Nanshan Temple (Nanshan Si)
The basics
Nanshan is also the largest Buddhist temple established since the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Visitors enter the grounds through The Mountain Gate, where two figures of the Buddha stand guard. Several more statues of the Buddha in his various forms live within the two main halls of the temple. A terrace in front of the temple looks out over the South China Sea, affording stunning views of the nearby 354-foot (108-meter) copper statue of the Buddhist goddess Guan Yin. Multi-day itineraries of Hainan almost always include a visit to the temple, though it’s also possible to visit on a day trip from Sanya.
Things to know before you go
- Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the views from the temple are postcard-worthy.
- Remember to dress respectfully and keep your voice down, as this is an active place of worship.
- The temple grounds are accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, though be prepared for some inclines.
How to get there
Nanshan Temple is located 25 miles (40 km) west of Sanya City along the Hainan West Expressway. To get there by public transportation, take Bus 25 to Nanshansi Station or Buses 16, 55, or 57 to Nanshan Station.
When to get there
The best time of year to explore the temple’s outdoor grounds is between November and April, when temperatures tend to be cooler. Avoid visiting on Chinese national holidays, when the temple is often packed with Chinese devotees.
Dining at the Temple
When visiting Nanshan Temple, come hungry. The complex is home to a vegetarian restaurant with a reputation for serving tasty food made from vegetables, mushrooms, and bean products. A daily lunch buffet features around 20 different dishes, making it an excellent introduction to Chinese Buddhist temple cuisine.
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