A visit to Ningbo in the Eastern China province of Zhejiang is incomplete without visiting one of the ten great Chanzong Temples in the Southern Song Dynasty, Xuedou Temple (雪窦寺) in Xikou Town. Xuedou Temple and the 56.74 metres tall Great Maitreya Buddha are one of the attractions within the Xuedou Mountain scenic area which also features Xikou Town, Xuedou Mountain, Tingxia Lake.
You can also enjoy a vegetarian meal at the restaurant within the area which offers simple vegetarian dishes which are appetizing, a healthier choice and surprisingly filling.
After lunch, you get the energy to climb over 300 steps to the 56.75m tall copper Great Maitreya Buddha. Here, you will see the highest seated copper Maitreya Buddha in the open in the world. Xuedou Temple and the Maitreya Buddha was consecrated on 8 November 2008 and opened its doors to the public on the same day.
The Giant Buddha scenic area sits on 52 hectares of land, and the temple covers a construction area of some 8.7 hectatres. The scenic area is split into six different areas – the core zone, bowing worship area, cultural relics exhibition area, Maitreya sculptures area, leisure and self-cultivation area and shopping area.
It was drizzling when I visited in late February this year. It was misty and the ground was pleasantly wet because the reflection on the ground made photos look amazing. There was lots of climbing, but the cool weather helped make it much more enjoyable and less tiring. The whole atmosphere was peaceful and contemplative, almost somewhat ideal for self-reflection. Devotees and pilgrims were praying inside the temple.
Getting to Xuedou Temple
Entry into the Xuedou Temple is 90 RMB per person. If you wish to go up to touch the feet of the Great Maitreya Buddha, there is an additional fee of 20 RMB. Vistors are allowed from 8am to 4pm. You can get to Xuedou Temple by mini bus from Ningbo South Bus Station to Xikou to transfer to Xikou Bus Station to Xuedou Temple.
Check out more photos on our Flickr page by clicking here.
Tigerair flies direct between Singapore and Ningbo every alternate Thursday, Tuesday and Saturday. Chan Brothers is also organizing an 8/9Day Ningbo/Huangshan Tour with Mediacorp artiste Ian Fang.
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