Taibo Temple

Introducing Taibo Temple

Taibo Temple, also known as Zhide Temple and Rangwang Temple, is located on the banks of the Bodu River in Meicun Town, Wuxi. It was built to commemorate Taibo, the eldest son of Gugongfu (King Tai of Zhou).

The Taibo Temple, built over successive dynasties, is a group of majestic and magnificent buildings. The existing Taibo Temple dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. In front of the temple stands a reflection pond, over which stands a single-arched stone bridge, named "Xianghua Bridge."

To the north of the bridge stands a granite memorial archway inscribed with the Chinese characters "至德名邦". To the north of the stone altar is the Lingxing Gate, which has six stone pillars, 6 meters high, decorated with dragons and cranes.

Lingxing Gate is the first building in the Taibo Temple, with a width of three rooms. Behind it are courtyards with nine rooms on each side. Within the courtyard, there are still two ancient cypress trees and one osmanthus tree.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: Subtropical monsoon climate

Best time to travel: All seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Lingxing Gate

The front part of the temple, the Jinshui River, Xianghua Bridge, and Zhide Mingbang Stone Archway have been transferred from the Meicun Middle School campus to Taibo Temple. To the north of the archway is the Lingxing Gate, which consists of 6 bluestone pillars and a bluestone guard wall.

Zhide Hall

The main building of Taibo Temple. When repairing the Zhide Hall of Taibo Temple, it was discovered that although the building of Zhide Hall was on the central axis, it was slightly tilted 15° to the southwest, and Taibo Tomb also had this feature.

Recommended play time: half a day

Tickets

Adult ticket: 10 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

08:00-16:30 all year round

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Most Popular FAQs for Taibo Temple

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

Taibo Temple is dedicated to Taibo, the legendary founder of the Wu Kingdom in ancient China. It has been a place of spiritual and cultural significance for centuries, attracting both locals and tourists interested in Taoist philosophy and history.

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

Taibo Temple is located in the heart of Wuxi, Jiangsu. Visitors can take a taxi or use local buses to reach the temple, as it's well-signposted. If you're already in central Wuxi, it's a short walk or a quick drive away.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the temple is less crowded and the atmosphere is more serene.

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

The entrance fee is typically 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local ticketing websites, though online booking is not always necessary.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but is recommended during peak tourist seasons. You can book them a few days in advance to ensure entry on busy days.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can expect to spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the temple, depending on your interest in Taoist culture and the surrounding areas.

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

• The main hall housing statues of Taoist gods.
• The tranquil gardens and meditation areas around the temple.
• The sacred relics and artifacts displayed throughout the site.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may be available in English for foreign visitors. It's best to inquire at the entrance for availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The front courtyard of the temple offers a stunning view of the entire temple complex. The surrounding hills also provide excellent photography opportunities for capturing the temple with natural scenery in the background.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by entering the main hall to view the Taoist deities.
• Stroll around the temple gardens for some peaceful moments.
• End with a visit to the temple’s relics hall for a historical perspective on the temple's origins.

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

Night visits and light shows are generally not available, as the temple is primarily a spiritual site. However, during certain festivals, there may be special night events.

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

The temple can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.

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

The temple has basic amenities including public toilets, water dispensers, and some rest areas. There are also small shops selling religious souvenirs and snacks.

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

The temple is generally accessible, though some parts of the site may have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check with staff for specific accommodations for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used, making it convenient for most visitors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby, you can find traditional Chinese restaurants offering local Wuxi cuisine. There are also tea houses within walking distance for a relaxing break.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available, especially in the tea houses. For halal food, there are a few options around the Wuxi city area, though they may require a short drive.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Wuxi Grand Hotel is nearby for a more luxurious stay.
• There are also several budget-friendly guesthouses and boutique hotels within a short distance from the temple.

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

• Wuxi Taihu Lake, a beautiful natural area for a scenic tour.
• The Wuxi Museum for a cultural insight into the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops within the temple selling religious items like incense, Taoist charms, and small statues of deities. Local crafts and tea are also popular souvenirs.

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

You can continue your journey by taxi or bus to nearby attractions such as Taihu Lake or the city center. If you're heading to another city, the Wuxi Railway Station and Airport are accessible by taxi.