Changsha / Kaifu Temple
#November Destinations 2025
Kaifu Temple: A Millennial Zen Temple, the Premier Temple of Hunan
Kaifu Temple, located in Kaifu District, Changsha City, Hunan Province, is an important temple of the Yangqi School of the Linji sect of Chan Buddhism in China, and a key cultural relic under provincial protection in Hunan. It was first built in 927 AD during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period by Ma Xifan, son of King Ma Yin of Chu, and has a history of over a thousand years. The temple's name originates from "Kaifu Lane," meaning "opening up happiness." Over the centuries, Kaifu Temple has experienced periods of prosperity and decline, and has undergone numerous repairs. It remains the largest, oldest, and most popular Buddhist temple in Changsha, renowned as the "Premier Buddhist Center of Hunan."
📍Core Features and Values
1. Long History and Chan Buddhist Lineage
· Millennial Heritage: Since its founding during the Chu Dynasty, Kaifu Temple has witnessed the historical changes of Changsha City and is an important historical and cultural landmark.
* **Chan Buddhist Origins:** As the monastery of the Yangqi branch of the Linji school, it holds a significant place in the history of Chinese Chan Buddhism, producing numerous eminent monks and ensuring the continuity of its lineage.
2. **Magnificent Palace-Style Architectural Complex:**
* **Overall Layout:** The temple faces south and unfolds symmetrically along a central axis, adopting the typical layout of the "Seven Halls of the Sangharama" (a traditional Chinese Buddhist temple complex). The main buildings include:
* **Front Area:** The main gate, the release pond (Bilang Lake), and the incense-offering plaza.
* **Core Worship Area:** The Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Great Buddha Hall, and the Vairocana Hall (the three main halls).
* **Specialized Halls Area:** The Great Compassion Hall (Guanyin Hall), the Manjushri Hall, the Samantabhadra Hall, the Sangharama Hall, the Patriarch Hall, and the Arhat Hall, etc.
* **Practice and Living Area:** The Dharma Hall, the Meditation Hall, the Amitabha Hall, the Dining Hall (Five Contemplations Hall), the Guest Hall, and the monks' quarters, etc.
• Cultural Service Area: Sutra Repository, Mani Hall (Dharma Goods Distribution Center), Wuxiang Art Museum/Udumbara Temple (Cultural and Artistic Space).
• Architectural Style: The main buildings are in the Ming and Qing Dynasty palace style, with yellow walls and black tiles, flying eaves and brackets, solemn and simple. Ancient trees tower within the temple grounds, surrounded by clear water (Bilang Lake), creating a tranquil garden.
3. Rich and Diverse Religious and Cultural Functions
• Complete Implementation of the Three Jewels: It is a complete residence of the "Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha," possessing complete functions for religious activities and spiritual life.
• Propagation of Various Schools: Primarily Zen Buddhism, it also encompasses Pure Land (Amitabha Hall), Huayan (Vairocana Hall), and folk beliefs (God of Wealth Hall), reflecting the characteristic of "integration of various schools" in Chinese Buddhism.
• Cultural Complex: Not only a religious site, but also a public space for cultural inheritance, art display, community service, and spiritual rest.
📍Practical Visitor Information
• Address: No. 152, Kaifu Temple Road, Kaifu District, Changsha City, Hunan Province. • Opening Hours: Generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (may be adjusted during holidays or special ceremonies).
• Admission: Approximately 10 RMB (incense and flower voucher, including three eco-friendly incense sticks). Prices may be slightly adjusted; please refer to on-site announcements for the most up-to-date information.
• Transportation:
• Subway: Take Changsha Metro Line 1 to "Kaifu Temple Station," Exit 1, and walk from there.
• Bus: Multiple bus routes reach "Kaifu Temple" station.
• Suggested Itinerary (approximately 2-3 hours):
1. Main Buddhist Axis: Mountain Gate → Incense Offering Square (for offering incense) → Hall of Heavenly Kings → Great Buddha Hall (core) → Vairocana Hall.
2. Specific Blessings: Depending on personal wishes, you can choose to visit the Great Compassion Hall (for peace and blessings), the Manjushri Hall (for wisdom and academic success), or the God of Wealth Hall (for wealth and career advancement). 3. Cultural Experience: Visit the Arhat Hall (counting the Arhats) → Stroll along Bilang Lake (garden viewing) → Explore the Wuxiang Art Museum/Udumbara Temple (contemporary art) → Visit the Mani Temple (purchase souvenirs).
4. Serenity: Experience the atmosphere of spiritual practice in quiet spots within the temple or outside the Dharma Hall and Amitabha Hall.
* Important Notes:
5. Dress Etiquette: Dress neatly and appropriately, avoiding overly revealing clothing.
6. Behavior: Maintain quiet within the halls; do not make loud noises. Do not take photos directly of Buddha statues; respect religious etiquette.
7. Incense Offering Etiquette: Follow the principle of "civilized incense offering, three sticks are appropriate," and burn incense in designated areas.
8. Event Information: If you wish to participate in Dharma assemblies (such as Guanyin's Birthday or a seven-day Buddhist retreat), please check the temple's official announcements in advance.
Kaifu Temple is not only an ancient temple dedicated to Buddhist statues, but also a comprehensive cultural ecosystem that carries a thousand years of historical memory, a vibrant Zen meditation lifestyle, diverse cultural arts, and a spiritual home for its citizens. Here, one can experience solemn religious solemnity, profound architectural art, elegant garden scenery, and the vibrant energy of fervent folk beliefs. Whether you are a devout believer, a seeker of history and culture, or an urban dweller seeking inner peace, Kaifu Temple offers a unique haven. It is like an eternal "spiritual beacon" and "cultural living room" in the heart of Changsha, quietly awaiting the visit and appreciation of every person with affinity.