Jiming Temple

Introducing Jiming Temple
The Jiming Temple is the most active Buddhist temple in Nanjing. Literally translating to “Temple of the Rooster’s Crow,” Jiming Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Nanjing, with roots tracing back to 527 AD during the Liang Dynasty. Despite facing destruction and reconstruction throughout its long life, the current temple complex dates primarily to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It was destroyed during the Taiping Rebellion (1851–1860) but was rebuilt later.

The centerpiece of the temple complex is the eight-sided Yaoshifo Pagoda (Medicine Buddha Pagoda). Inside its base, you’ll find a fascinating display of hundreds of small, golden Buddha statues housed within cabinets. For a truly breathtaking vista, climb to the pagoda’s upper levels for panoramic views encompassing Xuanwu Lake, Purple Mountain, the city wall, and even the Yangtze River in the distance.

Beyond its historical and religious significance, Jiming Temple offers a delightful vegetarian restaurant. Enjoy a delicious and affordable meal with the added bonus of a scenic view towards the city’s Ming walls. Whether you seek spiritual reflection, historical immersion, or simply a peaceful escape, Jiming Temple provides a captivating experience in Nanjing.

Jiming Temple Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Jī Míng Sì 鸡鸣寺
• Religion: Buddhism
• Best Time to Visit: March to May; September to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 1 to 2 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, History and Culture, Buddhism
• Opening Hours: 7:30 – 17:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY 10
• Address: 1 Jimingsi Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province

What to expect at Jiming Temple
Spanning over 50,000 square meters (12.36 acres), Jiming Temple offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Here, magnificent Buddhist buildings, vibrant murals, and serene gardens create a peaceful atmosphere. Witness the daily rituals and ceremonies performed by the resident monks, and consider taking home a unique and memorable religious artifact or souvenir as a reminder of your experience.

Bhaisajyaguru Pagoda
The Bhaisajyaguru Pagoda, completed in 1991, stands as a striking landmark of the temple. This seven-story octagonal structure rises to 44.8 meters (147 ft), offering expansive and serene views of Nanjing from its top. Inside the pagoda, a majestic bronze statue of Bhaisajyaguru, the Medicine Buddha, dominates the space. Each of the seven floors features four exquisite shrines crafted from Phoebe zhennan wood, each housing a captivating wooden statue of the Medicine Buddha, for a total of 24 statues. This grand pagoda is believed to bestow blessings and longevity upon all who visit.

Hall of Mahavira
The Hall of Mahavira, reconstructed in 1994, serves as the primary hall within the temple. It houses a colossal sculpture of Shakyamuni Buddha, an awe-inspiring figure that draws pilgrims and visitors alike to pay their respects. The Buddha is flanked by his disciples Ananda and Kasyapa, further enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the space. The hall’s architecture itself is a tribute to Buddhist tradition, showcasing classic Chinese design elements such as intricately carved wooden beams and colorful murals depicting scenes from Buddhist lore.

Huomeng Tower
Situated at the highest spot of the temple complex, Huomeng Tower provides visitors with sweeping, panoramic views of the undulating landscapes of Purple Mountain from its railing. The name “Huomeng” is inspired by a poignant line in a poem by the renowned Tang Dynasty (618-907) poet Du Fu (712-770). This name reflects the profound idea that enlightenment can emerge from tribulations of hardship and sorrow, inviting visitors to find solace and inspiration in the beauty of nature and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Rouge Well
Legend has it that the stone railings of the Rouge Well, when rubbed with silk, would reveal a rouge-like hue, giving the well its intriguing name. This romantic tale, however, belies a more dramatic past. In 589 AD, the well became entwined with the fate of a fallen dynasty. Emperor Wen of Sui (541-604), in his campaign to conquer the Chen Dynasty (557-589), pushed his forces into the capital. It was here that the last Chen emperor, Shubao (553-604), sought a desperate hiding place within the well, along with his beloved concubines. Their attempt at concealment proved futile, as Sui soldiers discovered and captured them. This event branded the well as “The Well of Humiliation,” symbolizing the Chen Dynasty’s demise and Emperor Shubao’s final moments of desperation. Today, the well serves as a tangible link to this pivotal moment in Chinese history, its depths echoing with tales of romantic folklore and imperial power struggles.

How to get to Jiming Temple
• On Foot: Enjoy a 450 meters (0.28 miles) walk from Nanjing city center to Jiming Temple.