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Explore the iconic Three Pagodas, visit the historical temple buildings, and enjoy the serene surroundings. You can also take part in quiet reflection, photography, or simply appreciate the architecture and ancient history of the temple complex.
Three Pagodas Temple, a famous temple in the Jianghuai region, is located 18 kilometers northwest of Quanjiao County, Anhui Province, on the northeast side of Liuzhen. Founded during the Sui Dynasty (605-618), three pagodas were built in front of the temple in the first year of the Daguan reign of Emperor Huizong of the Northern Song Dynasty (1107), giving it the name "Three Pagodas Temple." Legend has it that the Yangzhou magnolia flower actually grows in the Liuzhen of Quanjiao, earning it the name "Six Zhang Magnolia" (Liuzhang, originally known as Liuzhang City). A vast magnolia pond was also built (the poem "Magnolia Pond" by Zhang AAA, a Song Dynasty official and a local resident, reads: "There is no need to lament the loss of this flower, for it is the cause of the nation's ruin and the family's downfall. The elders, unaware of yesterday's events, speak of magnolia flowers to everyone they meet.").
After Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty moved the magnolia to the Hou Tu Temple in Yangzhou, this temple was built beside the magnolia pond to draw spiritual energy from heaven and earth. During the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty, bricks from three pagodas were collected to pay homage to the Si and Feng mausoleums. "The Maotang Bridge and pagoda had long since collapsed, but were rebuilt during the Tianqi reign, as recorded by Yang Hongyu" (Quanjiao County Chronicles, 1919). This temple has undergone numerous renovations throughout the ages. It boasts five halls with winding corridors. The first hall is the temple gate, the second is the Heavenly King Hall, the third is the Main Hall, the fourth is the Ksitigarbha Hall, and the fifth is the Three Worlds Hall. Each hall houses a Buddha statue, making it the largest and most numerous temple in Quanjiao. Dedicated to Buddha and Guanyin. Beneath the Great Compassion Tower within the temple stands a thousand-year-old boxwood tree and over a hundred exceptional peonies. Every year when the flowers bloom, scholars gather for "Peony Poetry Readings." Ming Dynasty Jinshi Wu Guolong wrote a poem titled "Three Pagodas Temple": "Occasionally I pass by Xiaoguan to rest, and the cool autumn arrives. Birds fly for pine nuts, and I stay for the fragrance of the trees. I look at the pine trees at the bottom of the tree, and the noise makes me feel the seclusion of the temple. I am even more happy to see the new and sufficient, which is just like the small stream." In the Qing Dynasty, a Taoist monk named Fang Dingguo in white clothes lived here. The Hangzhou prefect Xue Shiyu published a poem "The Taoist Monk in White Clothes", which made the Three Pagodas Temple even more famous.
The temple has a subtropical monsoon climate. There is a thousand-year-old boxwood tree and more than a hundred peerless peonies under the Great Compassion Tower in the temple, which is suitable for spring outings to enjoy the flowers and worship Buddha.
It is recommended to meditate, worship Buddha, enjoy the flowers and take a walk.
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Open all day
The Three Pagodas Temple is a historic Buddhist site dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is known for its three towering pagodas, which were built to honor the Buddha and serve as a symbol of peace. The temple complex is one of the region’s important cultural landmarks.
The Three Pagodas Temple is located in Chuzhou, Anhui. You can reach it by taxi, public bus, or by car from the city center. The temple is not near a metro station, but it’s easily accessible via local transport.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The entrance fee is around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. Online booking is not typically available.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can buy tickets at the entrance without the need for prior reservations.
It will take about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Three Pagodas Temple, depending on how much time you spend admiring the pagodas and the surrounding area.
The main highlights are the three towering pagodas, the temple halls, and the beautiful surrounding gardens. Be sure to also explore the courtyard and the areas where Buddhist ceremonies are held.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in some languages, but it’s recommended to check availability upon arrival for non-Mandarin speakers.
The best photography spots include the views of the Three Pagodas from the courtyard, as well as angles that capture the pagodas with the temple buildings in the background. The surrounding landscape and gardens are also excellent for photography.
Start by entering through the main gate and proceed to the pagodas. Explore each of the pagodas and temple halls, taking time to appreciate the details. Don’t miss the garden area and surrounding pathways for a complete experience.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Three Pagodas Temple. The temple is mainly a daytime attraction.
The temple is less crowded during weekdays, particularly in the mornings. Weekends and public holidays tend to be more crowded.
The temple has basic facilities including toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are no large restaurants or shops, but small local vendors may sell snacks around the temple entrance.
The temple is accessible for elderly visitors and children, but some areas, such as the pagodas and narrow temple halls, may require assistance. It may be challenging for disabled visitors due to uneven paths and stairs.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also available. Credit cards are not commonly accepted in the temple area.
There are a few local eateries near the temple offering traditional Chinese food. You can find snacks and tea near the entrance.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants, but vegan and halal food may be more limited in the area.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses near the temple in Chuzhou city center, with more premium options available in the city’s main hotel district.
Nearby attractions include the Chuzhou Museum and several historic sites within the city. A day trip can include visits to these cultural landmarks, along with a walk through the local parks and gardens.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling religious artifacts, postcards, and local handicrafts. Typical souvenirs include incense, Buddha statues, and traditional Chinese artwork.
After visiting the temple, taxis or local buses are available to continue your trip. The park is accessible by car, so you can also rent a vehicle for further exploration of the region.
