Tiantaiyan Temple in Sanming

A hidden gem in Taining County, Sanming City, Fujian Province, Tiantaiyan Temple blends spectacular natural landscapes with rich cultural history. Located about 10 km from Taining County town and right along the road to the Zhaixia Grand Canyon, it is both accessible and tranquil.

? Basic Information

? Highlights & Experiences

? Ancient Stone Steps & Cliff Corridor

Your journey begins with a 500-meter climb up ancient stone steps. At the top lies a cliff-hanging corridor carved into the rock wall, with wooden and iron railings ensuring safety. Walking along this sky-edge passage is both thrilling and scenic, offering breathtaking views below.

❄️ “Snow Cave” (雪洞) – A Scholar’s Retreat

At the corridor’s end is the Snow Cave, once the quiet study of Li Chunye. Today, it serves as a small Buddha hall. Stone inscriptions remain, including the couplet:

“With lofty aspirations, one may grasp the moon in the sky;
Embracing heaven and earth with boundless spirit.”
These words still echo the scholar’s passion and ambition.

? The Zen Temple

The temple itself, consisting of a main hall, auxiliary rooms, and monks’ quarters, is simple and unadorned. Its atmosphere harmonizes with the secluded rock caves, creating a sense of peace and detachment from worldly distractions.

? Vegetarian Meals (Optional)

If timing permits, you can try the temple’s vegetarian cuisine. The meals are made with spring water, handmade tofu, and homegrown vegetables, occasionally complemented by wild herbs and flowers – a fresh and pure taste of the mountains.

? Practical Information

? Opening Hours & Tickets

• Currently free entry.

• Exact opening times are not officially published – plan flexibly.

? Getting There

• By Car: Set GPS to “Tiantaiyan Temple (天台岩寺)” or “Lijia Rock Zen Temple (李家岩禅寺).” Drive along the Taining–Zhaixia Grand Canyon road and watch for signposts.

• By Public Transport: Take transport to Taining town, then rent a car or take a local vehicle toward Zhaixia Grand Canyon. Get off at the signpost for the temple.

? Visiting Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes – the climb involves stone steps.

• Keep quiet and respect religious customs.

• Protect the environment – do not litter.

? Nearby Attractions

• Zhaixia Grand Canyon (寨下大峡谷) – A UNESCO Global Geopark, renowned for its dramatic Danxia landforms and canyon views.

• Combining both sites makes for a cultural + natural day trip in Taining.

? Travel Tips

• Tiantaiyan Temple is small in scale but remarkable for its cliff corridor and historical heritage – ideal for travelers who enjoy peaceful, cultural, and nature-inspired experiences.

• If you wish to try vegetarian meals, check availability and mealtimes in advance.

• Summers in Taining are sunny – bring sunscreen and water.