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Guiyuan Temple, Wuhan

Photograph by Jed Roger, publ. 2020.


Guiyuan Temple in Wuhan, Hubei, a major Buddhist site originally founded during the Qing dynasty in 1658, is renowned for its association with the Chan (Zen) tradition and houses a large collection of ancient scriptures, statues, and stone carvings. Located in the Hanyang district, the temple’s name—meaning 'Returning to the Origin'—reflects its spiritual focus on enlightenment through inner reflection. The temple’s exterior is marked by striking red-painted walls, upturned eaves adorned with traditional Chinese roof decorations, and a prominent incense burner placed before the entrance, where visitors often pause for prayer. Stone-paved courtyards lead to the temple’s halls, and decorative plaques bearing calligraphy are mounted above doorways, adding to its solemn and historic atmosphere. Among its notable features are the Hall of Arhats, containing over 500 intricate clay statues of Buddhist disciples, each with unique expressions and postures, and the Grand Hall, where a towering gilded statue of Sakyamuni Buddha draws visitors and worshippers alike. Despite historical upheavals, the temple remains an active centre for religious practice and cultural heritage in Wuhan.