
Tianning Temple Changzhou
Majestic Buddhist temple complex featuring the world's tallest pagoda, serene gardens, and rich cultural artifacts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Hear the soothing bell chimes

Tianning Temple Changzhou
Best Time
Hear the soothing bell chimes

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic Buddhist temple complex featuring the world's tallest pagoda, serene gardens, and rich cultural artifacts.
"A truly sacred and peaceful place filled with positive energy and a deep sense of calm."

Elevator to the Top
An elevator is available to reach the top floor of the pagoda. Prepare some money for the ride. :moneybag:
Combine with Hongmei Park
Visit Hongmei Park after the temple for beautiful views of the pagoda and a relaxing stroll. :park:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World's Tallest Pagoda
Tianning Temple
Ascend this 153.79-meter, 13-tier marvel for panoramic views of Changzhou.

Main Hall Murals
Tianning Temple
Admire the intricate and detailed murals within the temple's main hall, showcasing rich Buddhist art.

30,000kg Copper Bell
Tianning Temple
Experience the sheer scale and potential resonance of this enormous copper bell, a significant artifact.

Arhat Statues
Tianning Temple Walls
Discover around 500 high-art Arhat statues embedded in the temple walls, a rare artistic treasure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pagoda Views & Bell Chimes
Beyond the Pagoda
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Elevator to the Top
An elevator is available to reach the top floor of the pagoda. Prepare some money for the ride. :moneybag:
Combine with Hongmei Park
Visit Hongmei Park after the temple for beautiful views of the pagoda and a relaxing stroll. :park:
Peaceful Atmosphere
Experience the calm and spiritual energy, perfect for reflection and prayer. :pray:
Free Entrance
Enjoy the temple's beauty and serenity without an admission fee. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
Elevator to the Top
An elevator is available to reach the top floor of the pagoda. Prepare some money for the ride. :moneybag:
Combine with Hongmei Park
Visit Hongmei Park after the temple for beautiful views of the pagoda and a relaxing stroll. :park:
Peaceful Atmosphere
Experience the calm and spiritual energy, perfect for reflection and prayer. :pray:
Free Entrance
Enjoy the temple's beauty and serenity without an admission fee. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tianning Temple for its sacred and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting the impressive architecture, especially the world's tallest pagoda. The free entrance and the opportunity for reflection are frequently mentioned positives. Some note that the pagoda's elevator has a fee, and while the temple is ancient, parts have been rebuilt.
"Tianning Temple in Shanghai is a truly sacred and peaceful place filled with positive energy. The moment you step inside, you can feel a deep sense of calm and spiritual connection. The temple’s architecture and chanting create a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection. It’s a wonderful place to offer incense, meditate, and experience the compassion and blessings of the Buddhas. A meaningful destination for anyone seeking peace of mind and spiritual growth."
Leonard Leow
"Clean, beautiful place, and free entrance"
鲁迪Khoirudin
"Tianning Temple (天寧寺) is an important building in Jiangsu Province. It attracts visitor for the majestic structure and long history building:
1. The structure feature: this 13-storey octagon shaped temple is 153.7 meter height, which is the highest pagoda in China and in the world. There is an elevator for visitor to the top floor. You have to prepare the money.
2. The history feature: There are about 500 Arhat (羅漢) statues embedded in the both sides of the wall. The artistic level is very high and rare, which is seen as the treasure of the temple.
I recommend visitor can go to the Hongmei Park (紅梅公園) after temple trip. You can stroll in this beautiful park and discover different view for the Tianning Temple."
朱伯駿
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tianning Temple in Changzhou is easily accessible from Shanghai via rapid train, taking about an hour. Many visitors make it a day trip from Shanghai.
Once in Changzhou, you can use local buses or taxis to reach Tianning Temple. The temple is a prominent landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Yes, Tianning Temple is situated near attractions like Hongmei Park, Qingguo Historical and Cultural Street, and Changzhou Culture Square, making it easy to combine visits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance to Tianning Temple itself is free, allowing visitors to explore the grounds and admire the architecture.
While temple entry is free, there is a fee to use the elevator to ascend the tallest pagoda. It's recommended to have some cash for this.
Specific opening hours can vary, but generally, temples are open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or online for the most current times before your visit.
Absolutely. Tianning Temple is a sacred site, and visitors are welcome to offer incense, meditate, and engage in prayer.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Tianning Pagoda is renowned for being the tallest pagoda in China and the world, standing at 153.79 meters with thirteen tiers.
Inside, you'll find the main hall with detailed murals, a massive 30,000kg copper bell, and approximately 500 Arhat statues embedded in the walls.
Yes, an elevator is available to take visitors to the top floor of the pagoda for stunning views.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light for photography. Visiting on a quiet, windy day can also add a unique auditory element to your experience.
As a Buddhist temple, respectful attire is recommended. Visitors should be mindful of ongoing prayers and ceremonies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the temple itself is focused on spiritual practice, there are usually restaurants and food stalls in the surrounding areas or nearby parks offering local cuisine.
You can expect to find a variety of Chinese dishes, from local Jiangsu specialties to more common street food options, in the vicinity of the temple and adjacent attractions.
📸 📸 Photography
The pagoda itself offers numerous angles for stunning shots. The main hall's murals and the Arhat statues also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography rules can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask temple staff if photography is permitted inside the main hall, especially of the murals.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and in urban areas. It's highly recommended to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Tianning Pagoda
Many visitors are drawn to the pagoda not just for its height but for the subtle auditory experience it offers. On windy days, the thousands of small bells attached to its eaves create a soothing, melodic chime that resonates through the temple grounds. This unique feature adds a layer of tranquility to the visit, making it a multi-sensory experience. The pagoda is often described as the 'golden spire' of the region, a beacon of spiritual and architectural achievement.
Artistic and Historical Treasures
Another remarkable feature is the 30,000kg copper bell, a monumental piece that speaks to the temple's grandeur and the craftsmanship of its builders. Equally impressive are the approximately 500 Arhat statues embedded along the temple walls. These statues are highly regarded for their artistic quality and rarity, considered a treasure of the temple. Exploring these elements provides a deeper understanding of the temple's cultural and spiritual importance.
Exploring the Surroundings
For those interested in historical charm, Qingguo Historical and Cultural Street offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and local life. Additionally, Changzhou Culture Square provides a more modern recreational space. The proximity of these sites makes Changzhou a well-rounded destination for a day trip, blending ancient spirituality with cultural exploration and natural beauty.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit