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Visit the Dule Temple to admire its ancient architecture, particularly the iconic wooden pagoda, which is one of the oldest in China. Explore the temple’s halls, sculptures, and surrounding gardens. It is a serene place to learn about Buddhist culture and enjoy some peaceful moments. Take time to appreciate the intricate carvings and statues of Buddha throughout the temple.
Dule Temple, also known as the Great Buddha Temple, is located in Jizhou District, Tianjin, China. It is one of the only three remaining Liao Dynasty temples in China and one of the most famous ancient structures still standing. The roof of the Dule Temple's mountain gate features five ridges and four slopes. The eaves, resembling wings, give the building a solemn and lofty presence, showcasing the unique artistic effect of Chinese architecture. It is a National AAAA Scenic Area, one of the first national key cultural relics protection units, and a historical building designated with special protection by the Tianjin Municipal People's Government.
Dule Temple covers a total area of 16,000 square meters. Its main gate is three bays wide and four bays deep, with a two-story structure and a central, hidden level. The temple stands 23 meters tall. The two oldest existing structures within the temple, the main gate and the Guanyin Pavilion, were both rebuilt in 984 AD, the second year of the Tonghe reign of Emperor Shengzong of the Liao Dynasty. In 1930, Dule Temple became renowned both domestically and internationally after being investigated and published by Japanese scholar Sekino Tadashi and Chinese scholar Liang Sicheng.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
mural
The murals of Dule Temple mainly refer to the murals inside the mountain gate and Guanyin Pavilion. The images of the Four Heavenly Kings are painted on the walls on the east and west sides of the mountain gate, and the images of Buddha, Arhats and donors are painted on the walls around the Guanyin Pavilion.
Guanyin Pavilion
The main building, the Guanyin Pavilion, is a three-story wooden structure. Inside, two 16-meter-tall clay statues of Guanyin Bodhisattva stand on a central pedestal, their heads reaching the roof of the third floor. Because they are topped with ten smaller Guanyin heads, they are also known as the "Eleven-Faced Guanyin."
Baoenyuan
The front hall of Bao'en Temple is the Maitreya Hall, with a bronze statue of Maitreya Bodhisattva enshrined in the center. On both sides are statues of the four famous crazy monks in Chinese history, namely Hanshan, Puhua, Fengbo and Jigong. This layout is rare among temples across the country.
It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours
Tickets: 37 yuan, combined tickets: 50 yuan
08:00~17:30
Dule Temple is a significant Buddhist site that dates back to the Tang Dynasty, making it over 1,000 years old. It houses one of the oldest wooden pagodas in China, known for its impressive architecture and historical value. The temple has been a site of religious pilgrimage for centuries, and it remains a key cultural and spiritual symbol in the region.
Dule Temple is located in Jixian County, Tianjin. It is easily accessible by taxi from the city center of Tianjin. You can also take a bus or drive, but public transportation options may be limited, so a taxi or private transport is the most convenient choice.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, especially outside major Chinese holidays. Weekends and holidays can get crowded.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance, and there are options to purchase them online for convenience, especially during peak seasons.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak travel seasons and holidays. Booking 1-2 days ahead can help avoid long waiting times.
It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the temple thoroughly, including the main halls, pagoda, and gardens. If you plan to meditate or take photos, allocate more time.
The must-see highlights include the ancient wooden pagoda, the main hall with intricate Buddha statues, the surrounding peaceful gardens, and the scenic views of the area from the temple grounds.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides in Chinese and English are also offered, allowing you to explore the temple at your own pace with additional insights into the temple’s history and architecture.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the pagoda, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding area. The main hall and the surrounding gardens also provide excellent photo opportunities, especially the traditional wooden architecture and the peaceful atmosphere.
Start your visit with the main hall, then move towards the wooden pagoda to enjoy the architecture and surrounding views. Don’t miss the sculptures and carvings scattered around the temple grounds. Finish by walking through the tranquil gardens to soak in the serene atmosphere.
Night visits are not common, and there are no light shows. However, the temple’s peaceful atmosphere and ancient charm make it a serene spot for an early morning or late afternoon visit.
The temple can get crowded during weekends, holidays, and major religious festivals. It is least crowded during weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Basic facilities like clean toilets and rest areas are available. There are small shops selling souvenirs and snacks near the entrance. Water and basic refreshments can also be purchased inside.
The temple is accessible to elderly and children, though some areas may have uneven ground or stairs. Some ramps and handrails are available to help visitors with limited mobility. It’s advisable to check for specific accessibility details on-site.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted at most facilities within the temple.
There are food stalls and small restaurants near the temple offering local snacks and drinks. For a full meal, there are restaurants in the nearby towns of Jixian.
Vegetarian food options are available in nearby eateries, but vegan or halal options may be limited. It’s recommended to check with the staff about specific dietary needs.
There are several hotels in Jixian County, including mid-range options like the Jixian County Hotel and budget inns for more affordable stays.
Other nearby attractions include the Tianjin Water Park, the Ancient Culture Street, and the Ferris Wheel. These can be easily combined for a full day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling religious items such as statues of Buddha, incense, and prayer beads. Local handicrafts are also available for purchase.
After visiting Dule Temple, taxis or buses are available to take you to other attractions in Tianjin. Alternatively, you can return to the city center by taxi or metro for further exploration.
