[2025 Xiamen Attraction] Travel Guide for Shishi Taoist Temple (Updated Jul)

Shishi Temple, initially built during the Tang Dynasty ⏳, boasts over a thousand years of history and stands as one of the few well-preserved ancient temples in southern Fujian. Its name originates from the naturally formed stone chamber cave ⛰ within the temple, where legend has it, eminent monks once secluded themselves for spiritual practice. Built against the mountainside, the temple complex features a harmonious arrangement of structures. The main hall, the Mahavira Hall, is primarily constructed of wood and stone, with its upturned eaves and intricate corners showcasing the architectural style of the Tang and Song dynasties 🏯. Shishi Temple's beauty extends beyond its pear blossoms; its architecture is equally captivating! Even after the pear blossoms fall in March, the temple, with its yellow walls and red pillars, offers stunning photo opportunities 📷. The bright yellow and vibrant red complement each other beautifully. Sunlight casts dappled shadows on the yellow walls, while the red pillars stand out against the blue sky. The interplay of colors creates a sense of solemnity and reverence, making every angle picture-perfect 📸! 📍 Address: Shishi Temple, Haicang District, Xiamen 🚌 Transportation: Take the subway to Wengjiao Road Station (Exit 4), then take one bus stop to "Shishi Temple" Station; or cycle for about 15 minutes 🚴♀, enjoying the scenery of Haicang along the way. 🎫 Tickets: Free admission 🕒 Opening hours: 08:00–18:00 (open all year round) ✨Highlights: 1⃣ Pear blossoms like snow, fallen petals like poetry 🌸 From early to mid-March each year, pear blossoms bloom on the hillside behind the temple, covering the branches like clouds of snow. (Currently, the blossoms have withered) 2⃣ Zen meditation, connecting with your inner self 🕯 The temple regularly offers Zen meditation courses and mindfulness activities. Visitors can learn meditation and chanting from the monks 📿, finding inner peace amidst the morning bells and evening drums. 3⃣ Exploring ancient architecture, touching history 🔍 Stroll through the stone chamber cave, gazing up at the naturally formed stone patterns on the cave ceiling, resembling clouds and water; observe the inscriptions and murals, deciphering the Zen poems left by literati and poets throughout history. 🌟One-day trip to Haicang Itinerary 🗺🌞 Morning: Shishi Temple (2 hrs) →🍚 Lunch: Vegetarian meal at the temple (recommended "Xiangni Zangzhen" taro dessert 🍨) →🌊 Afternoon: Haicang Bay Park (cycling and sea viewing 🌴) → Daping Mountain Country Park (hiking for sunset views 🌅) →🌃 Evening: Aloha City Plaza (tasting peanut worm jelly and Satay noodles 🍜) 💗Food recommendations: 🍲 Temple vegetarian cuisine: "Luohan Zhai" and "vegetarian noodles" are light, refreshing, and delicious, with an average cost of 30 yuan for a satisfying meal! 🐛 Haicang peanut worm jelly: The peanut worm jelly from the long-established street food stall "Haicang Sanbao" is chewy and refreshing, perfectly paired with garlic sauce! 🍡 Xin'an traditional snacks: Handmade *machis*, fried dates, and other Minnan snacks can be found 3 km away in Xin'an Village.

Shishi Zen Temple, located in Haicang District, Xiamen City, is a Zen Buddhist monastery with over 1,000 years of history. Its stunning seaside location and solemn atmosphere make it a must-visit destination. Highlights: - Daxiong Baodian Hall: This hall houses the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, creating a majestic and sacred ambiance. - Seaside Views: The temple grounds offer breathtaking views of the ocean, especially during sunset. - Zen Meditation Experience: With prior reservation, visitors can participate in seated meditation sessions, providing a rare opportunity to calm the mind. Access: - Approximately 20 minutes by bus from "Haicang Avenue Station" on Metro Line 2. - About 30 minutes by car from the city center. Recommended Points: Visiting during the morning worship hours (6:00–7:00 AM) allows you to hear the monks chanting, offering a unique experience. The tranquil temple grounds are also ideal for photography. This Zen temple is perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation. Be sure to visit!

