Guangxiao Temple in Guangzhou

Among the historical sights in Guangzhou, Guangxiao Temple enjoys the longest history (more than 1500 years) and is the richest in cultural relics. Kaiyuan Temple in Chaozhou, Nanhua Temple in Shaoguan, Qingyun Temple in Zhaoqing and Guangxiao Temple in Guangzhou are known as the four most famous temples in Guangdong Province. As Cantonese put it, Guangxiao Temple comes before Guangzhou City, revealing its long history. Located on Guangxiao Road, Guangxiao Temple covers an area of 31, 000 square meters and tops the list of Buddhist temples in South China. Along the axis line, from south to north, there are the Shanmen (the mountain gate), Hall of Heavenly King, Hair Burying Tower, etc. On the west side are Stone Pillars of Infinite Mercy, West Iron Tower, e[c. on the east side are the Hall of the Sixth Ancestor, the Corridor of Steles, etc.; eastward su are Sleeping Buddha Pavilion, East Iron Tower, etc.
Guangxiao Temple is famous not only for its long history and rich cultural relics, but also for the fact that many cultural celebrities and Buddhist dignitaries have ever stayed here, making it a center for cultural exchange between the south and central parts of China and a place for spreading Buddhism in he south. Among the numerous dignitaries is the most famous master Huinneng (wisdom and ability), the founder of the southern school of Zen Buddhism. The mention of his name reminds people of his well-known Buddhist chant: There's no tree in Bo-dhi, Nor's justice the bright Mirror, Since everything is but nothing, Where can a dust stir?
Huineng’s tonsure was just under the bo-dhi tree in Guangxiao Temple in Guangzhou.