A rare celestial phenomenon known as "Buddha Holding the Sun" is expected to attract visitors and photographers to Zhaoqing's Xinghu Lake in Guangdong province this month. The event involves the sun appearing to set into the mouth of a natural rock formation resembling a reclining Buddha.
(Photo: Xijiang No. 1, Contributed Photographer for Zhaoqing Fabu)
(Photo: Luo Xinru, Contributed Photographer for Zhaoqing Fabu)
The 1.2-kilometer-long rock formation, formed by Apo Rock and Wansonggang Ridge, lies along the shoreline of Seven Star Crags Lake and is often described as a "giant reclining Buddha" due to its distinct facial features. The phenomenon occurs twice a year near the spring and autumn equinoxes, with this year's viewing period spanning from September 13 to 23. On clear days, around 6:00 PM, the sun aligns precisely with the "Buddha's mouth," creating a striking visual effect. It's important to note that the ideal viewing location shifts slightly each day.
The site, part of Xinghu National Wetland Park, is situated near the Tropic of Cancer at approximately 23°05'N, making it geographically conducive to such seasonal astronomical events. In addition to the autumn spectacle, the area is known for other solar and lunar phenomena, including the summer solstice and winter solstice.
(Photo: Wu Shanghui)
(Photo: Wu Yongqiang, Journalist from Zhaoqing Media Center)
A detailed viewing schedule is recommended for the best experience:
September 16 is anticipated to be the prime viewing day. On this day, the setting sun is expected to align perfectly with the "Buddha's" mouth, creating the most iconic imagery of the year.
On September 15 and 17, the sun will set on the "Buddha's" upper and lower lip, respectively.
From September 13–14 and September 20–21, the sun's position will be near the "Buddha's" mouth.
(Photo: Hechangtangzhu)
Location: Guanfo Island (Buddha Viewing Island), Xinghu Lake National Wetland Park (星湖国家湿地公园观佛岛)
Ticket Discount (September 13 to 23):
Free admission is available during the event under the following conditions:
General Visitors:
Visitors can enjoy free entry to the Xinghu National Wetland Park area (not applicable to other entrances of the Seven Star Crags) by posting content about the "Natural Reclining Buddha" at Xinghu on social media platforms (including but not limited to Douyin, WeChat Moments, Weibo, and Xiaohongshu) on the same day, and including the hashtag #七星限定卧佛含丹.
Exclusive Offer for Photographers:
Members of municipal Photographers' Associations in Guangdong Province (including the Provincial Photographers Association) can enter the Xinghu National Wetland Park area free of charge (not applicable to other entrances of the Seven Star Crags) by presenting a valid membership card during the event period.
Author | Feng Huiting
Editor | Huang Qini, James Campion, Shen He
