Brahma Temple Sutra Pillar

Introducing the Brahma Temple Pagoda

The Brahma Temple Sutra Pillar, located at the foot of Fenghuang Mountain in Hangzhou's Shangcheng District, is a treasure trove of Wuyue architecture and sculpture. According to the "Wuyue Beishi," in the second year of the Liang Dynasty's Zhenming reign (916 ) , Qian Liu brought the Sakyamuni Relic Pagoda from the Ashoka Temple in Yan County (now Yin County ) to Hangzhou and built a South City Pagoda to house it. The South City Pagoda was later destroyed by fire. In the third year of the Qiande reign (965 ), the Wuyue King Qian Hongchu rebuilt it and renamed it Brahma Temple.

The Brahma Temple's octagonal pagoda is constructed from a layered structure consisting of a base, main body, canopy, eaves, pediment and banana leaf ornaments, jeweled beads, upturned lotuses, square pillars, and overturned lotuses. The pagoda's crown features a sun and moon jewel, intricately carved with diverse patterns. The base is a three-tiered Sumeru pedestal. The bottom tier features relief carvings depicting the " Nine Mountains and Eight Seas ." The waist tier is decorated with vivid and majestic coiled dragons. Small niches are carved around the short pillars of the upper tier, housing Buddha statues.

The pagoda is inscribed with Buddhist scriptures: the left pagoda is inscribed with the "Great Buddha Crown Dharani Sutra," and the right pagoda is inscribed with the "Great Compassionate Dharani Sutra." Both pagodas are inscribed with an inscription of their establishment, using the same text. The text is in regular script, while the inscription is in running script. The inscription ends with the inscription , " Erected on the 15th day of the first month of the sixth month of the Yichou year of the Qiande reign, on the Jiayin day of the Gengzi year , the third year of the Qiande reign. Erected by Qian Chu, the Great Marshal of the World and King of Wuyue ."

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Suggested playing time: about half an hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Brahma Temple Sutra Pillar

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

The Brahma Temple Sutra Pillar is an important historical monument in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, dating back centuries. It holds religious significance in Buddhism, showcasing ancient stone carving techniques and Buddhist scriptures inscribed on the pillar.

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

Located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Accessible via taxi or local bus. Visitors can also combine metro travel with a short taxi ride depending on the nearest station.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is mild and comfortable for walking around the temple grounds.

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

Entrance fees may range from 20–50 CNY. Tickets are generally purchased on-site, though some official websites or travel apps may offer online booking.

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

Advance booking is usually not required unless visiting during major holidays or religious festivals.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

About 1–2 hours to explore the pillar, temple grounds, and take photos.

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

• The Sutra Pillar itself with its carvings and inscriptions
• Temple halls and courtyards surrounding the pillar
• Gardens and small pavilions in the temple area

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

Guided tours may be available in Chinese; English-speaking guides are limited. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Front view of the Sutra Pillar to capture full carvings
• From the side or slightly elevated temple platforms
• Temple courtyard and garden areas for contextual shots

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter through the main gate, first admire the Sutra Pillar, then explore the surrounding temple halls and gardens in a clockwise route, finishing at any pavilions or viewpoints.

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

Night visits are generally not allowed. Special religious ceremonies may occur on festival days.

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

Moderate crowds. Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded.

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

Basic facilities such as restrooms, benches, and small souvenir shops; refreshments may be limited.

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

Mostly accessible, though some areas may have steps. Elderly and children should exercise caution. Wheelchair access may be limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly accepted for tickets and small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local eateries and cafes are available near the temple for snacks and light meals.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available at nearby temple restaurants; vegan and halal options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several mid-range hotels and guesthouses in Hangzhou are within a short drive from the temple.

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

• Lingyin Temple
• West Lake
• Feilai Peak

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, selling Buddhist-themed items, calligraphy, incense, and small stone carvings.

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

Taxi, ride-hailing apps, or local buses are convenient to reach other Hangzhou attractions or return to the city center.