The Stone Chamber Zen Temple, located at the foot of Daimai Mountain in Xiayang Village, Xinyang Street, Haicang District, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, is a thousand-year-old Buddhist temple with a rich history and cultural heritage. Here’s a detailed introduction to the temple: 1. Historical Background Founding: According to the "Haicheng County Chronicles," the temple was established in the third year of the Tongguang era during the Later Tang Dynasty (925 AD). However, ancient stone inscriptions within the temple date its founding back to the second year of the Chuigong era during the Tang Dynasty (686 AD), making it one of the oldest Buddhist temples in southern Fujian. Renovations: The temple underwent five major renovations during the Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing, and Republic of China periods. It reached its peak during the Ming Dynasty, boasting "three layers of halls and 64 monk quarters." The current main hall was built during the Daoguang era of the Qing Dynasty and was later renovated during the Guangxu era. Anti-piracy Relics: The rear mountain of the temple features relics from the Ming Dynasty, including "Youcheng Ancient Fort" and "Jianshan Ancient Fort," which were used by General Qi Jiguang during his anti-piracy campaigns. There are also remnants of horse troughs used by the stationed troops. 2. Architecture and Scenery Main Structures: The temple covers an area of approximately 5,000 square meters and includes the Grand Hall, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Blessing Bell Hall, and Glazed Pagoda. The Blessing Bell Hall houses the "Peace Bell," which weighs 24 tons, stands 5 meters tall, and has a diameter of 365 centimeters, symbolizing the 24 solar terms, abundant harvests, and 365 days of peace. Natural Scenery: The rear mountain features "Eighteen Scenic Spots," including High Mountain Sky Lake, Sword Testing Stone, Immortal Footprint Stone, and Guanyin Cliff, accompanied by rich folklore. 3. Cultural Highlights Medicine Buddha Sanctuary: The temple is a renowned sanctuary for Medicine Buddha (Bhaisajyaguru). Charity Activities: The temple operates the "Stone Chamber Zen Temple Charity Association," which organizes educational aid, poverty relief, environmental protection, free medical consultations, and other public welfare activities. 4. Practical Information Address: No. 8 Yangshun Road, Haicang District, Xiamen City Opening Hours: Summer: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Winter: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Open year-round and free of charge. Transportation: By Car: Drive through Haicang Tunnel or Haicang Bridge and navigate to "Stone Chamber Zen Temple." By Bus: Take routes such as Fast Line 2, 62, or 804 to Tongshida Company Station. By Metro: Take Xiamen Metro Line 2 to Wengjiao Road Station and walk approximately 10 minutes. 5. Legends and Anecdotes Legend: The temple’s location is said to resemble a "golden chicken guarding an egg," with a bridge connecting to Snake Mountain. The temple’s capacity is limited to housing a maximum of 99 monks. Supernatural Tales: During the Cultural Revolution, a thief who stole the jade Guanyin statue reportedly died mysteriously. Similarly, a stolen ancient stone lion caused unexplained tire blowouts, leading to its eventual recovery. Stone Chamber Zen Temple is not only a religious sanctuary but also a destination that combines history, culture, and natural beauty, making it ideal for visitors interested in Buddhist culture and southern Fujian history.

#cherryblossom25 Have you heard about the healing secret spot in Xiamen’s spring? The pear blossoms at Shishi Zen Temple have bloomed, transforming the temple into a magical snowy wonderland! ❄️ The white petals look like snow, gently bending the branches of the trees—it's a stunning sight to behold. 🌿🌸 ✨ Visit Tips: March only! Pear blossoms are in full bloom for a limited time! 🌸 The best time to visit is 8-10 AM, when the light is soft and perfect for photos. Pair the ancient bronze incense burners with the pear blossoms for a moment that feels like traveling back to the Tang or Song dynasty. 🏯 Outfit suggestion: Wear plain-colored Hanfu or a light-colored dress for the best photos! 🌸 Bring props like an oil-paper umbrella or round fan for a magical vibe! 🌂 🏞️ Location: Shishi Zen Temple, Haicang District, Xiamen 🚇 Transportation: Take the Metro Line 2, alight at Wengjiao Road Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride. 🚖 🎟️ Entrance: Free (no reservation needed) Bonus Tip: The temple is also a peaceful place to pray and light incense for serenity. 🌿🕯️ Standing under the pear trees, you can almost hear time whispering by. When the wind picks up, look up and let this spring snow gently fall upon you. ❄️🌸 #travel

