10 Things to Do in Jiming Temple (鸡鸣寺) Nanjing China
Nanjing, the ancient capital of China, is home to many historical sites, including the Jiming Temple (鸡鸣寺). Located on the slopes of Purple Mountain, it is one of the oldest temples in the city and is a popular tourist destination. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Jiming Temple.
1. Explore the Ancient Architecture: Jiming Temple was first built in 557 AD and has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries. The temple is composed of several halls and pavilions, including the Grand Hall of the Great Sage, the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, and the Hall of the Three Sages. Each hall is decorated with detailed carvings and sculptures, making it a great place to explore the history of Chinese architecture.
2. Visit the Bell and Drum Towers: Jiming Temple is home to two iconic towers, the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower. The Bell Tower was built in the Ming Dynasty and is the largest bell tower in Nanjing. The Drum Tower was built in the Qing Dynasty and is the tallest drum tower in the city. Both towers are open to the public and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
3. Admire the Pagoda: The Jiming Temple is home to a seven-story pagoda, which was built in the Ming Dynasty and is one of the oldest and most iconic pagodas in Nanjing. The pagoda is made of brick and is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The pagoda is open to the public and offers stunning views of the city.
4. Enjoy the Garden: Jiming Temple is home to a beautiful garden, which is filled with trees, flowers, and sculptures. The garden is a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the temple grounds.
5. Take in the Views: Jiming Temple is located on the slopes of Purple Mountain, which offers stunning views of the city. The temple is the perfect place to take in the views and watch the sunset over the city.
6. Visit the Museum: Jiming Temple is home to a museum, which displays artifacts and artwork from the temple’s history. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of the temple and the city of Nanjing.
7. Attend a Performance: Jiming Temple is home to a theater, which hosts traditional Chinese performances such as acrobatics, martial arts, and folk music. The performances are a great way to experience the culture and history of Nanjing.
8. Shop at the Market: Jiming Temple is home to a bustling market, which sells a variety of souvenirs, snacks, and local handicrafts. The market is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs to take home.
9. Take a Boat Ride: Jiming Temple is located on the banks of the Qinhuai River, which offers boat rides that take you around the city. The boat ride is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the city.
10. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Jiming Temple is home to a variety of restaurants, which serve up delicious local dishes. The restaurants are a great place to sample the local cuisine and experience the flavors of Nanjing.
Whether you are looking to explore the ancient architecture, take in the views, or sample the local cuisine, Jiming Temple has something for everyone. With its rich history and stunning scenery, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Nanjing.