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Visit the serene Dushu Lake Church to experience its peaceful surroundings. Take time to appreciate the stunning architecture of the church, explore the surrounding parkland, and reflect by the lake. It's also a great spot for quiet contemplation or photography.
Dushu Lake Church, nestled beside the scenic Dushu Lake in Suzhou Industrial Park, boasts a Gothic-style main structure, spanning 5,619 square meters. The church comprises a main hall, a rectory, and a bell tower. The church's distinctive stained glass windows, with their vibrant images, showcase Christian cultural elements.
The main hall's second floor seats 1,000 people, while the first floor features four smaller auditoriums, each accommodating over 200 people. The 51-meter-tall bell tower houses five bronze bells of varying sizes, which can play church music and tell the time in harmony. The underwater cross, a landmark of the church, stands 6.6 meters high and 3.15 meters wide in Dushu Lake. The bronze statue of Jesus, standing in the center of the church square, is 6 meters tall and weighs 3 tons, resting on a 1.8-meter-high white marble pedestal.
This place is very suitable for newlyweds to take wedding photos.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours
free
All day
Dushu Lake Church is a modern Christian church located by Dushu Lake, an area known for its scenic beauty and tranquility. The church is a symbol of spiritual harmony and a place for reflection and peace, offering services and cultural events for the local community and visitors.
The church is located in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, near Dushu Lake. It's accessible by taxi or private car, and public transportation like buses can also take you to nearby areas. The nearest metro station is Suzhou Industrial Park Station, from which a short taxi ride will bring you to the church.
The church is open for visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays or early mornings, as weekends may attract more visitors due to church services.
There is no entrance fee to visit Dushu Lake Church. Visitors are welcome to enter freely, but donations are appreciated to support the church’s activities. Donations can be made on-site, and no advance booking is necessary.
No advance booking is required to visit the church, unless you are attending a special event or service. It's best to check with the church directly for event-specific requirements.
About 1 to 2 hours should be sufficient to explore the church and enjoy a walk around the peaceful surroundings by the lake. If you plan to attend a service or event, additional time may be required.
The main highlight is the beautifully designed interior of the church, which includes stunning stained glass windows and an impressive altar. The lake views from the church are also worth enjoying.
Guided tours are not typically available, but church staff may offer informal explanations of the church's history and significance. Audio guides are not provided, so it's a good idea to explore at your own pace or engage with the locals for additional information.
The best photography spots include the church’s exterior with the backdrop of Dushu Lake, the stained-glass windows inside, and the surrounding parkland. The area by the lake provides a serene and picturesque setting for photos.
Start by exploring the exterior of the church and its surroundings, then enter to admire the interior, including the altar and windows. If time allows, take a walk around Dushu Lake for a relaxing and scenic experience.
Night visits are not generally available. However, the church and its surrounding area are beautifully illuminated at night, offering a peaceful atmosphere for evening strolls. Special events or services may take place on certain evenings, so it's worth checking the church’s schedule.
The church can be moderately crowded on Sundays during services, but weekdays and early mornings are generally less busy, making it an ideal time for those seeking a more peaceful visit.
The church provides basic amenities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no food or water stations within the church, but nearby cafes and shops around Dushu Lake offer refreshments.
The church is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with smooth paths and ramps for easy entry. Children are welcome, and the peaceful environment provides a family-friendly experience.
Cash and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted for donations. However, no payment is required for general admission to the church.
There are several cafes and restaurants near Dushu Lake where you can enjoy local and international dishes. Some popular options include restaurants along the lake offering both Chinese and Western cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several local restaurants near the lake. Halal food options may be more limited, but there are a few Muslim-friendly restaurants in the surrounding area.
Several hotels are located near Dushu Lake, including upscale options like the Crowne Plaza Suzhou and budget-friendly choices such as local guesthouses. Many hotels offer lakeview rooms.
Nearby attractions include the Suzhou Industrial Park, Jinji Lake, and the Suzhou Science and Cultural Arts Center. These can easily be combined with a visit to Dushu Lake Church for a day trip.
There are a few souvenir shops near Dushu Lake that offer traditional Chinese crafts, including ceramics, tea sets, and silk products. You can also find souvenirs featuring Suzhou’s famous gardens and water towns.
After visiting, taxis or private rides are the most convenient way to continue your trip. Public buses and metro stations are also accessible, particularly to explore other parts of Suzhou city.
