Jiming Temple

Jiming Temple, located on Jiming Hill near Xuanwu Lake in Nanjing, is one of the city's oldest and most revered Buddhist temples. Originally built during the Three Kingdoms period, the temple has been rebuilt multiple times, with the current structures dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The complex features a grand hall, a bell tower, and a nine-story pagoda that offers panoramic views of the lake and city skyline. The temple is particularly famous for its cherry blossom trees, which line the path to the entrance and bloom spectacularly in March and April, drawing crowds for the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Inside, visitors can see ancient Buddhist statues, intricate carvings, and a tranquil courtyard with incense burners. The temple's location on the shores of Xuanwu Lake makes it a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle. Monks still reside here, and you may hear chanting during morning or evening prayers. The site is also a popular spot for photography, especially during cherry blossom season.

Don't miss

• Walk through the cherry blossom avenue in spring
• Climb the pagoda for views of Xuanwu Lake and Nanjing
• Observe monks chanting in the main hall
• Explore the ancient stone carvings and statues
• Visit during the Cherry Blossom Festival (March-April)

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Jiming Temple

Cheapest way inNanjing Private English Tour Guide Service5★ · 14 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$75 per personSee dates →Best full dayFlexible Private Nanjing City Highlights Day Tour5★ · 64 travelers6-8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$150 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Be respectful: speak quietly, avoid pointing at statues, and don't touch artifacts.
• Cherry blossom season (mid-March to early April) is extremely crowded; arrive early to avoid queues.
• Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited inside halls.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and stairs.

A bit of history

Jiming Temple was first built in 300 AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty. It was named after the 'crow of a rooster' that supposedly alerted a general to an ambush. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, with the current structures from the Ming Dynasty.