the Hua Ta (Flowery Pagoda), a 57-meter-tall octagonal structure that rises above the temple grounds, visible from afar. Built in 1097 during the Northern Song Dynasty, the pagoda is a marvel of ancient engineering, with 11 tiers of wooden eaves that curve gently upward, giving it a delicate, almost floating appearance. Its name derives from the elaborate carvings of flowers, birds, and mythical creatures that adorn its brick exterior, which have earned it the reputation as one of the most beautiful pagodas in southern China. Inside the pagoda, a spiral staircase winds upward, leading to viewing platforms that offer panoramic views of Guangzhou’s skyline—a juxtaposition of ancient and modern that is both striking and symbolic.

Throughout its long history, Liurong Temple has been a hub of Buddhist activity and cultural exchange. During the Tang Dynasty (618–907), it served as a stopover for monks traveling along the Maritime Silk Road, who brought with them scriptures, artifacts, and religious practices from India, Southeast Asia, and beyond. The temple’s library, which once housed thousands of Buddhist texts, including rare manuscripts and translations, made it a center of scholarly research and religious study. Even today, the temple continues to play a role in promoting Buddhism, with regular ceremonies, meditation sessions, and lectures attracting both devout believers and curious visitors.

Like many ancient institutions, Liurong Temple has faced its share of challenges. It suffered extensive damage during the Taiping Rebellion in the 19th century and was later neglected during the turbulence of the 20th century. However, thanks to successive restoration efforts, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s, much of its original grandeur has been preserved. Today, the temple is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire its architecture, explore its history, and experience the peacefulness of its gardens.

One of the most cherished traditions at Liurong Temple is the annual Buddha’s Birthday celebration, held on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. During this time, the temple is adorned with lanterns and flowers, and thousands of worshippers gather to offer incense, chant sutras, and participate in bathing the Buddha—a ritual that symbolizes the purification of the mind and the renewal of faith. The atmosphere is one of joy and reverence, as the sounds of bells, drums, and chanting fill the air, creating a sense of harmony that transcends language and culture.

Liurong Temple is more than just a historical relic; it is a living, breathing part of

Guangzhou’s identity. It serves as a reminder of the city’s rich spiritual past, a bridge between different eras and cultures, and a sanctuary where people can connect with something greater than themselves. As you walk through its gates, leaving behind the noise of the city, you can almost feel the weight of history in the ancient bricks and the rustle of leaves in the courtyard—a gentle reminder that some things, like faith and beauty, are timeless. In a city that is constantly evolving, Liurong Temple stands firm, a testament to the enduring power of spirituality and the human need for transcendence.