Bright Filial Piety Temple (Guangxiao Si)

Located near Yuexiu Park, the Bright Filial Piety Temple (Guangxiao Si) is the city’s oldest Buddhist temple. Originally constructed in the fourth century, the temple has been rebuilt numerous times after experiencing fire damage. The main hall of the temple features impressive architecture and a 33 foot (10 meter) tall statue of the Buddha. Further back in the hall is another large statue of Guanyin, the goddess of compassion.

Besides being the oldest temple in Guangzhou, Bright Filial Piety Temple holds an important place in Chinese Buddhist history. Dajian Huineng, one of the most important figures in Zen Buddhism, spent time as a novice monk at the temple during the seventh century and the Sixth Ancestor Hall was built in his memory.

The temple is popular with Chinese and foreigners alike, making the grounds an excellent place for people to listen to the soothing sounds of monks and nuns chanting in the background.