Chongyuan Temple Yangcheng Lake
A serene sanctuary featuring a colossal Guanyin statue, offering peace and awe away from Suzhou's bustle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Chongyuan Temple Yangcheng Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene sanctuary featuring a colossal Guanyin statue, offering peace and awe away from Suzhou's bustle.
"The highlight, of course, is the magnificent Buddha statue towering six floors high. Standing before it, I felt a mix of inner peace, astonishment, and awe all at once."
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing several floors to see the Guanyin statue, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Respect the Silence
It's a place of worship and reflection. Keep noise levels down to maintain the serene atmosphere. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Guanyin Statue
Guanyin Hall
A towering, six-floor indoor statue of Avalokitesvara, inspiring awe and inner peace.
Architectural Marvel
Temple grounds
Stunning temple architecture that blends deep calm with impressive design.
Tranquil Atmosphere
Throughout the temple
A secluded, quiet retreat perfect for reflection and spiritual immersion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Yangcheng Lake for Hairy Crab
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing several floors to see the Guanyin statue, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Respect the Silence
It's a place of worship and reflection. Keep noise levels down to maintain the serene atmosphere. :pray:
What are off-the-beaten-path things to do in Suzhou?
what is something fun to do in Suzhou that isn't a water town or temple or museum
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The scale of the Guanyin statue is breathtaking. Take your time to find the best angles for photos. :camerawithflash:
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. Explore the different levels and soak in the spiritual ambiance. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing several floors to see the Guanyin statue, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Respect the Silence
It's a place of worship and reflection. Keep noise levels down to maintain the serene atmosphere. :pray:
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The scale of the Guanyin statue is breathtaking. Take your time to find the best angles for photos. :camerawithflash:
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. Explore the different levels and soak in the spiritual ambiance. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chongyuan Temple is lauded as a peaceful and awe-inspiring sanctuary, offering a serene escape from urban life. Visitors are particularly struck by the magnificent, towering Guanyin statue and the temple's stunning architecture. While some may find the climbing aspect challenging, the overall experience is described as deeply tranquil and inspiring.
"A Peaceful and Awe-Inspiring Marvel
Chongyuan Temple is truly an epitome of peace and spiritual beauty. Tucked away from the bustling city of Suzhou, it offers a quiet, secluded escape that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the serenity of the surroundings. The lack of large crowds only enhances the experience, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking reflection.
The highlight, of course, is the magnificent Buddha statue towering six floors high. Standing before it, I felt a mix of inner peace, astonishment, and awe all at once. It's a sight that stays with you long after you leave. Thetemple itself is a pure marvel, combining stunning architecture with a deep sense of calm.
Highly recommend visiting for anyone in need of tranquility and inspiration!"
Yutika Bhansali
"Impressive temple with a massive Guanyin hall - very relaxing place."
Lucas Gangneux
"Today, my friend took me to Suzhou Chongyuan Temple. He told me that this temple is more historically significant than Hanshan Temple, and it has the largest indoor statue of Avalokitesvara in China. It is indeed worthy of its reputation. I climbed about eight floors to reach the top of Avalokitesvara. Someone asked why Avalokitesvara's eyes are looking down. I thought about it and it probably means that he can overlook all living beings and that all living beings are equal. Chongyuan Temple is a temple. It was originally named Chongxuan Temple and was built in the second year of Tianjian (503 AD) during the reign of Emperor Wu of Liang. In the early Northern Song Dynasty, it was renamed Chengtian Temple. In the late Northern Song Dynasty, it was renamed Nengren Temple. In the late Southern Song Dynasty, Zheng Sixiao hid "The History of the Heart" in the temple well. During the Yuan Dynasty, it was renamed Chengtian Nengren Temple. In the third year of Tianyou (1356), after Zhang Shicheng conquered Suzhou, the temple was changed to a palace, and it was restored to a temple in the Ming Dynasty. In the Qing Dynasty, in order to avoid the name of Aixinjueluo Xuanye, "Xuan" was changed to "Yuan", and it was named Chongyuan Temple. The name Chongyuan Temple has been used ever since. Later, Chongyuan Temple was completely destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. In November 2003, the Jiangsu Provincial People's Government approved the restoration and reconstruction of Chongyuan Temple, and the abbot of Hanshan Temple, Master Qiu Shuang, served as the abbot.