[Shishi Zen Temple: Pear Blossom Zen Rhyme] A thousand-year-old temple hides the charm of spring, and pear blossoms reflect the sound of Buddhist chants. In March, at Shishi Zen Temple, the wind chimes on the eaves dance with the fragrance of flowers, and the plain white pear petals fall between the yellow walls and black tiles, like a poetic scene unfolding in an ink painting. The ancient temple appears more ethereal because of the pear blossoms, and the flowers become more serene because of the zen atmosphere. Stand under the trees, watch the clouds drift past the branches, and listen to the bell ringing over the sea of flowers. Each plain petal seems to tell the zen principle of "the non-duality of form and emptiness," and each wisp of fragrance interprets the philosophy of "quiet beauty as before." There is no need to chase after the flowering season; every spot where fallen petals gather is a place for spiritual practice. 🌼Flowering Season Reminder: It will be ending in mid-March, so don't miss the beautiful spring scenery. 📍Location: Under Lingjiu Mountain, Haicang, Xiamen 📸Photo Guide: Yellow walls and flower shadows, eaves covered with "snow," and a distant view of the bell tower. ✨Zen Surprise: You can find ancient steles and General Qi Jiguang's horse trough in the temple and listen to the legends of the anti-Japanese resistance. May this pear blossom snow brush away the dust from your brows and allow time, amidst the falling petals, to precipitate the clarity within your heart.

On March 11, 2025, take Metro Line 1 to Lucuo Station, transfer to Metro Line 2 and get off at Wengjiao Station. You can also take bus 807.890 to get off at this station and walk about 200 meters forward. The indoor environment is nice and the air quality is good! Please comply with the regulations. Shishi Zen Temple in Haicang District, Xiamen City is a thousand-year-old ancient temple located at the foot of Daimao Mountain in Xiayang Village, Xinyang Street, Haicang District. It was built in the second year of Chuigong in the Tang Dynasty (686 AD) and is one of the important Buddhist cultural sites in southern Fujian. The temple enshrines Sakyamuni Buddha and is also one of the well-known Medicine Buddha temples in China. ### Main Features and Attractions 1. History and Culture The Stone Chamber Temple was rebuilt many times during the Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing and Republic of China periods. It was at its largest during the Ming Dynasty, with three floors of palaces and 64 monks' quarters. The existing buildings were mainly built during the Daoguang period and rebuilt during the Guangxu period, covering an area of ​​about 5,000 square meters. 2. Natural landscape The Zen temple is backed by Daimao Mountain, which is surrounded by lush forests, singing birds, blooming flowers, waterfalls and rugged rocks. On the hill behind the temple, there are relics of Qi Jiguang's anti-Japanese resistance during the Ming Dynasty, such as "Youcheng Ancient Village" and "Jianshan Ancient Village". 3. **Famous Attractions** - **Stacked stones in the mountains**: According to legend, these are the relics left behind when Qin Shi Huang drove stones into the sea. - **Guanyin Cliff**: It is named after the legend that Guanyin rescued a widow who jumped off a cliff. - **Sword Testing Stone**: According to legend, Manjushri Bodhisattva tested his sword here, which means that Buddhism is like a sword that can cut off troubles. - **Fairy Foot Stone**: According to legend, this is the footprint left by Guanyin when she subdued the turtle spirit. 4. **Medicine Buddha Temple** Shishi Zen Temple is one of the important Buddhist temples of Medicine Buddha in China. Medicine Buddha is regarded as a spiritual Buddha who blesses health and longevity. The temple is equipped with facilities such as the Medicine Buddha Secret Altar and the Glass Pagoda, and is very popular. 5. **Pear Blossom Spectacular** Every year in early March, the pear blossoms in the Zen temple are in full bloom, covering the branches like snow, attracting a large number of tourists to come and enjoy the flowers. The best viewing period for pear blossoms this year is expected to last until mid-March. ### Useful Information - **Address**: No. 8 Yangshun Road, Haicang District, Xiamen. - **Opening hours**: Open from 08:00 to 18:00 all year round. - **transportation**: - By car: Take the Haicang Tunnel or Haicang Bridge and follow the signs. ### Kind tips - The temple is open to the public free of charge, and visitors are welcome to make donations to support the temple's maintenance. - Please do not pick or break branches during the flower viewing period to help maintain the quiet environment of the Zen temple. The Stone Chamber Temple is not only a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists, but also a great place for tourists to experience nature and historical culture. For more information, please refer to the relevant webpage content.

