Quanzhou, Fujian: Half City of Fireworks, Half City of Immortals

Visiting Quanzhou for the first time feels like coming home. The city is filled with various temples, thriving incense offerings, and devout believers coming and going daily, giving a strong sense of familiarity ❤️ In the so-called 'Nation of Gods and Buddhas,' Quanzhou, you must visit the famous Kaiyuan Temple. Many might notice that there are several Kaiyuan Temples across mainland China. This is true, as many temples with the same name were built nationwide during the Tang Xuanzong era due to his reign title. Besides the towering five-story pagoda, the courtyard also features a nearly thousand-year-old banyan tree that has grown into a towering giant 🌳. Stepping into the temple, you can immediately feel the weight of history and a sense of peace and tranquility. Following the signs to explore the temple inside and out takes about an hour. If interested, you can also offer incense to the gods and Buddhas. Highly recommended 👍