Discover serenity at Nengren Temple, a hidden gem nestled among Guilin's karst peaks! This Tang Dynasty-style monastery dazzles with upturned eaves contrasting against emerald hills. The Mahavira Hall houses a majestic golden Buddha, where morning chanting rituals envelop you in tranquility. Don't miss the viewing platform behind the temple – misty Li River vistas look straight out of a Chinese painting! Locals swear rubbing the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree trunk brings luck.

This boutique hotel in the heart of Guilin offers stunning views of the Sun and Moon Pagodas and the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill. Perfect for both business and leisure, it features executive floors, a kids' club, and a fitness center. The stylish rooms come with smart systems and premium bedding for a restful stay. Convenient airport transfers and car rentals are available, and the hotel is just minutes from Guilin Railway Station, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like Zhengyang Pedestrian Street and Seven Star Park.
Everything you need to know about Nengren Temple
Recommended is Guilin Xiangshan Yun She Boutique Hotel, just 1.5 km from Nengren Temple, offering serene surroundings blending Guibei traditional architecture with modern design. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Xiangbi Mountain and the Li River. Guests can join morning bell-ringing and meditation sessions at the temple, experiencing deep spiritual tranquility. Free shuttle service to the temple ensures convenient access, making it an ideal base for exploring both Buddhist culture and natural beauty in Guilin.
Take Metro Line 3 to Xiangshan Park Station, then walk 10 minutes to reach Nengren Temple. For self-driving, use GPS to locate "Nengren Temple (Guilin)"; the temple has a spacious, secure dedicated parking lot with 24/7 surveillance. Many tour agencies also offer half-day packages including temple entry, guided tours, and round-trip transfers—perfect for first-time visitors seeking a hassle-free experience.
Every Saturday features a Mahayana Buddhist ceremony open to visitors, including chanting, incense offering, and manuscript copying, providing authentic insight into Chan Buddhist practice. The on-site Jingsi Hall offers two-hour meditation workshops led by senior monks, focusing on breathwork and mindfulness. On Lunar New Year's and Mid-Autumn Festival full moons, a special lantern blessing ceremony illuminates thousands of lotus lanterns, creating a profoundly serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Nearby Qingxin Vegetarian Restaurant specializes in Guilin-style plant-based cuisine, such as "Vegetarian Snail Rice Noodles" and "Bamboo Shoot Tofu Stir-fry", using fresh ingredients from the temple’s own organic garden. Another highlight is Puti Tea House, serving handmade osmanthus oolong tea and lotus seed pudding in a tranquil courtyard setting. Both establishments avoid artificial additives, embodying the compassion for all life central to Buddhist values.
A 15-minute walk leads to Elephant Trunk Hill Park, famed for its rock formation resembling an elephant drinking water, offering panoramic views of the Li River and city skyline. Further south, Fubo Mountain houses ancient Tang Dynasty cliff carvings, rich in historical and cultural significance. Along the Li River trail, dramatic karst peak forests reflect beautifully in the calm waters—ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking the quintessential Guilin landscape.
General public visits are free and require no reservation. However, to participate in ceremonies or meditation retreats, registration via the official WeChat account "Nengren Temple" is mandatory at least 24 hours in advance. During peak seasons (Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival), early confirmation is advised due to visitor limits. Entry is via smart ticketing system using ID cards, ensuring safety and orderly access.
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