✨ 📍It is located at Shishi Chanyuan Station in Haicang District. When you get off at this station, you can see a temple in the distance! Yes, that's it! Then just follow your instincts and walk forward! 😜 🙌The scenery of this temple is simply amazing! It is a little-known niche temple, and many people don't know about this hidden gem! 🤫 It is especially suitable for taking photos, and every corner can produce a blockbuster-like effect. 😎 Moreover, there are pigeons inside, and these pigeons are not afraid of strangers at all! When you walk towards them, they won't fly away, they are super friendly! 🕊️ The architectural style inside the temple is also amazing, with a fusion of yellow and red, looking both solemn and elegant, full of classical charm. 😍 ❗Look at the big bell in the first picture, it is said to be one of the only remaining bells of its kind in the world! Many people come here to ring this bell, praying for disaster relief and blessings, hoping to bring good luck to themselves and their families. 🙏

🍂Do not seek outwardly, but seek from the heart Today's check-in at Xiamen's photogenic temple✨ 🧧Attraction Address: No. 8 Yangshun Road, Haicang District, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, Shishi Zen Temple 🧧Attraction Transportation: Search for 'Shishi Zen Temple' in the map navigation 1⃣️You can take Metro Line 2 to 'Wengjiao Road' Station, Exit 2, and walk 1.7 kilometers after exiting the station. You can also ride a shared bicycle or electric bike. 2⃣️You can take bus No. 958 to 'Shishi Zen Temple' Station and walk 600 meters. 3⃣️For self-driving tours, you can park for free at the square in front of the temple. 🧧Must-visit Attractions: 1⃣️The orange-yellow walls of the scenic area are very suitable for taking photos📷 2⃣️Outside the Drum Tower on the left side of the Mahavira Hall 3⃣️The stairs on the right side behind the Dharma Protector Hall 🧧Ticket Information: Free admission (Summer 06:00-19:00, Winter 07:00-18:00) 🧧Other Tips: 1⃣️Vegetarian meals are provided for free daily starting at 11:30 until supplies last. 2⃣️You can follow the official 'Shishi Zen Temple' for possible blessing activities. 3⃣️There are many mosquitoes on the mountain, so be sure to take mosquito repellent and anti-itch measures. 4⃣️Remember to bring your personal belongings to avoid losing them~

Inside, there are many stone statues in the temple, which is bustling with worshippers and has a long history. It's a peaceful place where the soul can be purified and the mind and body can relax. Shishi Zen Temple is located at the foot of Daimao Mountain in Xinyang Street, Haicang District, Xiamen City. It enshrines Sakyamuni Buddha and has a long history and a beautiful environment, being one of the ancient temples of Southern Fujian for a thousand years. According to the 'Haicheng County Annals', it was built in the third year of Tongguang of the Later Tang Dynasty (AD 925), but existing ancient stone inscriptions record that the founding year was the second year of Chuigong of the Tang Dynasty (AD 686). It has been repaired five times throughout history, with the largest scale during the Ming Dynasty, featuring 'three layers of halls and sixty-four monks' quarters'. Now only the main hall remains, built during the Daoguang era and renovated during the Guangxu era, it has been preserved to this day. Taking photos against the yellow walls is super photogenic!

