Jiming Temple

Founded in the Western Jin Dynasty, the temple dates back more than 1,700 years, formerly known as Tongtai Temple. Emperor Wu of Liang devoted himself to religion here four times and helped establish the vegetarian tradition of Chinese Buddhism. Rebuilt and renamed by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang in the Ming Dynasty, it stands at the eastern foot of Jilong Hill, adjacent to Ming City Wall and Xuanwu Lake. Its signature Bhaisajyaguru Pagoda (Medicine Buddha Pagoda), a seven‑storey octagonal tower, once served as the filming stand‑in for Leifeng Pagoda in the classic TV drama Legend of the White Snake. Core highlights include Pilu Main Hall, Guanyin Hall with the backward‑facing Guanyin statue, Bhaisajyaguru Pagoda, Rouge Well (Humiliation Well), Humeng Tower and vegetarian dining hall. Distinguished by striking yellow temple walls and black‑tiled roofs, it frames spectacular city views overlooking Xuanwu Lake and Zifeng Tower. The cherry‑blossom avenue outside the gate draws crowds every spring. Blending millennium‑old Buddhist heritage, Southern‑Dynasty historical relics and elegant Jiangnan aesthetics, it is a beloved destination for pilgrimage, blessing, ancient‑style photography and cultural sightseeing in downtown Nanjing.