Nanchan Temple, Xining – A Rare Han Buddhist Temple in QInghai

Nanchan Temple (南禅寺), also known as Nanshan Temple (南山寺), is located in Xining, Qinghai Province, and faces Beichan Temple from a distance. The temple’s history dates back to the Northern Song Dynasty (997–1065 AD), with a temple already established on Phoenix Mountain during this period. By the eighth year of the Ming Dynasty’s Yongle reign (1410), the temple had grown in scale. However, during the Tongzhi period of the Qing Dynasty (1863), parts of the temple were destroyed in wartime. Reconstruction efforts spanned over ten years during the Guangxu reign, leading to the creation of a large temple complex.

Today, Nanchan Temple encompasses five courtyards with 86 rooms, covering an area of approximately 6,000 square meters. The main buildings include the Mahavira Hall, Thousand-Buddha Hall, Jade Buddha Hall, Three Saints Hall, Weituo Hall, Maitreya Hall, and Dizang Hall. These structures form a well-preserved example of ancient architecture in Xining and are centered around a temple dedicated to Guan Yu, a revered historical figure and deity in Chinese culture.

As one of the oldest Han Chinese Buddhist temples in Qinghai Province, Nanchan Temple plays a significant role as a place of religious activity for Pure Land Buddhist followers from Xining and surrounding regions. Its classical Chinese architectural layout stands out in Qinghai, a province known for its numerous Tibetan Buddhist temples. The temple’s harmonious design and well-ordered structure reflect traditional Chinese architectural principles, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience amidst the region’s predominantly Tibetan influences.

Basic Information

Location and Transportation

Nanchan Temple is located at No. 93 Nanshan Road, Chengzhong District, Xining City, Qinghai Province. To get there, you can take bus 19, 105 or U9 and get off at Nanshan Temple Stop (南山寺站).