Magnolia blossoms adorn the Twin Pagodas, spring fills the garden.

The Suzhou Twin Pagodas, also known as the Luohanyuan Twin Pagodas, were built during the Northern Song Dynasty, over a thousand years ago. Donated by the Wu County brothers Wang Wenhan and Wang Wenhua, one is named the Sarira Pagoda and the other the Merit Pagoda, hence they are also known as the "Brother Pagodas." The Twin Pagodas are not only a testament to history but also an important symbol of Suzhou's ancient city.

The two pagodas are only about 20 meters apart, a unique construction nationwide for such closely built towers. Located in the bustling city, Shuangta Temple possesses a unique charm that invites tranquility. The environment within is serene. Though the courtyard is small, it carries a profound sense of history. Besides the pagodas, some stone sculptures damaged during the Cultural Revolution are also worth seeing (Photos 14–17). Thus, the temple also houses the Suzhou Stone Sculpture Art Museum (below Photo 1).

The four tall magnolia trees surrounding the pagodas (visible from outside the temple, Photos 1 and 2) are a highlight. When the magnolias bloom, the blossoms against the blue sky, yellow towers, black tiles, and white walls create an elegant and tranquil scene reminiscent of a traditional Chinese painting (Photos 1–9). When we arrived, the magnolias were past their peak, and fallen white petals covered the tiles (Photos 8 and 9).


📝Note: If you're planning to see the magnolias, it's best to wait until next year.


📌Address: 22 Dinghui Temple Lane, Fenghuang Street, Suzhou.
⏰Opening hours: 8:00 am–4:30 pm (Entry not permitted after 4:00 pm).
💸Ticket price: 8 CNY/person
🚌Transportation: Take bus routes You 2, 40 West Line, 55, 202, 89, or 811 to Shuangta Station🚅. The temple is within walking distance.

Post by David#Adams | Mar 13, 2025