Hanshan Temple (Cold Mountain Temple)

Hanshan Temple, built in Liang Dynasty (502-557) and reconstructed in Tang Dynasty (618-907), derived the name from the abbot, who named Hanshan. Having come through 1400 years’ changes, Hanshan Temple has appealed to a growing number of people for its features and historic significance.

The architectures inside are of great value in art and of unusual features, among which the Hualan Lou is worthy of a visit. The Hualan Lou is supported by only two backbones, which just like the handle of the flower basket. It is a reflection of the Chinese traditional architecture style and sophisticated skills. Surprisingly, the screwing up stairs is holds with only one single column with exquisite carvings on.

Seen from the Maple Bridge, Hanshan Temple impresses people with the yellow walls, green glazed roof and the towering old pines. On entering the temple, the delicate scriptures and magnificent architectures will catch your eyes. What’s more, the meanderings will lead you to the Buddhist halls, where you can admire the Buddhist classics and true-to-life sculptures.
 
The most popular activity held here is the Bell-hitting Ceremony on the December 31-- the eve of the New Year, on when people from near and far come here to experience the 108 hits on the bell and do the count down. The bell is a gift from Japan, which was made together with the one in the Guanshan Temple in Japan in the year 1906.

Note: The best time for traveling here is from April to October. 　

Opening Hours: 7:30 -- 17:00

Ticket Price:
20 CNY for the entrance
Free for the children below 1.2 meters
380 CNY for the Bell-hitting Ceremony on the eve of the New Year

Location: Maple Bridge Town, Suzhou (5 km away from the Suzhou City)

Transportation: Tour Bus No. 3 and Bus 6, 9, 17, 21, 31, 301 and 313 will bring you to Maple Bridge.