Huguo Banruo Temple (护国般若寺, also known as Bore Temple) is located in Changchun, Jilin Province, and is the largest Buddhist temple in the city, covering an area of 7,200 square meters. The temple was founded in 1923 by the renowned Tiantai Buddhist monk Master Tanxu (also known as Master Zhan Shan), who came to Changchun to deliver teachings on the Heart Sutra. Inspired by this, he decided to establish a temple and named it Banruo Temple, after the concept of “Prajñā” in Buddhism, which means supreme wisdom. The temple was originally built in the Nanguan District, on West Fourth Road, and later relocated in 1931 to its current location on West Changchun Street. In 1934, the temple was officially renamed “Huguo Banruo Temple,” which means “Banruo Temple for Protecting the Nation.”
The architectural design of Banruo Temple is both intricate and impressive. The temple’s main entrance consists of three large, arching gates, with the eaves elegantly curved and meticulously constructed. The red walls surrounding the entrance display the phrase “Namo Amitabha Buddha” in large characters. Inside the temple, numerous grand halls rise above shaded courtyards filled with lush greenery, creating a serene and majestic atmosphere.
Upon entering the temple, visitors are greeted by the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower, located on either side. Directly ahead is the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, which enshrines a central statue of Maitreya Buddha, known for his smiling, joyful expression. Flanking Maitreya are the statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, each standing atop symbolic creatures that represent their power and influence, giving the hall a lifelike and dynamic presence. Behind these statues is a large image of the protective deity, Skanda Bodhisattva, depicted standing guard.
The temple’s main hall, the Mahavira Hall, is located behind the Hall of the Heavenly Kings and serves as the spiritual center of the complex. This hall is imposing in its grandeur, with beautifully painted beams and intricate wood carvings, all adorned with gold. In the center of the Mahavira Hall is a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical Buddha, flanked by statues of the Eighteen Arhats. At the rear of the hall stands a statue of Avalokitesvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
Beyond the Mahavira Hall is the Sutra Library, where numerous Buddhist scriptures and texts are preserved. The temple grounds are also home to towering ancient pine and cypress trees, which enhance the tranquil and awe-inspiring ambiance of the site.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 15.00; Closed on Mondays |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0431-88914771 |
Location and Transportation
Banruo Temple is located at No. 137 Changchun Street, Nanguan District, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 12, 79, 267, 333, G13, G14, G17, G314, T104, or Z213 and get off at Banruo Temple Stop (般若寺站).
Metro: The closest metro station to Huguo Banruo Temple is People’s Square (人民广场) on line 1. After getting out of the station from Exit 3, walk about 170 meters to the east to reach the attraction.
