Wuxi Ashoka Pillar

Wuxi Ashoka Pillar

The Ashoka Pillar is a rare stone column in China, hand-carved from a single piece of granite. It stands 16.9 meters tall and weighs over 200 tons.

Legend has it that Emperor Ashoka, feeling deep remorse in his later years after being enlightened by monks, converted to Buddhism. To promote the Dharma, he erected pillars across various regions.

The pillar is adorned with four stone lions facing the four cardinal directions—east, south, west, and north—symbolizing the spread of Buddhism in all directions.

The Chinese and Sanskrit characters "Ashoka Pillar" inscribed on the column were penned by the contemporary master of Sinology, Ji Xianlin. It is a rare masterpiece in China’s sculptural art.

Suggested Visit Duration

30 minutes

Transportation

Located within the Lingshan Grand Buddha Scenic Area in Wuxi. Modes of transportation are as follows:

1. Take bus 88 from Wuxi Railway Station and get off at Bibo Mountain Villa Station. The ride takes approximately 2.5 hours. After disembarking, walk about 300 meters to reach the Lingshan Scenic Area, then proceed on foot to the pillar.

2. Take bus 89 from Wuxi Central Station and get off at Bibo Mountain Villa Station. The ride takes approximately 2.5 hours. After disembarking, walk about 300 meters to reach the Lingshan Scenic Area, then proceed on foot to the pillar.

Ticket

Included in the ticket for the Lingshan Grand Buddha Scenic Area.

Location

Mashan Lingshan Road, Binhu District, Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province