Dule Temple

Ticket Price: CNY 30 per person

Opening Hours: 7:00 – 18:00

Dule Temple, situated in the small town of Jixian in Ji County, approximately 113 kilometers from Tianjin city, holds the distinction of being over a thousand years old and stands as the oldest surviving timber structure in Asia. Its name, when translated into English, means “Solitary Joy Temple,” reflecting its historical and cultural significance.

Constructed during the Tang Dynasty, the temple’s origins date back to the reign of Emperor Xuaxong. While no structures from the Tang Dynasty have endured, the oldest surviving components of the temple include the central pavilion, the front gate, and two timber frame buildings. These structures were built during the Liao Dynasty, as part of a renovation effort during the second year of the Tonghe Emperor’s reign.Designed and constructed by skilled local craftsmen and architects, Dule Temple showcases Tang architectural and carving techniques, highlighting the cultural exchange and craftsmanship of the era.

Throughout its long history, Dule Temple has faced various challenges, including invasion and looting. In 1928, it fell victim to an invasion by troops under the command of Sun Dianying, a Chinese warlord, who converted the central hall into barracks and plundered the Qing Tombs.

Despite these trials, Dule Temple remains a testament to China’s rich cultural heritage and architectural legacy, attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at its ancient splendor and historical significance.