Things to Do in Tianjin

Built during the Tang Dynasty (seventh to tenth century) and rebuilt in 984 AD, Dule Temple — also known as the Temple of Solitary Joy — is one of China’s oldest surviving wooden structures. Two of the Buddhist Temple’s oldest structures also rank among the oldest. The Shan Gate, a single-story wooden structure, serves as the south entrance to the temple. The Guanyin Pavilion houses one of the biggest ancient statues of the goddess Guanyin in the country, measuring over 50 feet (16 meters) tall.

While the temple structure is significant for its ancient architecture, the interior impresses with its collection of colorful and intricate frescoes depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology. Guided tours of Tianjin often include a stop at Dule Temple, as well as the Hyangyaguan Great Wall and Imperial Mausoleums.