Dragon Boat Festival at Dinghui Temple

【Opening】: During the Dragon Boat Festival, Dinghui Temple was unusually quiet, free from its usual bustle. A few visitors came to pray, spending 2 yuan to buy incense offerings packed in red bags (shown in Figure 9). Stone lion couplets flanked the entrance gate, welcoming those with destined connections, while the plaque above bore the temple's name in golden characters. Inside, visitors first pass the incense hall, then the Heavenly King Hall, and finally the Grand Hall, where sutras are chanted. Two ginkgo trees over 200 years old stand on either side of the three-courtyard complex. A return visit on a rainy day is highly recommended.

🛬【Itinerary】: The temple is small but vibrant with incense smoke. A quick stroll takes about 10 minutes. Nearby attractions include the Wu Zuoren Art Museum, the Twin Pagodas, and the Twin Pagodas Market, where several popular Suzhou-style restaurants are worth exploring.

🚌【Transport Tips】: Public bikes (Suzhou's green bikes, free for the first hour) are available at the intersection of Dinghui Temple Alley and Fenghuang Street. You can ride directly to the alley entrance, where parking is available. Alternatively, take the bus to the West Shizi Street stop near Suzhou University Affiliated Hospital or the small Twin Pagodas sign on the east side of Fenghuang Street—avoid the main Twin Pagodas bus stop. Note: The cobblestone alley is bumpy for cycling; walking is advised.

Post by EpicWanderings | May 31, 2025