Chongjiao Xingfu Temple Pagoda

Chongjiao Xingfu Temple Pagoda

Chongjiao Xingfu Temple Pagoda is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

Chongjiao Xingfu Temple Pagoda is located to the east of the ancient city area of Changshu, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province.

Originally named Chongjiao Pagoda and commonly known as Square Pagoda, Chongjiao Xingfu Temple Pagoda was first built in the fourth year of the Jianyan era during the Southern Song Dynasty (1130). At that time, a monk named Wen Yong proposed, “The layout of this town has higher terrain on the right and lower on the left, disrupting the proper balance between host and guest. A pagoda should be erected at the left angle of the Azure Dragon to restore harmony.” The then-county magistrate Li approved the idea and ordered the construction of the pagoda. It underwent several renovations during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. During the Xianfeng era of the Qing Dynasty, the temple was destroyed but the pagoda survived. In September 1963, major repairs were carried out again. Although the Square Pagoda was built in the Song Dynasty, it still follows the architectural style of Tang Dynasty square pavilion-style wooden pagodas. The pagoda has nine stories and a helmet-shaped roof, with a brick-and-wood structure that tapers toward the top, giving the facade a parabolic contour. In 1978, pagoda bells were installed. In the same year, Zhao Puchu, then President of the Buddhist Association of China, inscribed the name “Chongjiao Xingfu Temple Pagoda,” which was engraved on the mountain gate. In April 1984, the original name “Square Pagoda” was restored. In the 1990s, a rose garden was added within the grounds, featuring exquisitely beautiful blooms in a variety of forms. A corridor was later built in the rear courtyard, along with pavilions, halls, a lotus pond, rockeries, the Changshu City Stone Inscription Museum, and the Changshu City Celebrity Hall.

In 2006, Chongjiao Xingfu Temple Pagoda, as an ancient building from the Song Dynasty, was included in the sixth group of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units by the State Council.

Further reading:

· First and Second Groups of Jiangsu Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units

· Sixth Group of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units