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The Temple of the Sea God, located outside the south gate of Yanguan Town, Haining City, Jiaxing City, Zhejiang Province, is a vital component of the seawall. Built by imperial decree by Emperor Yongzheng of the Qing Dynasty, it is the largest remaining example of imperially commissioned official architecture in the Jiangnan region. Dedicated to the Sea God, this temple held such high status that it was nicknamed the " Forbidden City of Jiangnan . "
The Temple of Poseidon exemplifies the most sophisticated carving techniques and cultural heritage of Chinese architecture . Its meticulous construction features columns, steps, and stone balustrades crafted entirely from white marble. The paintings within the temple are also inspired by traditional motifs used exclusively by Chinese royalty.
The most imposing building is the main hall of the Temple of the Sea God, modeled after the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City, earning it the nickname " Silver Throne Hall . " Only the stone archway, stone lions , stone plaza, Qingcheng Bridge, the main gate, the main hall, and the Imperial Stele Pavilion remain , still showcasing the grandeur and majesty of the imperial oversight.
The weather is suitable for all seasons. Every year during the Tide Watching Festival, the Sea God Temple will hold the folk activity of " Tide God Worship "
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
15 yuan/person
8:00-16:30
The Haining Sea God Temple is an ancient site dedicated to the Sea God, who is believed to protect sailors and fishermen. The temple holds great significance to local communities involved in maritime activities and reflects the area's strong historical connection with water culture.
The Haining Sea God Temple is located in Haining, Zhejiang Province. You can reach the temple by taking a bus or taxi from Haining city center. The nearest train station is Haining West, from which taxis can be used for the remaining distance. Walking is also possible if you are close by.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or weekdays to avoid the crowd. It is also a peaceful spot during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn.
The entrance to the Sea God Temple is free, although donations are encouraged. There may be small fees for special exhibitions or events held at the temple. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site.
No advanced booking is required for general admission. However, if you are planning to visit during the Sea God Festival or any special events, it's recommended to check for event-specific bookings in advance.
You will need around 1-2 hours to fully explore the temple and its surroundings, including time for a leisurely walk through the gardens and taking in the scenery.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in English for non-Mandarin speaking visitors, but availability may vary. It's best to inquire on-site.
Start by entering the main hall and exploring the temple. Then take a stroll through the gardens and riverside area, finishing with a visit to the maritime exhibits. You can spend some time relaxing by the water afterward.
Night visits and light shows are generally not available, but special tours may occur during the Sea God Festival. These typically involve rituals and cultural performances, adding a unique experience to your visit.
The temple can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning or during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn.
There are basic facilities available, including public toilets and water stations. There are also small shops around the temple selling local snacks and souvenirs. Rest areas are available in the garden for relaxation.
The temple is accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some of the paths may be narrow. There are no major barriers for disabled visitors, but it's advisable to check with local staff if you need assistance with accessibility.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's a good idea to have cash or use mobile payment options.
There are a few small restaurants and cafes around the temple offering local dishes, snacks, and tea. For more dining options, visitors can head into the center of Haining city.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants, but halal food options may be limited in the area.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses near the temple. For more upscale accommodations, visitors can find hotels in the city center of Haining, which is about 20 minutes away by car.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling religious artifacts, traditional crafts, and local snacks. Typical souvenirs include Sea God statues, postcards, and local handmade products.
Taxis and buses are available for further travel. Haining's public transportation network is convenient, and visitors can use buses or taxis to continue their journey to other attractions or nearby cities.