The Millennium Ancient Temple Shishi Zen Monastery is located on Daimei Mountain in Haicang District, Xiamen. According to the existing ancient stone inscriptions, it was founded in the second year of the Tang Dynasty's Chuigong era (686 AD), and is one of the ancient temples in southern Fujian that has been around for a thousand years. It has been renovated five times during the Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing, and the Republic of China periods, with the largest scale being during the Ming Dynasty, featuring 'three layers of halls and sixty-four monks' quarters'. Now only the main hall remains, which was built during the Daoguang period and renovated during the Guangxu period. The existing buildings cover a total area of about 5,000 square meters, with the courtyard inside the temple walls measuring 21.8 meters in length, 11.5 meters in width, and 12 meters in depth. The Shishi Zen Monastery faces south and is backed by the northern mountains, where the 'Youcheng Ancient Fortress' and 'Jianshan Ancient Fortress' are relics of Qi Jiguang's resistance against the Wokou pirates during the Ming Dynasty.

| Xiamen. The spring breeze in Xiamen Haicang Shishi Zen Monastery has brought the pear blossoms into full bloom, creating a secret paradise. Not only are there ancient buildings, but also blooming pear and cherry blossoms, forming a breathtakingly beautiful picture! However, the blooming period of pear blossoms is very short, only about two weeks, so hurry up and come here to take photos and keep memories, or you'll have to wait until next year. 🔺Shishi Zen Monastery is located in Haicang, Xiamen. Entering from the main gate to the Buddha hall inside the monastery, there are more than 500 stone god statues, which are very rare in Xiamen and even in the whole country. The monastery is full of beautiful scenery, with birds singing and flowers fragrant, all you need to do is to feel with your heart; with a sense of awe, you can finish the tour in about two hours (free admission), and there is also a place in the monastery where you can offer incense. ‼️If you want to find pear trees, you can find several blooming pear trees within the Shishi Zen Monastery, each of which is a great spot for photography. Especially the bright yellow walls on both sides of the main hall, where the pear trees and ancient buildings complement each other, creating a unique charm. The beauty of nature always fascinates people. In this spring, why not come to the Shishi Zen Monastery to experience it, it will definitely make you feel relaxed and leave you with wonderful memories. Location: Shishi Zen Monastery, Haicang District, Xiamen City Transportation: The nearest subway line 2 station is Wengjiao Road, buses reach Shishi Zen Monastery station; drivers can park in the monastery parking lot. 🎫Ticket: No reservation required, free admission.

Although it's not a tourist spot, it surpasses one. In Haicang, Xiamen, the Shishi Zen Monastery in spring is as crowded with tourists as popular attractions. Every day, a large number of tourists flock to the monastery just to see the pear blossoms in full bloom. From the first buds, there are people who record and share the daily progress. As someone who loves flowers, I naturally couldn't stay away and happily went there in spring. Currently, there are three pear trees in bloom at Shishi Zen Monastery, one is to the right of the mountain gate at the entrance. You can see it before entering, and after entering, a short walk to the right will take you there. This tree is the largest and has the widest crown when in bloom. Because it's quite obvious, the crowd mainly gathers around this area, and there are staff members maintaining order on-site. The tree is a bit tall, so bringing a stool can make it more convenient to take portraits. The other two are behind the Daxiong Hall, very close to each other. One of them is great for taking portraits, while the other is good for taking pictures with an empty background. In addition to the pear blossoms, Shishi Zen Monastery also has cherry blossoms, yellow bellflowers, camellias, kapok, and of course, the very photogenic yellow walls. The bright yellow color of the monastery, as long as the weather is good, makes for excellent photos. Due to the beautiful environment, it is very popular with tourists. Because of the pear blossoms, too many people go there every day. If you just want to take landscape photos, I think any time is good as long as the weather is fine. For portraits, it's better to go early in the morning when there are fewer people. Some say to go during lunchtime, and that's what I thought too. But it turns out that nobody seems to need to eat, and it's not that less crowded. Transportation: You can drive there, there is a parking lot at the entrance. Or take the bus to Shishi Zen Monastery station.

To the Zen Temple You can take pictures of flocks of pigeons on the eaves🕊🕊 Light and shadow through the branches Hit on the yellow wall of the temple The photo is so beautiful 🌿Grab the little tail of the pear flower~ The only pear tree left is the big tree at the entrance The two above are now just leaves. Even without pear blossoms It's also worth a walk. Temples 🏯 Cherry blossoms 🌸 Yellow bell tree 🌼 Kapok 🌺 Pigeon 🕊 Arhat Bodhisattva 📿 You can also see squirrels🐿 🎋Stone Chamber Zen Temple 🕜Opening hours: 8:00-17:00

In the Shishi Zen Monastery of Haicang, Xiamen, an encounter with spring is quietly unfolding. Although I missed the season when the pear blossoms were in full bloom, I was fortunate to come across the cherry blossoms that were blooming profusely. They were like a magnificent painting, too beautiful for words. The Shishi Zen Monastery, also known as the Lingjiu Mountain Stone Chamber Zen Temple, is a nationally renowned Yakushi Buddha site, located at the foot of Daimao Mountain in Xiayang Village, Xinyang Street, Haicang District. According to the records in the Zhangzhou Prefecture Annals and the imperial edict stele in the monastery, the Zen Monastery was built in the second year of the Tang Dynasty's Chuigong era (i.e., 686 AD), and it has undergone five major renovations from the Song Dynasty to the Republic of China. The Ming Dynasty was its heyday, with 'three layers of halls and sixty-four monks' quarters.' The existing main hall, built during the Qing Dynasty's Daoguang era, was renovated during the Guangxu era, and the current buildings cover a total area of about 5,000 square meters. Walking into the temple is like entering an isolated fairyland. The breath of spring pervades every corner, with pear and cherry blossoms falling like snowflakes, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The tranquility of the temple contrasts with the splendor of the flowers, allowing one to experience the charm of nature and the beauty of life. Here, there are no noisy city sounds, only the whispers of birds and the gentle caress of the breeze. In this peaceful atmosphere, we can slow down, calm our minds, and feel the tranquility and joy within. The Shishi Zen Monastery has a long history, with scenic spots such as mountain stones, Guanyin Cliff, Sword Testing Stone, and Immortal's Foot Stone. Temple flowers: pear blossoms, cherry blossoms, kapok, and yellow trumpet trees. The pear blossoms are already at their end, and the flower season is almost over; cherry blossoms are blooming one after another, with many along the path of the 500 Arhats; kapok flowers are next to the bell tower; yellow trumpet trees are beside the Great Buddha Hall, but their flowering season is also nearly over. lthyu takes you on a tour of Xiamen Shishi Zen Monastery Xiayang Village, Haicang, Xiamen (beside the national highway)

❤️Reasons to recommend: The Shishi Zen Monastery is lush and verdant, with pear blossoms in the rain, which is very pleasing to the eye. However, what this ancient temple can offer more is the feeling of a Buddhist sanctuary. If you want to relax your mind and release the pressure of work, pick an early morning or evening, walk alone on the temple's small path lined with fresh flowers and standing Arhats, and you can very well clear your mind. I recommend friends to give it a try.

The Zen temple, located in Haicang District, Xiamen City, features over 500 Arhat stone statues from the entrance to the inner hall of the temple, each with a unique expression, offering a picturesque viewing experience. Under the Bodhi tree, there are divine presences, making it an exquisitely beautiful spot for those in the know. Everywhere you look there is beauty, with birds singing and flowers fragrant. Simply pay attention and feel, and you will be immersed in the Zen atmosphere, bringing peace to the mind and soul, making it the perfect season to enjoy the flowers.

The pear blossoms that have been flooding friends' circles are really gorgeous, and I finally waited for a sunny day to visit the Shishi Zen Monastery to see them. Before even entering the main gate, I was captivated by the snow-white pear blossoms beside the mountain gate. After entering, I headed straight for my destination, and boy, there were so many people. It was quite difficult to take a photo with the pear blossoms; there were heads everywhere. But the flowers were beautiful and a delight to the eyes! Due to the large number of people taking photos and the height of the pear blossoms, if you want to take a nice photo with the flowers, it's recommended to bring a stool, but be mindful of safety. Currently, there are three pear trees in full bloom in the monastery: one on the right side of the main gate and two behind the Mahavira Hall. The monastery is beautiful, and there are also many types of flowers blooming in spring. The yellow walls of the monastery are also very popular for taking portraits. Many places in the entire monastery are excellent for photography, which is an important element of its popularity. In the afternoon on a sunny day, it's usually as crowded as grains of rice. Although there is a parking lot in front of the monastery, sometimes it's not enough. At any time during the day, it feels very crowded. I've seen others share that they arrive before the mountain gate opens and as soon as it does, they immediately go to take photos, as there are fewer people during this time, making it better for portraits. I've seen people share which subway station to get off at, but it doesn't seem very close. From what I've researched at home, the public transport is to take the bus to the Shishi Zen Monastery stop. It's quite close. Whether there are parking spaces for those driving is usually a yes. But now, with the pear blossoms in full bloom and so many people going to enjoy the flowers, whether you can find a parking space is a matter of luck.

After the Spring Equinox, the southern part of China starts to welcome the plum rain season. Drizzles that sometimes just won't stop can be quite annoying. But at such times, the air is fresh and moist, perfect for going out to breathe the fresh air of nature🍃. And visiting a Zen temple in the rain can be an even more poetic experience. Wandering through the winding paths of the mountains and forests, the rain-soaked peach blossoms are softer and more delicate, the white pear blossoms are even more pure and transcendent... In the eyes of Buddha, every plant and tree has life; In the mundane world, we wait quietly for the flowers to bloom, nurturing the mind. Gentle breeze and fine rain, a sea of mist and flowers, No matter how big the world is, no matter how far the journey is, the heart always needs a place to stay. To settle your worldly cares, or perhaps a pure land of lotus flowers🪷. ... 📍Shishi Zen Temple Admission: Free Transportation: Metro Line 2 (Wengjiao Road Station Exit 4) 🚇About one kilometer walk from the metro, accessible by bus🚌 as well. 🚗Free parking for self-driving🅿️, may need to queue on weekends. Location of pear trees👇 ✔️The first one is to the right after entering the main gate, up the stone path. ✔️Go up the steps beside the Daxiong Hall to photograph the yellow wall with pear blossoms. ✔️Behind the small pavilion to the right of the big bell👉. In addition to pear blossoms, there are also cherry blossoms, bauhinia, camellia, and golden trumpet trees blooming beautifully... It gets very crowded, with fewer people before 9 am and after 5 pm.

| Visiting the blooming pear blossoms at Shishi Zen Monastery. Spring Outing Memoir | Visiting the blooming pear blossoms at Shishi Zen Monastery🌸🍃 Good rain knows the season, when spring is happening. The pear blossoms of Shishi Zen Monastery bloom on schedule, only for a short two weeks each year. They are expected to wither by next Monday, so friends who want to enjoy them should hurry and go this weekend! If you want to take pictures with fewer people, it is recommended to set out at 8 am, as there will be fewer people and the experience will be better, because it gets too crowded! There are four pear trees in Shishi Zen Monastery, the largest one is on the right side of the main gate, and the other three are behind the Daxiong Treasure Hall. 📍Location: Haicang Shishi Zen Monastery 🚇Subway: Take subway line 2 to Wengjiao Road station, then ride a shared e-bike to get there. ⏰Temple opening hours: 8:00-18:00 🎫Ticket: Free 🚗Parking lot: Available If you go late, it will be crowded, so it is recommended to take photos of the pear tree in the small open space behind the Daxiong Treasure Hall! Because there was an event when I went, so it was not possible to take pictures. In addition to pear blossoms, there are other flowers blooming in the monastery, such as yellow trumpet flowers, cherry blossoms, etc. Recommended equipment is the Fujifilm camera xs20 with a 16-80f4 lens and cc filter.

There is also free vegetarian meal at noon, please feel free to eat. Friends who like hiking can go up from the back mountain and encounter a heart-shaped reservoir. Going further up, you can reach the Haicang Meteorological Observatory.