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Visit the Dingguang Pagoda, explore the surrounding temple grounds, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Take in the panoramic views from the pagoda and stroll through the nearby forested areas. It's also a great spot for photography.
Dingguang Pagoda Temple, commonly known as "White Pagoda Temple", is located at the western foot of the mountain. It is a palace-style building. It was founded in 905. Two years later, in order to celebrate Zhu Wen's accession to the throne, it was renamed "Wansui Temple" (commonly known as Pagoda Temple).
The existing temple was rebuilt during the Daoguang period of the Qing Dynasty.
The temple consists of three main halls: the Heavenly King Hall, the Main Hall, and the Dharma Rain Hall. Flanking the main hall are the Huafeng Hall, the abbot's chamber, the living room, and the monks' quarters. Next to the temple stands the famous 41-meter-tall, seven-story, octagonal, whitewashed pagoda, the Dingguang Duobao Pagoda. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Directly south of the pagoda lies the Dharma Rain Hall, supported by large bluestone pillars in the shape of coiled dragons. This was once a place where monks meditated, chanted, and practiced their studies. Today, the Dingguang Pagoda Temple has become a worn-out place. Many tiles within the main hall are broken, allowing light to stream in through these fragments.
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about half an hour
free
8:00-17:00
The Dingguang Pagoda Temple dates back to the Tang Dynasty and holds great cultural and historical importance in the region. The pagoda is renowned for its architectural beauty and its association with Buddhist practices in ancient China.
The Dingguang Pagoda Temple is located in Fuzhou, Fujian. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center. There are also buses that connect to the area, though taking a taxi is the most convenient option for tourists.
The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and to enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during summer months.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 RMB. Tickets can be bought at the entrance, and there are no major online platforms for pre-booking.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as the site generally has enough capacity. However, it’s advisable to do so during peak tourist seasons to ensure entry.
You will need about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the temple, visit the pagoda, and walk around the surrounding grounds.
The must-see highlights are the Dingguang Pagoda itself, the serene temple grounds, and the panoramic view from the pagoda. Don't miss the surrounding forest area, which is peaceful and ideal for a leisurely walk.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be some English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available in Chinese, but foreign language options may be limited.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the Dingguang Pagoda, where you can capture beautiful panoramic views of the city and surrounding nature. The temple grounds also provide excellent photo opportunities with ancient trees and tranquil ponds.
Start by entering the temple grounds, visit the pagoda, and then take a walk around the surrounding forest and garden area. The pagoda climb offers stunning views, so it’s best to take your time to explore each level.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Dingguang Pagoda Temple. The site is closed at night, and it’s best enjoyed during daylight hours.
The temple can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a quieter visit, come on a weekday morning or later in the afternoon, especially during the off-season.
The temple has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. You can bring your own water, as there are limited options for food.
The temple grounds are accessible to children and elderly visitors. However, there are steep steps to reach the top of the pagoda, which may be difficult for those with mobility issues.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are commonly used throughout the temple. It's recommended to have a mobile payment option for convenience.
There are a few small local restaurants and tea houses near the temple, offering traditional Fujian cuisine. For more dining options, you can head to Fuzhou city center, which is a short drive away.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some nearby restaurants. Halal food is less common, but you may find some options in larger restaurants in Fuzhou.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels near the temple. For more luxurious options, the Fuzhou city center offers a wider range of accommodations, just a short drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Fuzhou West Lake Park, Three Lanes and Seven Alleys, and the Fujian Museum. All these sites can be easily combined in a day trip around Fuzhou.
There are souvenir shops around the temple selling Buddhist items, local crafts, and traditional Fujian tea sets. Postcards and small trinkets are also available for visitors to take home.
After visiting the temple, you can take a taxi or local bus to other attractions around Fuzhou. The city’s metro system is also convenient for getting around the city center.
