Dinglin Temple Pagoda

Introducing Dinglin Temple Pagoda

Dinglin Temple Pagoda is located at the northwest foot of Fangshan Mountain in Jiangning District, Nanjing City. It is also called Fangshan Leaning Pagoda. The tower body tilts 7.59 degrees to the north, which exceeds the inclination of the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. It is still known as the "world's first leaning tower."

The Dinglin Temple Pagoda, built in 1173 AD, the ninth year of the Qiandao reign of the Southern Song Dynasty, stands approximately 14.50 meters tall. It is a seven-story, eight-sided brick pagoda with a simulated wooden structure. The interiors of the ground and second floors are square, while those above the third floor are cylindrical. A wooden frame supports the brake rod on the fifth floor. The ground floor has a door only on the south side, with a central stone Sumeru pedestal. Buddhist niches are located on the east, west, and north sides. All other floors have doors on all four sides. The pagoda's main structure is constructed of brick, with columns, beams, and brackets imitating wooden structures.

In the 16th year of the Yuanjia reign of the Liu Song Dynasty in the Southern Dynasties (439 AD), a foreign monk (from Kashmiri) built the Shangdinglin Temple on Zhongshan Mountain. Later, the Shangdinglin Temple was destroyed in war. In the 9th year of the Qiandao reign of the Southern Song Dynasty (1173 AD), another monk came to the northwest foot of Fangshan Mountain in today's Jiangning District and built the Xiadinglin Temple.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The leaning tower in Dinglin Temple was first built in the Southern Song Dynasty. It is a seven-story, eight-sided brick tower with an imitation wooden structure. During its heyday, the temples built around the tower were also very large. However, due to constant wars, all we can see now is the dilapidated Fangshan Leaning Tower.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Dinglin Temple Pagoda

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

The Dinglin Temple Pagoda is an important historical and cultural landmark in Nanjing, representing the rich Buddhist heritage of the region. The pagoda has stood for centuries, serving as both a religious and architectural symbol of the city.

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

The Dinglin Temple Pagoda is located in the Nanjing area of Jiangsu Province. It can be reached by public transport including buses and taxis, or by walking from nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

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

There is a small entrance fee to visit the temple and pagoda. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through the temple's official website for special events.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for general visits. However, it is recommended to book in advance for special tours or during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting the temple and pagoda takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the grounds and admiring the views from the pagoda.

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

The must-see highlights include the main pagoda, the surrounding gardens, and the historical relics and Buddhist statues in the temple. The panoramic views from the top of the pagoda are also not to be missed.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in English and Mandarin for self-guided visits.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the top of the pagoda, where you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, as well as the temple's tranquil gardens.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the temple grounds and gardens, then climb the pagoda for the best views. Finish your visit by participating in a quiet moment of meditation or reflection in the temple.

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

Currently, night visits or light shows are not available at the Dinglin Temple Pagoda. Special tours may be available during cultural festivals or certain holidays.

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

The temple can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, particularly early in the morning.

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

The temple provides basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no food or drink services within the temple, but nearby shops offer refreshments.

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

The temple is accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, the climb up the pagoda may be challenging for disabled visitors, as there are many stairs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the temple, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted at all locations within the temple.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no restaurants or cafes inside the temple, there are several options nearby, offering both local and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, but halal food may be limited in the immediate area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels like the Nanjing Grand Hotel and Crowne Plaza Nanjing are located nearby, offering convenient access to the temple and other local attractions.

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

Nearby attractions include Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Nanjing Museum, and the Confucius Temple. These can easily be combined into a full day of sightseeing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the temple offering traditional Buddhist items, such as incense, statues, and prayer beads, as well as local handicrafts.

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

Public transportation options, such as buses, taxis, and the metro, are readily available to continue your trip to other attractions in Nanjing.