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Jilin Catholic Church is located at No. 3 Songjiang Road, Jilin City, Jilin Province, near the north end of Jilin Bridge and facing the Songhua River to the south.
In the 28th year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu (1902), the land currently occupied by the Bishop Party was purchased and planning for the construction of a Catholic church began. Construction began in 1917 and took 10 years to complete.
The church yard covers a total area of 6,449 square meters, with a building area of 800 square meters and a usable area of 536 square meters.
The Catholic Church in Jilin is named "Sacred Heart of Jesus Church". It is a typical Gothic building. The main body consists of the church and the bell tower, and the plan is slightly cross-shaped.
All buildings are brick and stone arched buildings, without wooden beams or columns. The bricks used are specially fired local green bricks with a length of 31 cm and a width of 25 cm.
All the stones are made of high-quality granite collected from Ashhada, 10 kilometers southeast of Jilin City, and then carefully carved and polished into patterned stone pillars, stone lintels, stone window sills, etc. of various specifications.
Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
One hour
free
8:00-18:00
Jilin Catholic Church, also known as the Church of the Sacred Heart, was built in the early 20th century by French missionaries. It stands as an important landmark of both religious and historical significance in Jilin City, showcasing the influence of Catholicism in Northeast China during the colonial era. The church remains a symbol of faith and cultural exchange in the region.
Jilin Catholic Church is located in the heart of Jilin City, easily accessible by taxi, bus, or on foot from central locations. The church is situated on the main road and is well-known among locals, making it easy to navigate.
The church is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Entrance to Jilin Catholic Church is free of charge. However, if you wish to attend a special mass or event, it is advisable to check with the church for any associated fees or registration requirements.
No advance booking is required for regular visits. However, if you plan to attend a special event or mass, it’s recommended to check with the church ahead of time to secure a spot.
You can fully explore Jilin Catholic Church in about 1 to 2 hours, including time for prayer or reflection and a brief walk around the surrounding area.
Guided tours are not always available, but church staff may provide informal guidance if requested. Most visitors explore the church on their own. Information signs are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides may be available upon request for larger groups.
Begin your visit by exploring the church's exterior and architectural details. Enter the church and take time to admire the stained-glass windows and the altar. If you wish, you can stay for a prayer or attend a service.
There are no night visits or light shows at Jilin Catholic Church. However, the church may host special events during religious holidays, such as Christmas or Easter, which are worth attending.
The church is relatively quiet on weekdays, particularly in the morning. It tends to get busier on weekends, especially during mass times, so visiting during weekday mornings is ideal for a more peaceful experience.
Basic facilities, such as toilets, are available near the entrance. There are no food or water stalls inside the church, but there are local eateries nearby where visitors can rest and refresh.
The church is accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, there are some steps inside, so visitors with disabilities may need assistance. It is recommended to inquire ahead for accessibility details if you have specific concerns.
No payment is required for entry, so cash or card is not necessary. Donations may be accepted via cash or mobile payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay.
There are various local restaurants and cafes near Jilin Catholic Church where you can try traditional Jilin dishes. Options for snacks and refreshments are also available within walking distance.
Vegetarian options are available at many nearby restaurants. Vegan and halal options might be more limited but can be found with a bit of local inquiry.
Several hotels are within walking distance, including mid-range and budget options. Popular hotels like the Jilin International Hotel offer convenient access to the church and nearby attractions.
While there are no souvenir shops inside the church, nearby stores offer religious artifacts, such as rosaries, crosses, and postcards, which make for meaningful souvenirs.
After visiting the church, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to other nearby attractions. Local buses are frequent, and taxis are readily available for further exploration of Jilin City.
