Unexpected weekend trend: Millennials flock to temples in SZ

A temple visitor prays outside the hall where the reclining Buddha statue lies.

In a surprising twist, young people are flocking to temples for their weekend outings! Across the nation, temples have become the latest hotspot for seeking blessings, choosing the perfect prayer beads, sipping on a “compassion cup” of coffee, and even inviting friends for a temple feast, making it the trendiest lifestyle and social activity.

Recently, a lesser-known temple in Shenzhen has gained online fame for its delicious temple feast. Tucked away in Longgang District, the Prajna Zen Temple (般若禅寺) is small yet elegant, offering a serene escape. The temple is free to visit.

Details from some decorations at the Prajna Zen Temple.

Originally known as the Pangu Temple, the Prajna Zen Temple underwent destruction at one point but was renovated and rebuilt in 2015. Located near the Yabao Reservoir, the temple offers a tranquil and picturesque setting, perfect for relaxation.

The Prajna Zen Temple offers a tranquil and picturesque setting.

Despite its relatively small size, the temple has a long history and features 11 halls for worship. The Hall of the God of Wealth is particularly popular, with queues forming daily. Additionally, the temple is renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha statue, which leaves visitors in awe of its striking presence.

Long queues form outside the temple every day from 11 a.m. to midday, with people eager to sample the famous temple feast. Due to the overwhelming demand, it is recommended for visitors to make reservations in advance.

A photo of a temple meal shared by a  visitor on China’s lifestyle platform Xiaohongshu.

But what’s on the menu? According to photos shared by netizens, the portions are modest, consisting of vegetables, soup, and ingredients grown by the temple’s monks, ensuring a healthy and comforting meal.

If you’re lucky, you might even get some free vegetables from the temple, such as radishes, Chinese cabbage or mustard greens — taking home some “lucky vegetables” is certainly a blessing!

In the midst of busy city life, this generation of young people is choosing to find solace and appreciation in life’s simple pleasures, in every grain of rice and leafy green, embracing emotional well-being and cherishing the gifts of nature. Perhaps it’s not just the temple feast that’s trendy, but the appreciation of life itself. 

Opening hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Add: 12 Yanan Road, Bantian, Longgang District

Metro: Line 10 to Yabao Station (雅宝站), Exit A1, then walk for about 700 meters