Located at the Yuliang Lu (Yuliang Road) of Jiujiang City, the Nengren Temple has long been renowned as one of the most significant temples in Jiangxi Province. Nestled at the northern foot of Lushan Mountain, the Nengren Temple boasts one of the grandest collections of ancient architecture in Jiujiang City.
Originally built in the year of 503 during the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317 - 420), the Nengren Temple now enjoys a rich history of 1,500 years full of a great many changes. According to historical records, it was first called Chengtian Yuan (Chengtian Courtyard) and the buildings were not that many. During the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907) when Buddhism was predominant, a sainted Buddhist named Bai Yun came across this desolate temple and began a restoration of the Great Buddha's Hall and the Dasheng Pagoda (Great Victory Pagoda). From then on, the temple has attracted increasing numbers of prayers, and has played an important role in Chinese Buddhism. The Iron Buddha Hall was added in the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279).
In later ages, the temple was destroyed by warfare but rebuilt and repaired time and time again. With the restorations of the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911), finally the whole temple was renovated and revived to its former prosperity.
Today, covering an area of about 3,000 square meters (0.74 acre), the temple boasts a collection of structures that create a grand view. Distributed along a central axis, these buildings are the Front Gate, Tian Wang Hall, Shuang Yang Bridge, the Great Buddha's Hall, Iron Buddha Hall and the Depository of the Buddhism Texts. Wandering through the halls and pavilions, visitors can experience the culture of Chinese Buddhism.
In the temple complex, there are 'Eight Spectaculars' which catch the most attention. One of them is the hexahedral Dasheng Pagoda, about 42 meters (138 feet) in height with seven tiers, and constructed of brick. Ascend its spiral staircase to the top, and get a panoramic view of the entire city. Other 'Spectaculars' are a Stone Boat, an Iron Buddha, an Ice Mountain and a Snow Cave.
A buddhism musical band has been founded in the temple to spread the buddhism culture. The band is now able to perform all kinds of buddhim music and medium buddhism musical ceremony.
Entrance Fee: CNY 6
Transportation: Take Bus No. 12, 17 or 19, get off at Yuliang North Road and walk to the temple.
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