Meilin Temple梅林寺
Meilin Temple sits inside Meilin Mountain Park in Futian District and is one of Shenzhen's oldest Buddhist temples. Historical records date its founding to the Tang dynasty, over 1,300 years ago, making it one of the cradles of Buddhist culture in the area. Built up the hillside among old trees, quiet yet still busy with incense, it is a popular place for Shenzhen residents to pray for peace, and the temple's vegetarian restaurant draws diners on its own merits.
Shenzhen · Visitor Guide2026-10-18
Quick Answer
Is Meilin Temple worth visiting?
One of Shenzhen's oldest temples, founded in the Tang dynasty over 1300 years ago; free entry 08:00-18:00, about 15 minutes on foot from Meijing Station on Metro Line 9.
Quick facts
| Ticket | Free admission |
|---|---|
| Hours | 08:00-18:00 |
| Recommended duration | Allow 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Best time to visit | Good year-round; plum blossoms bloom in spring; weekdays are quieter than holidays |
| How to get there | Metro Line 9 to Meijing Station Exit A2, then about 15 minutes on foot; bus B821 to Meilin Road stop |
| English signage | Partial |
| Wheelchair accessible | Partial |
| Founded | Tang dynasty |
| History | Over 1,300 years |
| Location | Meilin Hill, Futian District |
| Type | Buddhist temple |
| Admission | Free |
What to expect
Meilin Temple sits inside Meilin Mountain Park in Futian District, backed by Meilin Hill and facing the Shenzhen cityscape — one of the city's oldest Buddhist temples. According to the Bao'an County Annals it was founded in the Tang dynasty under the original name Beidu Temple, more than 1,300 years ago. Rebuilt many times, its surviving halls are mostly Ming-and-Qing in style: the Heavenly Kings Hall, the Mahavira Hall and the sutra library among them. The complex climbs the slope in terraces, the buildings plain but solemn, old trees all around and a quiet, restful air. Meilin Mountain Park itself is a favorite leisure and fitness ground for locals, its hiking paths winding up the slope.
The temple is one of the cradles of Buddhist culture in Shenzhen and holds an important place in the city's Buddhist history. Tradition says the Tang-dynasty Chan master Beidu practiced here and made it his preaching center, hence the original name Beidu Temple. It peaked in the Ming and Qing dynasties, drawing worshippers from across the Pearl River Delta, then fell into decline in modern times before restoration and reopening after 2000. Relics survive on the grounds, including an old well, stone inscriptions and ancient trees. Around Lunar New Year the incense burns thickest and pilgrims arrive in an unbroken stream.
Go in the morning and pair the visit with Meilin Mountain Park. The temple is small — about 1.5-2 hours covers it. The vegetarian restaurant serves genuine temple food, open to the public at lunchtime, and is worth trying. Meilin Road in front of the gate has full shopping amenities. Since the temple sits inside the park and the trails wind uphill, those with good legs can climb for the view after paying respects.
How to get there
From Meijing Station on Metro Line 9 (Exit A2), walk along Meilin Road about 15 minutes to the Meilin Mountain Park entrance, then another 10 minutes to the temple. Buses B821 and 44 stop at Meilin Road. From Shenzhen North Station, take Metro Line 4 to Lianhua North and transfer to a bus, about 30 minutes in all.
Best photo spots
- Meilin Temple's mountain gate
- The Mahavira Hall
- The old well and stone steles
- The Meilin Hill hiking trail
- The vegetarian restaurant entrance
Tips
- Go in the morning to dodge the crowds
- The temple food is good — try it at lunchtime
- Half a day covers the temple plus Meilin Mountain Park
Scams to avoid
- No notable scams
Frequently asked questions
Does Meilin Temple charge admission?
No — entry is free.
How do Meilin Temple and Meilin Mountain Park relate?
The temple sits inside the park and is its main sight; the two are easily visited together.
Is the temple food any good?
Many diners say the vegetarian dishes are genuine and worth trying; serving hours are around lunchtime.
Is the climb to the temple long?
Allow 15-20 minutes from the park entrance; there are few steps, manageable for seniors and children.
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