Qingliang Zen Temple

Introducing Qingliang Zen Temple

Changzhou Qingliang Zen Temple, also known as Duanming Temple, is located at No. 14 Qingliang Road, south of Tongji Bridge in Changzhou City, covering an area of ​​20.1 acres.

Qingliang Temple features a quadrangular courtyard layout. Its main buildings—the Heavenly King Hall, the Main Hall, the Great Compassion Pavilion, the Sea Mirror Hall, and the Sutra Library—are all situated on the central axis. The temple is particularly renowned for its Zen Hall and Sutra Library. The Zen Hall, located to the south of the Sutra Library, is a unique, U-shaped spiral building, boasting a unique architecture and scale rarely seen in other temples. The Sutra Library, with seven bays and three stories, measures 24.983 meters high. It houses the Longzang (Dragon Canon), where monks read the Buddhist canon, lecture on it, study Buddhism, receive ordination, and learn Buddhist rituals. It houses a copy of the Tripitaka bestowed by Emperor Daizong of the Ming Dynasty and another copy of the Tripitaka (Longzang) bestowed by Empress Dowager Cixi. In 1942, 18 retreat rooms were specially constructed to accommodate 18 eminent monks who simultaneously pursued retreat and deep Buddhist study.

The temple has over 600 mu of land and over 300 monks. He founded the Qingliang Buddhist College to train Buddhist monks and opened the Qingliang Primary School, contributing to local education.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Heavenly King Hall, Main Hall, Great Compassion Pavilion, Sea Mirror Hall, and Sutra Library;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Qingliang Zen Temple

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

Qingliang Zen Temple, located in Changzhou, Jiangsu, is an important cultural and religious site. It is known for its connection to Zen Buddhism and has been a place for meditation and spiritual practice for centuries. The temple's design and architecture reflect traditional Chinese Buddhist aesthetics, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s religious heritage.

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

Qingliang Zen Temple is located in the southern part of Changzhou, Jiangsu. You can reach the temple by taking a taxi or bus from the city center. The nearest metro station is about 20 minutes away by taxi. Walking to the temple from the city center may take around 40 minutes, depending on your pace.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon when it is less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.

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

The entrance fee for Qingliang Zen Temple is approximately 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance, and there is no online booking available.

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

There is no need to book tickets in advance. Simply purchase your ticket at the entrance when you arrive. However, it is recommended to visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowd.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 1 to 2 hours to explore Qingliang Zen Temple, depending on how much time you spend meditating and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

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

Key highlights include the main hall where the Buddha statue is located, the serene gardens, the meditation areas, and the traditional Buddhist architecture. The temple’s natural surroundings are also worth exploring, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides may be available for rental at the entrance, offering information in both Mandarin and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the temple gardens, especially during early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. The view of the temple surrounded by trees offers a peaceful and picturesque setting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main hall to pay respects and admire the Buddha statue, then explore the surrounding meditation areas and gardens. Finally, take time to sit in the tranquil outdoor spaces and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at Qingliang Zen Temple. However, the temple offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation during the day. Special Buddhist ceremonies or events may be held on certain days, so it's worth checking the schedule in advance.

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

The temple can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful visit, try to go during weekdays, particularly in the morning when the temple is less crowded.

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

The temple has basic facilities, including clean toilets and water dispensers. There is a small shop selling Buddhist-related items and souvenirs. Rest areas are scattered around the temple grounds for visitors to relax.

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

The temple is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with smooth pathways and ramps in some areas. However, some parts of the temple may require walking up stairs, which could be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay), and credit cards are accepted at the temple’s entrance and shop. It’s recommended to have cash or a mobile payment option available.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and tea houses nearby offering traditional Jiangsu cuisine, including dumplings, noodles, and vegetarian meals. Many restaurants cater to the temple's visitors, offering a peaceful dining experience.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in nearby restaurants, with some offering Buddhist-style vegetarian meals. Halal food options may be limited, so it's best to check in advance or visit vegetarian-friendly establishments.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include the Changzhou Grand Hotel and the Holiday Inn, both of which are located within a short distance from Qingliang Zen Temple. There are also smaller guesthouses and boutique hotels in the area.

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

Nearby attractions include Tianning Temple, the Changzhou Museum, and the scenic Taihu Lake. These can easily be combined into a full day trip to explore both cultural and natural landmarks in Changzhou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The temple’s shop offers a variety of Buddhist-related souvenirs, including incense, prayer beads, Buddha statues, and spiritual books. Local handicrafts and artwork are also available for purchase.

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

After visiting the temple, taxis and public buses are the most convenient options for continuing your trip. You can also head to the nearby Changzhou Railway Station for train connections to other major cities in Jiangsu and beyond.