Today, we worshiped each Bodhisattva one by one, thanking the Bodhisattva for blessing the whole family. If you have come to Suzhou, you may as well come and bathe your body and mind."
Chin Cheng Chan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service (like Didi) from Suzhou's city center to Chongyuan Temple. It's a relatively short drive, making it an accessible day trip.
While taxis are convenient, checking local bus routes might be an option for budget travelers. However, specific routes can change, so it's best to confirm with local transport apps or information centers.
From Shanghai, you can take a high-speed train to Suzhou and then a taxi or Didi to Chongyuan Temple. This makes it a feasible day trip from Shanghai.
Yes, there are typically parking facilities available for visitors who drive to the temple.
From Suzhou North Railway Station, a taxi or Didi ride to Chongyuan Temple should take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the temple itself is a place of worship, there might be specific areas or attractions within the complex that require an entrance fee. It's advisable to check for any admission charges upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary, but temples in China generally open early in the morning and close in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to confirm the exact hours before your visit.
Information regarding specific fees for the Guanyin Hall is not widely available, but it's common for major attractions within temple complexes to have a separate charge.
Advance booking is typically not required for temples like Chongyuan. Entry is usually on a walk-in basis.
Information on discounts is not readily available. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter if you are eligible for any concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The undisputed highlight is the magnificent six-floor indoor statue of Avalokitesvara (Guanyin), which is one of the largest in China.
Visitors typically climb about eight floors to reach the top of the Avalokitesvara statue, offering different perspectives as you ascend.
Reviews suggest that Chongyuan Temple is often less crowded than other Suzhou attractions, offering a more peaceful and contemplative experience.
Originally built in 503 AD, the temple has a long and complex history, undergoing several name changes and destructions before its recent reconstruction.
Dress respectfully, as it is a place of worship. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended due to the climbing involved.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most public areas of the temple, but it's always good practice to be mindful of any signs or restrictions, especially within prayer halls.
The base of the Guanyin statue offers a dramatic perspective, and the upper levels provide unique vantage points. The temple's architecture and surrounding grounds also offer great photo opportunities.
While you can see the statue from various levels, the most impactful shots are often taken from the base looking up, or from higher floors looking down.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at religious sites and historical landmarks to ensure visitor safety and preserve the sanctity of the location.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful for capturing the temple's exterior and the Guanyin statue. Afternoon light can also be good, but may be harsher.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to manage expectations regarding entertainment. This is a place of worship, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is key. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options within the temple might be limited. Comfortable shoes are essential for everyone, as there's a fair bit of climbing involved to see the main attraction.
🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
The impressive Guanyin statue provides a focal point for meditation and introspection. The quietude of the temple grounds offers a perfect backdrop for journaling or simply enjoying a moment of stillness. It's a place to recharge and find a sense of inner peace amidst your travels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Reconstruction of Chongyuan Temple
In a remarkable revival, the Jiangsu Provincial People's Government approved the restoration and reconstruction of Chongyuan Temple in November 2003. Master Qiu Shuang, the abbot of Hanshan Temple, took on the role of abbot for the reconstructed Chongyuan Temple. This modern reconstruction has brought back the grandeur and spiritual significance of the site, allowing visitors to experience its historical depth and architectural beauty once again.
The name change from 'Xuan' to 'Yuan' in the Qing Dynasty, to avoid a naming taboo with Emperor Aixinjueluo Xuanye, is a fascinating detail that highlights the temple's long interaction with imperial history. Today, the temple stands as a testament to resilience and cultural preservation, offering a serene space for worship and reflection.
Experiencing the Guanyin Statue
Climbing the approximately eight floors within the Guanyin Hall offers a unique perspective. As you ascend, you can appreciate the intricate details of the statue and the surrounding architecture from different vantage points. The act of climbing itself can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual ascent, with the statue's gaze looking down, symbolizing compassion and oversight over all beings.
Visitors often reflect on the meaning behind Guanyin's downward gaze, interpreting it as a symbol of universal equality and the deity's ability to observe and care for all living beings. This immersive experience within the Guanyin Hall is a core reason why many recommend a visit to Chongyuan Temple for its spiritual and artistic impact.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit