Live Your Best Lives
At Ashoka Stupa, visitors can enjoy the historical and architectural beauty of the stupa, take part in peaceful meditation or prayer, and explore the serene surrounding areas. The site also offers opportunities for photography and reflection on Buddhist culture.
The Ashoka Pagoda in Lianyungang is the tallest and oldest existing pagoda in northern Jiangsu. An inscription embedded in the pagoda's interior during its construction records the presence of a pagoda previously built on the site, which was considered the second tallest in China during the Tang Dynasty. This demonstrates the importance of this pagoda in my country's history of pagoda construction.
The Ashoka Stupa has been a major attraction in Yuntaishan since ancient times. It was known as "Ancient Stupa Piercing the Clouds" in the Ming Dynasty and "Reunion of Stupa's Shadow" in the Qing Dynasty. It boasts five key features: first, its antiquity; second, its deep-rooted character, having survived the 8.5 magnitude earthquake in Tancheng in 1668, remaining unbending; third, its magnificent form, complemented by the vibrant scenery of the mountains and waters; fourth, its ability to be both viewed and climbed offers visitors the opportunity to participate; and fifth, its captivating myths and legends, doubling the enjoyment of a visit.
Built in 1024 AD during the first year of the Tiansheng reign of the Song Dynasty, the pagoda stands over 40 meters tall and boasts nine levels and eight sides. Constructed near the reservoir where Huaguo Mountain meets the mountain, it is a significant scenic spot and historical site in the Yuntaishan Scenic Area.
The temperate monsoon climate offers distinct four seasons. The towering buildings are surrounded by mountains, and the nine-story pagoda towers into the heavens. From above, it appears to have descended from the sky, piercing the clear sky. From below, it appears to have emerged from the earth, its halls brimming with sea. It's a great place to visit in all four seasons.
The Ashoka Stupa has eight sides and nine levels, reaching a height of 40.58 meters. It features an inner corridor with a central pillar and an octagonal caisson with a chessboard pattern at its summit. Its outer contours are slightly curved. Six inscribed tablets are embedded in the walls of the stupa. Twenty-six cultural relics, including a stone casket, an iron box, a silver coffin, a gold coffin, a silver shrine, a silver box, a "Buddha's true body relic," a "tooth of Ashoka," and coins from the Northern Song Dynasty, were unearthed from the "dark room" on the first floor.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
free
Open all day
The Ashoka Stupa is an ancient Buddhist monument, believed to be one of the relics associated with Emperor Ashoka, a prominent figure in spreading Buddhism. It holds significant cultural and religious value, especially for those following the Buddhist faith.
The Ashoka Stupa is located in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province. It can be reached by taxi or bus from the city center, or via private car. Public transportation options may be available, but taxis are the most convenient choice.
The Ashoka Stupa is open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful visit.
The entrance fee is around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site entrance. It is not necessary to buy tickets online in advance.
There is no need to book tickets in advance. You can buy tickets directly at the entrance when you arrive.
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Ashoka Stupa, including time for prayer, photography, and exploring the surrounding grounds.
The main highlight is the Ashoka Stupa itself, a towering Buddhist monument. Visitors should also explore the nearby meditation halls and scenic spots offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides may not be available in English, but the peaceful environment is well-suited for self-guided exploration.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the stupa and surrounding platforms, where visitors can capture panoramic views of the area and the stupa itself against the backdrop of nature.
Start by exploring the Ashoka Stupa, then visit the surrounding meditation areas. Finish with a walk around the scenic spots for a complete visit.
Night visits are not available, and there are no light shows. The best experience is during the day when the stupa and surrounding areas are well-lit by natural light.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no major shops or food stalls inside the area, so it’s recommended to bring water and snacks if needed.
The area is relatively accessible, with some paved paths for easier navigation. However, there may be some uneven terrain in certain parts, so elderly or disabled visitors should proceed with caution.
Cash is generally preferred for purchasing tickets, though mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted at some locations around the site.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the Ashoka Stupa complex. However, there are local eateries in the nearby town of Lianyungang that offer traditional Chinese meals and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants. Vegan and halal food may be more limited, but some restaurants may offer vegetarian dishes upon request.
There are several hotels near the city center of Lianyungang, including budget options and mid-range accommodations. It's recommended to stay in the city and travel to the stupa for a day trip.
Nearby attractions include the Lianyungang City Museum and the East China Sea beaches. These can be easily combined with a visit to the Ashoka Stupa for a fulfilling day trip.
There are no major souvenir shops at the Ashoka Stupa itself, but small local shops near the entrance sell Buddhist-themed souvenirs such as incense, prayer beads, and small statues.
Taxi or local buses are the best options for continuing your trip from the Ashoka Stupa to other parts of Lianyungang or nearby attractions. Public transport options are available at the entrance.
