Tianjing Pavilion

Introducing Tianjing Pavilion

Tianjing Pavilion is located on Yu'an Mountain east of Erhai Lake in Dali. Here, the mountain suddenly stretches out towards Erhai Lake, surrounded by water on three sides and with steep cliffs. The terrain is dangerous, and it seems that the mountain surrounds the sea, and the clear sea is like a mirror. In the Ming Dynasty, a pavilion was built here and named "Tianjin Pavilion". It became one of the four famous pavilions at Erhai Lake in Dali. It was later destroyed and is now rebuilt on the site of the former Tianjing Pavilion in Dali.

The Tianjing Pavilion, a four-story, eight-sided structure perched atop a mountain, complements the renowned Luoquan Temple in Dali. Luoquan Temple boasts the Main Hall and the Pilu Patriarch Hall. The Tianjing Pavilion scenic area includes the Pavilion, Guanyin Pavilion, Prince Pavilion, Eight Immortals Tower, Luoquan Temple, the ruins of the Luoquan Pagoda, Erhai Rock inscriptions, Guo Moruo's poem inscriptions, and stone mules, each steeped in time-honored legends. This is the perfect vantage point for viewing the scenic beauty of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake in Dali. With luck, you can even witness the Cangshan-Erhai wonders of the Cangshan-Erhai region: the Wangfu Clouds and the Jade Belt Clouds.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours

Tickets

30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

The park opens at 7:30 and the scenic area staff go off work at 18:30, but there are staff on duty.

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Most Popular FAQs for Tianjing Pavilion

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Tianjing Pavilion is a historical landmark located in Suzhou. It was built to celebrate the region’s cultural heritage and offers a serene place for visitors to enjoy natural beauty and classical architecture. The pavilion is an excellent representation of traditional Chinese design, often visited for its architectural beauty and historical importance in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Tianjing Pavilion is located in the heart of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. It is easily accessible by bus or taxi from the city center. Visitors can also walk from nearby attractions such as the Suzhou Museum or Humble Administrator's Garden.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The pavilion is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through official platforms like the Suzhou tourism website.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Booking a day or two in advance is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need approximately 1-2 hours to fully explore the pavilion, including the surrounding gardens and areas for photography.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights include the panoramic views from the pavilion, the beautifully designed architecture, and the surrounding gardens that offer peaceful walking paths and scenic spots for photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are typically available for hire, though they may not be offered in multiple languages. English-speaking guides may be available upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the pavilion itself, where you can capture sweeping views of Suzhou’s skyline and traditional gardens. The surrounding gardens also offer picturesque settings for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the pavilion and its upper viewing deck for panoramic views. Then, stroll through the nearby gardens to enjoy the classical landscape. Finish with a visit to the small museum or cultural exhibits located inside the pavilion.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not currently available at Tianjing Pavilion, and there are no light shows. However, the pavilion's peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent spot to visit during the day for a calm, reflective experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The pavilion can get crowded on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are typically during the early morning or on weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available. There are also small shops where you can purchase souvenirs and local snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The pavilion is accessible for most visitors, including elderly and children. However, the surrounding gardens and walking paths may have uneven terrain, so visitors with mobility challenges should take caution.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at smaller shops within the attraction.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants offer local Suzhou cuisine, including famous dishes such as sweet and sour mandarin fish and dumplings. There are also cafes near the pavilion where you can relax and enjoy a drink.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants, though halal food is not widely available in this area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses near the city center, including international hotel chains like Novotel and Holiday Inn. Smaller, boutique hotels are also available for a more local experience.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Suzhou Museum, Humble Administrator's Garden, and the Lingering Garden. These can all be visited on the same day as Tianjing Pavilion for a full cultural experience in Suzhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the pavilion sell traditional Suzhou items like silk, tea, and handcrafted goods such as fans, paintings, and calligraphy items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Tianjing Pavilion, the best transportation options are taxis or buses to other attractions in Suzhou. The city has a well-connected public transport system, including buses and the metro.