Rules for visiting the Buddhist temple
Chongyuan Temple is an active Buddhist temple and a sacred site for believers. Please remain quiet, do not touch statues or altars, and remove your shoes before entering prayer halls. Flash photography is prohibited.
Important information for foreign guests:
- 📍 Temple address: 1 Chongyuan Temple Street, Yangcheng Lake Peninsula, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China.
- ⏰ Opening hours: Daily 08:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30).
- 🎫 Entrance fee: 80¥ (~11$).
We provide full guidance with explanations on the history and symbolism of the temple. Please dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Chongyuan Temple – Buddha's water abode on Yangcheng Lake
Chongyuan Temple (重元寺) is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Eastern China, located on the scenic Yangcheng Lake peninsula. Only 100 km from Shanghai. In one day you will: see the 33‑meter Buddha statue, the thousand‑armed Guanyin, climb the bell tower, take a boat ride, join a tea ceremony and taste the famous crabs (in season).
Perfect one‑day getaway for families, couples and photographers. Comfortable transfer, Russian guide, everything organised at a relaxed pace.
Atmosphere of the trip
Tour itinerary
- 08:00 – Departure from Shanghai – meeting at Xinzhuang metro station or your hotel. Comfortable minivan. Journey ~2 hours.
- 10:00–12:30 – Chongyuan Temple tour – Heavenly Truth Gate, Hall of Four Heavenly Kings, main hall with 33‑meter Buddha statue, Thousand‑armed Guanyin hall, bell tower climb.
- 12:30–13:30 – Lunch – vegetarian temple cuisine or crab restaurant (in season Sep–Nov).
- 13:30–14:30 – Boat ride on Yangcheng Lake – scenic views of the temple from the water, visit to an islet.
- 14:30–16:00 – Tea ceremony – masterclass in a traditional tea house, tasting of 3 tea varieties.
- 16:00 – Return to Shanghai – departure with one rest stop.
- ~18:30 – Arrival in Shanghai – drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro station.
Detailed schedule
| Time | Stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00 | Departure from Shanghai | Meeting at Xinzhuang metro (north exit). Transfer ~100 km. |
| 10:00–12:30 | Chongyuan Temple | Guided tour with Russian guide through the whole complex. Photos, history, legends. |
| 12:30–13:30 | Lunch | Vegetarian restaurant or crab dinner (in season). |
| 13:30–14:30 | Boat ride | Yangcheng Lake, temple view from the water. |
| 14:30–16:00 | Tea ceremony | Masterclass, Chinese sweets, tea utensils. |
| 16:00 | Departure | Group gathering, return to Shanghai. |
| ~18:30 | Arrival | Drop‑off at Xinzhuang metro. |
💡 Useful tips:
- Dress according to the weather, comfortable shoes.
- Bring some cash for small expenses (souvenirs, donations).
- Flash‑free photography is allowed, but better to refrain inside the Buddha halls.
Price and conditions
Tour price
Metro + taxi
EconomyTrain + taxi, local atmosphere (meeting in Shanghai). Transport costs paid separately.
By car
ComfortSedan (1–3 pax) from Xinzhuang metro. Fuel and tolls already included.
Additional expenses (approx.)
- Entrance ticket to temple80¥ (~$11)
- Boat ride50¥ (~$7)
- Tea ceremony80¥ (~$11)
- Lunch (with crabs)120–150¥ (~$17–21)
* approximate prices, may change slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important information
Prices are valid for 2026. Booking – with a 30% prepayment (PayPal, card). Cancellation 48 hours in advance – 100% refund, less than 24 hours – 50% refund. In case of extreme weather, the boat ride is replaced by a calligraphy workshop.
