๐️ Day 12: November 5, 2025
Niushoushan Mountain, Nanjing City
Time of Visit: 9:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Nestled in the southern outskirts of Nanjing, Niushoushan Mountain—literally “Ox Head Mountain”—offered a serene and spiritually enriching escape on Day 12 of our journey. With its harmonious blend of natural beauty and sacred architecture, this site is a testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese Buddhist culture.
๐ Arrival and First Impressions
We arrived just after 9 AM, greeted by crisp autumn air and a gentle morning sun casting golden light across the forested slopes. The mountain’s silhouette, resembling the horns of an ox, stood majestically against a clear blue sky. The landscape was ablaze with fall colors—fiery reds, amber yellows, and deep greens—making the entire scene feel like a living scroll painting.
๐ Exploring the Temple Complex
Our first stop was the Niushoushan Cultural Park, home to the awe-inspiring Foding Palace. This subterranean temple is carved into the mountain itself and houses a sacred relic of the Buddha’s parietal bone. Descending into the palace felt like entering a sacred cavern—dimly lit corridors lined with intricate carvings, golden statues, and soft chanting echoing through the halls.
The architectural design seamlessly blends Tang dynasty aesthetics with modern engineering. Every detail—from the lotus motifs to the celestial murals—invites contemplation and reverence. The main chamber, with its towering Buddha statue and radiant dome, was a highlight. It’s not just a place of worship but a spiritual experience that transcends time.
๐ฏ The Pagoda and Panoramic Views
After emerging from the temple, we made our way to the Hongjue Pagoda, a seven-story structure perched on a nearby hill. Climbing its winding staircase rewarded us with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From the top, the rolling hills of Niushoushan stretched endlessly, dotted with ancient pines and winding trails.
The pagoda itself is a marvel—its brickwork and eaves echoing centuries of Buddhist craftsmanship. Bells chimed softly in the breeze, adding a meditative rhythm to the moment. It was the perfect vantage point to reflect on the spiritual depth of the site and the natural harmony that envelops it.
๐ธ Final Moments and Reflections
As our visit drew to a close around 11:15 AM, we lingered in the courtyard, watching monks in saffron robes move quietly between halls and tourists snapping photos with reverent awe. Niushoushan is more than a destination—it’s a sanctuary where history, nature, and spirituality converge.
This two-hour window felt timeless, a gentle pause in our journey that reminded us of the power of stillness and the beauty of cultural heritage. If you ever find yourself in Nanjing, carve out time for Niushoushan. It’s a place that speaks not just to the eyes, but to the soul.
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