Dajue Temple (大觉寺), located in Yixing, Jiangsu Province, China, is a significant Zen Buddhist temple of the Linji school. Its history dates back to the years between 1265 and 1274, boasting over seven centuries of rich heritage. It also holds special significance as the place where Master Xingyun, the founder of Foguangshan, entered monastic life.
In 1989, Master Xingyun returned to Yixing and was disheartened to find the temple in ruins. Determined to restore the ancestral place, he embarked on a mission. In 2005, through a series of auspicious events, he successfully rebuilt Dajue Temple on the eastern side of Hengshan Reservoir, nestled amidst the picturesque terrain of Jilong Mountain. The temple harmoniously blends modern and ancient cultural elements, featuring architecture reminiscent of antiquity. It serves as a beacon for the propagation of Buddhism in the human realm, encapsulating the essence of spirituality and tradition in one serene location.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Dajue Temple
- Vlog about Dajue Temple
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Yixing
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0510-87376181 |
Location and Transportation
Dajue Temple is located at 66 Xianglin Road, Xizhu Town, Yixing, Wuxi. Situated amidst picturesque mountains and waters, the temple offers a serene and beautiful setting for visitors. To reach Dajue Temple, you can take Bus 202, 351, or 802 and get off at the Yunhu Scenic Area Stop (云湖景区站), which is in close proximity to the temple.
Highlights of Dajue Temple
Foguang Tower
The Foguang Tower, located within Dajue Temple, is a two-story structure with a profound spiritual and cultural significance. The first floor serves as the Guanyin Hall, where the primary deity enshrined is the Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva. The thousand arms symbolize boundless compassion, extending help to all sentient beings, while the thousand eyes represent limitless wisdom, overseeing the entire universe and worldly matters. Surrounding the walls are over a thousand statues of Guanyin, offering blessings and protection to all.
The second floor of the Foguang Tower houses the Zen History Museum, Art Gallery, Calligraphy Exhibition, and an immersive theater known as the “Three Good Halls,” providing visitors, including families, with an enriching cultural and spiritual journey. The Zen History Museum, in particular, chronicles the life of Master Xingyun, from his birth to his monastic journey, his travels from the mainland to Taiwan, and his return to the mainland to revitalize the ancestral temple, as well as his contributions to cross-strait cultural exchanges.
Xiangyun Pavilion
Xiangyun Pavilion, located within Dajue Temple, is a multi-purpose structure with two distinct levels. The first floor houses the “Dishui Shufang” or “Dripping Water Bookstore,” creating a tranquil environment for visitors to engage in literary pursuits, enjoy the aroma of coffee, and take a break. Opening hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
The upper levels, from the second to the fifth floor, serve as residential spaces, providing accommodations for those seeking a serene and immersive experience within the temple grounds.
White Pagoda
The White Pagoda at Dajue Temple stands tall at 108 meters, with 15 floors that embody the essence of Buddhism. This magnificent structure is designed around the three treasures of Buddhism: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. Within its elegant architecture, you’ll find the Thousand Buddha Hall, the Dharma Treasure Hall for studying scriptures, and the Sangha Treasure Hall equipped with versatile audio-visual facilities. Together, these elements create an immersive environment where visitors can deeply appreciate the profound wisdom of Buddhism. The White Pagoda is not only a visual marvel but also a spiritual haven that invites contemplation and understanding of the Buddhist teachings.
Vlog about Dajue Temple
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Vegetarian Restaurant and Cozy Café:
- Upon entering the main gate, walk a bit forward, and on the right-hand side, you’ll find a vegetarian restaurant offering noodle dishes for 10 yuan per bowl with delicious flavors.
- On the left-hand side, there is a warmly decorated café called “滴水书坊” (Dishui Shufang), providing an inviting space to enjoy coffee and read books.
Shaded Seating with Stone Tables:
- Under the shade of trees, there are numerous stone tables and chairs, creating a comfortable spot for visitors to rest, have tea, and enjoy the mountain breeze.
Continuation to Yunhu Scenic Area:
- After concluding your visit to Dajue Temple, cross the road just outside the main gate to enter the Yunhu Scenic Area.
- The scenic area is within walking distance, making it a convenient continuation of your exploration.
