Hanshan Temple

Where ancient bell chimes meet timeless poetry in Suzhou.

07:30-17:30

Last entry: 17:00Opening hours may extend until 18:00 during summer (June 5 - November 9). Please check the temple's notice for the most current information.

About This Place

Founded during the Southern Dynasties, Hanshan Temple gained worldwide fame through the Tang Dynasty poem 'A Night Mooring by Maple Bridge'. This millennium-old temple is not only a key site of the Linji school of Chan Buddhism but also attracts visitors with its unique culture of 'midnight bell ringing' and祈福 traditions. For a more serene experience, consider visiting in the afternoon to avoid the morning tour group crowds.

Highlights

Seek out the stone inscription of the poem 'A Night Mooring by Maple Bridge' and feel its timeless resonance.

Admire the exquisite white marble Sumeru pedestal and the Ming Dynasty gilded iron arhat statues in the Main Hall.

Climb the Bell Tower to personally experience the意境 of 'midnight bell sounds reaching a traveler's boat'.

Stroll through the Stele Corridor to view precious stele fragments by famous calligraphers like Wen Zhengming and Tang Yin.

Appreciate the harmonious blend of the temple's iconic yellow walls and classic Jiangnan garden style.

Best Time to Visit

April-May, September-October

Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather. Visiting after 1:00 PM is recommended to avoid larger crowds. To experience the famous New Year's Eve bell-ringing ceremony, plan your visit for December 31st.

Avoid Chinese Holidays

Strongly avoid Golden Week (Oct 1-7), Chinese New Year (late Jan/Feb), and Labor Day (May 1-5). Crowds are extreme and tickets often sell out weeks in advance.

Ticket Information

CNY 20per person

Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance; no advance booking is required. Free admission is available for children under 6 or under 1.4m tall, seniors aged 65+, persons with disabilities, and active military personnel with valid ID. Half-price tickets are offered to students and seniors aged 60-65. Expect larger crowds during holidays and festivals.