Baolin Temple (宝林寺), nestled in Changzhou, Jiangsu, stands as a venerable institution with a rich history dating back to the year 527 AD. Initially established as a royal temple during the Southern Liang Dynasty under Emperor Wu, Xiao Yan, it underwent significant renovations during the Northern Zhou Dynasty (557 AD) under Emperor Xiaomin, who, inspired by the Lotus Sutra, renamed it “Fahua Temple.” Unfortunately, the temple faced destruction during the military turmoil of the Northern Song Dynasty but was painstakingly reconstructed during the Southern Song Dynasty, reclaiming its original name, Baolin Temple.
In its prime, Baolin Temple boasted an impressive 1,408 halls, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Even as late as 1949, over a hundred halls still stood tall. However, in 1958, the temple faced adversity and was dismantled, with only three remaining halls repurposed as storage. A turning point came in December 1995 when Baolin Chan Temple was re-established, embarking on a rejuvenation journey.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Baolin Temple
- Vlog about Baolin Temple
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in South Changzhou
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 16.00; Last admission: 15.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0519-86553984 |
Location and Transportation
Baolin Temple is gracefully situated in Changzhou, Jiangsu, specifically to the west of the historical Chunqiu Yancheng (Spring and Autumn Drowned City) ruins in Wujin District. Found at 98 Hongxi Road, Yancheng Middle Road, this sacred sanctuary offers a serene escape, harmoniously blending ancient spirituality with modern surroundings.
To get there, tourists can take bus 501 or 3511 and get off at Baolin Temple Stop (宝林寺站).
Highlights of Baolin Temple
The newly constructed Baolin Chan Temple encapsulates the architectural style of Tang Dynasty temples while seamlessly integrating modern design elements. Spanning a total area of 9,000 square meters, it includes reconstructed structures like the Tianwang Hall, Mahavira Hall, Arhat Hall, Wanfo Hall, Jingang Hall, and Vegetarian Restaurant, each housing exquisite and distinctive Buddha statues.
Key Structures at Baolin Zen Temple:
Tianwang Hall (Heavenly King Hall): As the first hall within the mountain gate, this hall stands 10 meters high, covering an area of 190 square meters. Inside, it enshrines the Four Heavenly Kings, guardian deities in Buddhist cosmology.
Daxiong Bao Dian (Mahavira Hall): Serving as a grand lecture hall where eminent monks expound on Buddhist scriptures, this expansive structure accommodates nearly a thousand worshippers.
Baolin Guanyin Pagoda: Soaring to a height of 91.9 meters, this pagoda is a remarkable feature. It houses a colossal statue of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, standing at 39.9 meters, surrounded by 9,999 miniature representations of Guanyin. Guanyin is revered in Mahayana Buddhism for her compassionate nature, guiding sentient beings away from suffering towards wisdom.
Buddhist Area: Comprising structures such as Wuguan Hall, Shushi Yuan, Yuan Yuan Hall, Pinming Xuan, Jushi Liao, Meditation Experience Hall, Life Memorial Hall, Merit Pagoda, Side Door, and a Gallery, this area serves various functions within the temple complex.
The meticulous reconstruction of Baolin Chan Temple transforms it into a prominent center for Buddhism in Wujin District. With around 70 resident monks and the capacity to host thousands of lay practitioners and visitors, it becomes a grandiose testament to Buddhist cultural richness and spiritual significance.
Vlog about Baolin Temple
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Transportation Advice: Baolin Zen Temple is a bit far from the city center. It is recommended to take the subway and then use a taxi for the remaining distance.
Ideal Time to Visit in Summer: If visiting during the summer, the temple offers a picturesque setting with full lotus ponds and melodious wind chimes. It’s a tranquil environment that can be enjoyed for an entire day.
Scenic Beauty for Photography: The temple’s interior is picturesque, with dappled sunlight creating a beautiful play of shadows. For the best photography experience, it’s suggested to visit during the early morning or evening when the light is soft and enhances the beauty of the surroundings.
Parking Facilities: Baolin Zen Temple has its own parking lot located right at the temple entrance, making it convenient for visitors traveling by car.
Adorable Cats in the Temple: The temple is home to many friendly cats that are not at all afraid of visitors. Enjoy the company of these feline companions during your visit.
