Kaiyuan Temple
Quan Zhou, Fujian
A Tang-dynasty Buddhist temple founded in 686, home to twin five-storey stone pagodas that are the tallest surviving pair from the Song dynasty in China.
Why visit Kaiyuan Temple?
As one of the 22 sites in Quanzhou's 2021 UNESCO listing, Kaiyuan Temple sits at the physical and historical centre of the old city — its pagodas have stood since the Song dynasty and are still an active place of worship today.
How to experience it
Walk a full circuit of both pagodas before entering the main hall, then explore the surrounding temple grounds, which are larger than they first appear from the entrance.
Tip
Combine with a walk to Xi Street just outside the temple gates for one of the city's best-preserved old commercial streets.