Maitreya Buddha in Mile City, Honghe
Overview
Maitreya Temple (弥勒寺) is located 10 kilometers north of Mile City (弥勒市) at the foot of Jinfeng Mountain (锦屏山). The temple is open daily from 08:00 to 17:30. Surrounded by dense forests and verdant greenery, the temple features a clear spring whose water flows like jade. An impressive stone wall, 8 meters high and 20 meters wide, is inscribed with the cursive characters “Fei Yun Liu Xia” (飞云流霞), meaning “Flying Clouds and Flowing Haze.”
Originally built during the Song Dynasty (宋朝), the temple was rebuilt in the Ming Dynasty (明代) and renovated during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty (清朝). In 1999, it underwent significant expansion. For centuries, it has been a major Buddhist sanctuary in Southeast Yunnan (滇东南).
Maitreya Buddha
The Maitreya Buddha (弥勒大佛) is a natural sitting statue formed by an entire mountain peak. Positioned across from Nuanquan An (南泉庵), one of the famous ancient temples in Qianshan (千山), the Buddha stands 70 meters tall, with a shoulder width of 46 meters, a head height of 9.9 meters, a head width of 11.8 meters, and ear length of 4.8 meters. The features are distinctly carved, and the limbs are complete. The left hand rests naturally on the knee, while the right hand is clenched and placed on the right leg.
Maitreya Buddha is revered by the Yogācāra school (唯识学派) as its founding figure, with its extensive philosophical system explained and promoted by Bodhisattvas Asanga (无著菩萨) and Vasubandhu (世亲菩萨). Chinese Mahayana Buddhist masters like Dao’an (道安) and Xuanzang (玄奘) hold Maitreya in high esteem. In many Han Chinese Buddhist temples, Maitreya is depicted based on the character of the “Laughing Buddha” (布袋和尚), symbolizing generosity and the importance of inclusivity.
The name “Mile” (弥勒) for Mile City (弥勒市) in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州) is derived from Maitreya, with the city, mountain, temple, and Buddha all bearing his name. This area not only boasts favorable natural climate conditions but also rich tourism resources. The most famous attraction is the “Laughing Buddha” (笑佛) located on the 1,999-step staircase, standing at 19.99 meters tall and glimmering with golden light.
The Maitreya Buddha is situated in the heart of Jinfeng Mountain. Climbing the 1,999 steps leads to the seated figure of Maitreya, known as the “Future Buddha” or “Buddha of Hope.” Completed in December 1999, this golden statue is a significant landmark, with a base height of 4.96 meters adorned with golden lotus petals and auspicious pearls, making it one of the largest Maitreya Laughing Buddhas in the world. The inscription “Maitreya Buddha” (弥勒大佛) on the base is penned by Nan Huaijin (南怀瑾), a disciple of modern Chinese literary figure and scholar Shi Chengzhi (施承志).
Longhua Pagoda (龙华宝塔)
The Longhua Pagoda stands at a total height of 64.15 meters and is designed in an octagonal layout. It features one underground level (地宫) and an external appearance of nine levels, with seven inner levels showcasing ancient architectural style. The exterior is adorned with iron railings and granite relief sculptures, while the plaza and corridors in front are paved with bluestone, giving it an ancient yet elegant feel.
The characters “Maitreya Buddha” (弥勒大佛) on the stone platform at the top of the 1,999 steps are inscribed by Zhao Puchu (赵朴初), a noted Chinese Buddhist scholar and modern social activist.
Ticket Information
The entrance fee for the Maitreya Buddha scenic area is 40 yuan.
Ticket Notes:
- Free entry for children under 1 meter tall.
- Free entry for seniors over 70 years old and active military personnel with identification.
The Maitreya Jinfeng Mountain is open from 08:00 to 16:30.
Visiting Maitreya Buddha in Yunnan (探访云南锦屏山弥勒大佛)
? Jinfeng Mountain (锦屏山), a Buddhist sanctuary in Southeast Yunnan, houses the world-renowned Maitreya Buddha. Standing at 19.99 meters, this statue offers endless tranquility and joy.
? How to Get There: From Mile City (弥勒市), you can take a bus, taxi, or drive. It takes about 15 minutes to reach the site. The bus fare is only 3 yuan, while a taxi costs under 20 yuan, making it very convenient.
? While in the area, don’t forget to visit the Dianxi River Wetland Park (甸溪河湿地公园) and the Colorful Jade Pool (五彩玉池) to experience the harmony of nature.
?♂️ Climbing the 1,999 steps leads you to the Heavenly King Hall (天王殿), where you can enjoy delicious vegetarian dishes for around 15 yuan per person. Following that, you can explore the historic Maitreya Temple, the majestic Longhua Pagoda, and the famous “Buddha Hand” (施无畏印).
