Pilu Temple

Located at No. 4 Hanfu Street, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Pilu Temple is like a tranquil pearl in the bustling city. It was originally built during the Southern Dynasties and became a small shrine dedicated to Vairocana Buddha during the Ming Jiajing period, known as Pilu Shrine. It was destroyed by war during the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty. In July of the third year of the Tongzhi reign (1864), Zeng Guofan invited Chan Master Haifeng to rebuild Pilu Chan Temple at the site of Pilu Shrine, and it was grand in scale at that time. Upon entering the mountain gate is the Hall of Heavenly Kings, followed by the Mahavira Hall. Behind the hall is the Sutra Library, to the east is the Ten Thousand Buddhas Hall housing the Ten Thousand Buddhas Pagoda, and to the northwest is the Three Saints Hall for welcoming Buddhas. The temple is bordered by the Yangwu City Moat to the east and the Governor's Office to the west. Pilu Temple is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00, with an entrance fee of 20 yuan per person. There are various ticket purchasing options, and some special groups can enjoy discounts or free admission with valid identification. It is the same meditation site favored by Emperor Qianlong, mainly for blessings related to wealth, career, and academic success. Visitors can start from Meiyuan Xincun and soon begin their spiritual purification journey here. Take Metro Line 2 to Xi'anmen Station, exit at Exit 3, and walk about 500 meters to reach the temple.