Baotong Temple: The Cat Temple

High on the slopes of Hongshan (Red Hill) in Wuhan lies Baotong Temple (宝通禅寺)—a Buddhist sanctuary with over 1,500 years of history. With its golden halls, curling incense, and rows of meditating Buddhas, Baotong Temple is one of Wuhan’s most significant Zen sites.

But ask Wuhan locals why they love visiting, and you’ll hear something surprising:
the cats. 🐾

Known affectionately as “the Cat Temple” (猫猫寺), Baotong is home not only to monks and pilgrims but also to dozens of rescued stray cats who live peacefully on the temple’s back mountain. Come here in the late afternoon, and you may find yourself surrounded by soft paws and curious eyes.

1. History and Spiritual Atmosphere of Baotong Temple

Founded in the Liu Song Dynasty (5th century), Baotong Temple has survived fires, wars, and reconstructions. Today it remains an active Buddhist monastery with both historic charm and living traditions.

Highlights include:

• Baotong Pagoda (宝通塔): A towering pagoda offering views over Hongshan.
• Serene Courtyards: Where you’ll hear monks chanting and the steady rhythm of wooden fish drums.
• Living Faith: Unlike some tourist-heavy temples, Baotong still feels authentic—locals come to light incense, pray for exam success, or find peace between work and study.

2. The Cats of Baotong Temple 🐾

On the back mountain trails, monks have taken in stray cats for years, feeding and protecting them. Over time, the cats have become part of the temple’s identity:

For years, monks have taken in stray cats, feeding and protecting them. Over time, the cats have become part of the temple’s identity:

• They nap on stone steps beside carved lions.
• They stretch in the bamboo groves, catching sunbeams.
• They curiously follow visitors—especially if you carry cat treats.

Best time to see the cats: Late afternoon to early evening, when they’re most playful.

It’s this gentle coexistence between monks, cats, and worshippers that makes Baotong Temple: The Cat Temple in Wuhan so unique.

3. The Taste of Tradition: Vegetarian Cuisine at Baotong Temple

Baotong Temple is also known for its Buddhist vegetarian restaurant, which surprises visitors with simple yet flavorful dishes. Popular choices include:

• Lotus root & tofu stews
• Mock meat braised in soy sauce
• Seasonal greens and soups
• Hongshan cai tai (洪山菜苔): A leafy winter vegetable once cultivated at Baotong, now a Wuhan culinary specialty

Eating here feels less like dining and more like a meditation through food.

4. Where Old Meets New: Starbucks and the Temple View

Just across from Baotong Temple: The Cat Temple in Wuhan sits one of the city’s largest shopping malls. Step inside, and on the first floor you’ll discover a Starbucks Reserve, where modern coffee culture meets ancient spirituality.

Order a barrel coffee, settle by the floor-to-ceiling windows, and you’ll find yourself gazing at Baotong Temple’s red walls rising from green hills. Inside, the hum of Wuhan’s vibrant retail scene buzzes around you; outside, the temple radiates centuries of Zen calm.

It’s a rare, cinematic moment—the old and the new, temple stillness and city energy, merging into one unforgettable frame.

5. Practical Tips for Visitors

Location: Hongshan District, near Wuhan University
Metro: Line 2, Baotong Temple Station (宝通寺站)
Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: ~¥20

Tips for Travelers:

• Bring cat snacks if you’d like furry friends to follow you.
• Respect temple customs: dress modestly, avoid loud behavior.
• Arrive early for the special —it’s popular with both locals and monks.

6. FAQs About Baotong Temple: The Cat Temple in Wuhan

1. How many cats live at Baotong Temple?
Numbers change as cats are keep adopted or rescued, but visitors often encounter dozens of cats roaming freely.

2. Can you feed the cats at Baotong Temple?
Yes! Bringing cat treats is common. Just be gentle and respectful.

3. Is Baotong Temple worth visiting in Wuhan?
Absolutely. It combines deep Buddhist history, local vegetarian cuisine, heartwarming presence of cats, and modern supermarket for resting —a mix of culture and daily life.

5. What is the best time to visit Baotong Temple?
Visit in the late afternoon or early morning to enjoy the cats at play and stay for the peaceful atmosphere. Avoid Buddhist festival days, as it can get very crowded.

Why Visit Baotong Temple with Bridge to Locals?

At Bridge to Locals, we believe temples are not just for sightseeing—they’re for connection. With a local host, you might:

• Share incense lighting with a family and learn their personal prayer traditions.
• Visit the vegetarian canteen with locals and share each other's wishes and storeis.
• Walk the back mountain trails, where your host might introduce you to the volunteers there and “their favorite temple cat.”

Because Baotong isn’t just history—it’s living culture, shared food, quiet faith, and the soft brush of a cat’s tail. 🐾

So, come for the history, stay for the veggie feast, and let a cat (or three) follow you down the mountain steps. 🐱