Stay at Donglu Mountain Guanyin Temple Resort for an authentic spiritual retreat. This eco-friendly boutique hotel offers traditional Chinese courtyard rooms with serene views of Zijin Mountain and the temple's peaceful grounds. Guests can participate in morning meditation and chanting sessions, immersing themselves in a tranquil lifestyle. The on-site vegetarian restaurant features organic local ingredients, enhancing the sense of inner peace. Located just 30 minutes from Nanjing city center, it’s accessible via Line S6 Metro to Tangshan Station, followed by a shuttle bus—perfect for mindful travelers seeking quietude.

Begin your day with a stroll through the tea plantation trails at the mountain’s base, enjoying fresh air and scenic views. Proceed to the Guanyin Temple for morning worship, passing ancient trees and stone Buddha carvings along the way. Lunch at the temple’s vegetarian hall features a handmade tofu banquet paired with mountain spring tea. In the afternoon, join a guided tour of the Sutra Pavilion and Blessing Stele Grove, then participate in calligraphy or incense ceremonies at the Zen Hall. End your day at Wangyun Terrace, where you can witness the golden sunset over the western slopes of Zijin Mountain. Return to accommodation comfortably—ideal for culture and nature lovers.

Yes! The Family Zen Workshop is a hit—children learn Buddhist art by painting mandalas, crafting paper lanterns, and trying basic meditation. Nearby, the Farm Experience Zone lets kids plant rice and vegetables, teaching them about seasonal farming and sustainability. At night, enjoy the Stargazing Zen Night, where families meditate under a clear sky with guided relaxation music, free from light pollution. All activities include bilingual (Chinese/English) guides and simple instructions, making them ideal for parents and children to bond through mindful learning.

The most convenient option is car rental or private transfer, taking just 30 minutes from central Nanjing via Jiangning Avenue to Tangshan Town. For public transit, take Metro Line S6 to Tangshan Station, then transfer to a dedicated shuttle bus (15 minutes) or electric minibus into the mountain area. The temple has a large free parking lot. Note: Weekends and holidays see heavy crowds—book transportation in advance to avoid delays. Some sites like the Sutra Pavilion require a 15-minute walk; wear comfortable shoes for a pleasant experience.

The temple’s vegetarian meals follow the principle of "grains as foundation, seasons as guide", adjusting recipes daily based on solar terms. Signature dishes include Lingzhi Mushroom Stew, Osmanthus Glutinous Rice Lotus Root, and hand-rolled tofu rolls—all made with wild mushrooms and organically grown vegetables harvested onsite. The head chef won awards at China’s Buddhist Vegetarian Culinary Competition, emphasizing balance in color, aroma, taste, and presentation. Diners enjoy meals in a bamboo-and-wood open-air courtyard, surrounded by birdsong and gentle breeze—creating a true "eating as meditation" experience. Meals cost around 80 CNY, are affordable, and use eco-friendly tableware, earning high praise from visitors.

Discover Yin Yun Valley Waterfalls and the Ancient Buddha Grotto Rock Carvings—hidden gems not on mainstream routes. Yin Yun Valley lies 2 km behind the temple, featuring three cascading waterfalls and a pristine forest trail perfect for photography and quiet reflection. The Ancient Buddha Grotto, carved deep into the mountain’s side, houses over 100 stone statues from the Tang to Ming dynasties, some still retaining original pigments—remarkably well-preserved. Both sites require walking or electric bike access, but offer encounters with local herbal gatherers and tea farmers along the way, adding cultural depth. Bring water and insect repellent for a genuine off-grid adventure.