Dongdu Temple in Zhangjiagang

Dongdu Temple in Zhangjiagang

Dongdu Temple in Zhangjiagang is a cultural tourism attraction.

Dongdu Temple is located in Xiyuan Village, Luyuan Town, Zhangjiagang City, within the Dongdu Park scenic area by Provincial Highway 338. Approved for construction by the Zhangjiagang Municipal People's Government in 1994, the temple has gradually taken shape after years of effort. An antique-style archway bearing the three large characters “Dongdu Yuan” (Dongdu Park), inscribed by the venerable Master Xingkong, former abbot of Hanshan Temple in Suzhou, stands at the mountain gate of Dongdu Temple.

Construction of the Tang-style mountain gate, Heavenly King Hall, Mahavira Hall, and east wing rooms began in 2003. The Mahavira Hall enshrines the Three Saints of Huayan, with the Buddha statues crafted using the raw lacquer-liftoff technique—majestic and serene, and exquisitely made. The Eighteen Arhats on both sides are molded in clay and painted, each with a unique and lively expression. The Guanyin on the sea island, holding a golden vase, appears particularly compassionate, while the journey of the Boy Worshiping Guanyin is intricately arranged across the island, with the Twenty-Four Devas lined up on either side.

Any historical account introducing the Tang Dynasty eminent monk Jianzhen’s eastward crossing mentions Huangsipu. It was the departure point for the successful sixth attempt of Monk Jianzhen’s voyage to Japan. Starting his first attempt in 743 AD, Jianzhen made five arduous crossings over the next ten years, all of which ended in failure. The fifth attempt, in particular, put him in grave danger and resulted in an eye disease that eventually blinded him. On November 16, 753 AD, Jianzhen led 24 disciples as they set sail from Huangsipu. After more than a month of rough seas, they finally reached Japan, marking a successful voyage.

His fearless spirit and dedication to spreading Buddhism have been widely celebrated in both China and Japan. Since then, Huangsipu and the name of Monk Jianzhen have been closely linked. Huangsipu has become a symbol of the origin of China-Japan friendship, as well as of success and good fortune. Therefore, Dongdu Temple is also referred to as the Huangsipu Monastery.