The Garden Temple of the Epiphyllum: A Floral Sanctuary on Jinma Mountain

A Sanctuary of Flowers and Zen

1.Located at the foot of Jinma: Mountain (Golden Horse Mountain) in the eastern suburbs of Kunming, Tanhua Temple (Epiphyllum Temple) offers a unique retreat that blends the solemnity of a Buddhist monastery with the aesthetic beauty of a traditional Chinese garden. Unlike many temples filled solely with the scent of incense, Tanhua Temple is renowned as a "Garden Temple" or "Flower Temple," where the fragrance of magnolias, peonies, and the legendary epiphyllum permeates the air. Established in 1634 (the 7th year of the Chongzhen reign of the Ming Dynasty), it was originally the private thatched cottage and study of the scholar Shi Hanning. Later, it was transformed into a temple, creating a distinctive layout where "the temple is within the garden, and the garden is within the temple," making it one of Kunming's most beloved scenic spots for both locals and travelers seeking tranquility amidst nature,.

The Legend of the "You Tan" Tree

The soul of the temple lies in its name, "Tanhua," which refers to the Epiphyllum flower. According to history, the scholar Shi Hanning planted an Epiphyllum tree here during the Ming Dynasty. This particular tree was not the common herbaceous cactus often seen today, but a woody tree species known as the "You Tan" (Superior Epiphyllum). It is said that this tree grew tall and vigorous, with large, fragrant flowers that bloomed like snowflakes, earning it the title of a "treasure of the Buddha's kingdom." Although the original tree has weathered centuries, the temple continues to cultivate this heritage, and visitors can still admire the vitality of this legendary species in the courtyard,.

A Masterpiece of Garden Architecture

2.The architectural style of Tanhua: Temple reflects the elegance of the Qing Dynasty, characterized by flying eaves and intricate Dougong brackets. The layout is a masterpiece of garden design, integrating pavilions, terraces, rockeries, and ponds into a harmonious whole reminiscent of the classical gardens of Jiangnan. A standout feature is the Tanhua Pagoda, a seven-story ancient-style pagoda located in the back garden. Climbing the pagoda offers a panoramic view of the eastern city of Kunming and the distant Sleeping Beauty (Western Hills), providing a perfect vantage point to appreciate the "Highland Aesthetics" of the Spring City,.

Traces of Revolution: Zhu De's Legacy

Beyond its botanical and architectural beauty, Tanhua Temple holds a significant place in modern Chinese history. The famous general Zhu De, during his time at the Yunnan Military Academy (Jiangwutang), frequently visited this temple to meet with like-minded revolutionaries and discuss national affairs. Today, the temple houses the Zhu De Gift Garden (Zengying Garden), located behind the main hall. Here, visitors can see mahogany trees and magnolias that commemorate Zhu De's connection to the site, adding a layer of "Red Culture" to the serene garden environment,.

The Capital of Flowers

3.True to: Kunming's reputation as the "City of Eternal Spring," Tanhua Temple is a floral paradise year-round. It is celebrated for its specialized gardens, including the Peony Garden, Magnolia Garden, and Begonia Garden. From late winter to spring (January to March), the temple hosts grand flower exhibitions where thousands of magnolias and peonies bloom in competition, creating a sea of red, white, and purple. Even outside the peak blooming season, the lush vegetation and carefully curated landscapes ensure that the temple remains a vibrant and green escape from the city noise,.