Religious Tourism in China

Around 20% of Chinese are Buddhist currently, making it one of the largest religions in China. As the economic growth, an emerging tourism - religious tourism, has gained its popularity.

As most of my family members are Buddhists, I have participated one with them. Located in Zhejiang province, Mount Putuo is regarded as one of the 4 Sacred Mountains of Buddhism. Particularly, it pays tribute to Guanyin, as known as the Goddess of Mercy.

To reach this island, we could only take a 30-minute ferry. The government planned to build a cross-harbor bridge. As the island resembles a lotus flower, it will destroy its outlook. Many Buddhist also believe it will take away the spiritual fortune. So they called off the plan.

The selling point of religious tourism is that we are able to visit more than 10 temples and pray to Gods within 4 days. Though the scale of temples varies from regions, the structures and rituals are more or less the same.

At the front door, we met the 4 heavenly Kings. By holding broken musical instruments and weapons, it reminds the believers that nobody is perfect, even for God. Buddha Maitreya at the back side reminds the believers to stay optimistic, through his benevolent appearance.

Praying to the Gods, we have to offer 3 joss sticks and tributes, namely candy and fruits. Knee down and meditate. Nod your head with your hands placed front. Palms should face upward as if we held the Buddha’s feet. We could also spread fortune by sharing tributes.

Skanda is the guardian of Buddhist teaching. Temple used to provide the monks with free accommodation, ranging from 1 to 5 days. Since it is embarrassing to ask, the temple would signal the monk, based on the height of Skanda’s sword. The higher, the longer.

Visiting temples is just part of the trip. Hiking is another ideal option. Foding Mountain literally means “the peak of Buddha’'. Visitors could enjoy the sunset and sea view, alongside the largest Golden statue of Goddess of Mercy.

Travel is never satisfied without cuisine. As Buddhist uphold that killing creatures is sinful, restaurants serve vegetarian food to us. It is not mandatory to be vegetarian. However, some still maintain the ritual for good health, while some do it for making wishes.

The more you pay a visit, the higher chance your wish comes true. Once the believers’ wish comes true, they will return to show gratitude the next year. Perhaps this is how religious tourism operates in a sustainable way.