Huangmei Travel Guide
The place of practice of the Fifth Patriarch of Chan, the place where the Sixth Patriarch obtained the Dharma
Huangmei | The Zen Patriarch Fifth Ancestor's Monastery, the place where the Sixth Ancestor attained enlightenment: Huangmei in Hubei is the monastery of Hongren, the Fifth Patriarch of Zen. Here, the Sixth Patriarch Huineng wrote 'Originally, bodhi has no tree,' received the robe and bowl, and returned south, marking the division of Zen into Northern and Southern schools. The Sizu Temple and Wuzu Temple in the mountains are still secluded monastic sites, attracting very few tourists. This site compiles the best seasons to visit, recommended stay duration, intercity transportation, and local tips.
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Destination Details
Huangmei in Hubei is the monastery of Hongren, the Fifth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism. The Sixth Patriarch, Huineng, wrote "Bodhi has no tree" here, received the ceremonial robe, and returned south, marking the split of Chan Buddhism into northern and southern branches. The Fourth Patriarch Temple and Fifth Patriarch Temple in the mountains are still places of quiet practice, with very few tourists.
Highlights
Fifth Patriarch Temple
The Dongshan monastery where Hongren resided, with the Shengmu Hall and Baiyi Hermitage ascending along the mountain. The place where Huineng pounded rice and the story of passing on the robe are both here.
Fourth Patriarch Temple
The monastery of Master Daoxin, with the Pilu Pagoda and Lingrun Bridge dating back to the Tang Dynasty, quieter than the Fifth Patriarch Temple.
Dongshan Ancient Trail
The stone steps connecting the Dharma Receiving Cave and the monasteries, with azaleas blooming on the slopes in spring.
Laozu Mountain and Miaole Temple
Nearby small temples and pagodas, can be scheduled for half a day if time allows.
Recommended Stay and Route
- Recommended stay: 1 day.
- Huangmei in Hubei is the monastery of Hongren, the Fifth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism. Huineng wrote "Bodhi has no tree" here, after which Chan split into north and south.
- Linking with other cities on the same theme for a route is more efficient; refer to the "Extended Routes" below.
Best Season
March to May, September to November; bring rain gear as the mountainous area is often rainy.
How to Get There and Intercity Transport
The nearest airports and high-speed train stations are Jiujiang/Wuhan. From Huangmei County to the Fifth Patriarch Temple, it takes about 30 minutes by taxi; the Chan Buddhism route usually involves hiring a car.
Local Cuisine
Huangmei fish noodles, eastern Hubei slow-boiled soup, and vegetarian meals at the monasteries.
Local Tips
- Both temples are places of quiet practice; do not speak loudly; mountain paths are slippery, wear non-slip shoes.
