Guangzhou Temple of the Six Banyan Trees Guided Tour - Buddhist Philosophy & Flower Pagoda

Encounter the 1,400-year-old Temple of the Six Banyan Trees with an Expert Guide

First established in 537 AD, the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees is one of Guangzhou's oldest Buddhist temples. It has undergone numerous fires and reconstructions. The current name originates from an anecdote where the Song Dynasty poet Su Shi visited the temple and inscribed the characters 'Liurong' (Six Banyan Trees).

Join your local guide to explore the temple's history and architecture, and learn about the process of Buddhism's transmission to China and its evolution within Chinese culture and thought.

Discover the Stories of Zen Buddhism and Huineng the Sixth Patriarch

Examine the Buddhist statues and halls throughout the temple to understand the symbolism of Maitreya Buddha and the Four Heavenly Kings, and how Buddhism influenced and was influenced by Confucianism and Taoism. This goes beyond mere architectural descriptions to help you grasp how core Buddhist philosophies were received in China.

In particular, listen to detailed accounts of the development of Zen Buddhism and the story of Huineng (慧能), the Sixth Patriarch. The Temple of the Six Banyan Trees houses the Hall of the Sixth Patriarch, where a statue of Huineng is also preserved.

Explore the Flower Pagoda, the Symbol of the Temple

Get a close look at the Flower Pagoda (Hua Ta), the temple's most representative structure, and learn about the architecture of Chinese Buddhist pagodas and the beliefs surrounding sarira relics. Discover how ancient temple architecture, beyond being mere cultural heritage, connects with enduring Buddhist faith today.

This tour connects history, religion, philosophy, and architecture into a cohesive narrative, offering a deeper understanding of why the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees is such a significant site in Guangzhou.