Bao`en Temple (Bào`ēn Sì), whose name translates to "Temple of Repaying Kindness" or "Temple of Gratitude," was erected in 237 AD by the decree of Sun Quan, the powerful ruler of the Wu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 AD). According to historical records, the temple`s construction was an act of filial piety: Sun Quan dedicated it to his mother, seeking to immortalize her virtues and self-sacrifice.
At that time, Suzhou (then known as Wuxian) was a strategic center of southern China, and the establishment of Bao`en symbolized not only personal gratitude but also the desire to strengthen the spiritual foundations of the state. The temple quickly became a stronghold of Buddhism, attracting monks and scholars from across the region.
Trials of Time
Over its 17-century history, Bao`en suffered repeatedly from wars and fires. It endured particularly heavy losses:
• In the 10th century—during the internal strife of the Five Dynasties period;
• In 1860—when Suzhou was ravaged by the Taiping Rebellion (during which ancient manuscripts and part of the pagodas were burned).
Yet each time, the temple was restored, preserving its architectural harmony and spiritual continuity. The most recent large-scale restoration was completed in the 2010s, when specialists meticulously recreated even the finest details of the Ming and Qing dynasty carved panels.
To this day, ancient traditions are preserved here:
• Sutra chanting: In the main hall, the texts of the "Lotus Sutra" and the "Diamond Sutra" are recited daily in classical Chinese.
• Tea ceremonies: Meditative tea gatherings are held in the temple garden under the guidance of Chan (Zen) monks.
• Festivals: The most solemn celebration is the Buddha`s Birthday (8th day of the 4th lunar month), when thousands of pilgrims participate in lantern processions.
Architectural Ensemble of Bao`en Temple
Bao`en Temple is not just a single building but an entire complex, including a pagoda, prayer halls, sculptures, and a picturesque garden.
1. Bao`en Pagoda
The temple`s centerpiece is a nine-story pagoda standing 76 meters tall, built during the Song Dynasty (10th–13th centuries). It is designed in the traditional Chinese style, featuring curved roofs, intricately carved beams, and bells that chime in the wind. From the top level, visitors enjoy a breathtaking view of Suzhou.
2. Main Halls of the Temple
• Hall of the Heavenly Kings (Tianwang Dian): The first hall upon entry, housing statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, who protect the temple from evil forces.
• Hall of the Great Sage (Daxiong Baodian): The central sanctuary, featuring three golden statues of the Buddhas of the Past, Present, and Future.
• Guanyin Hall: Dedicated to the bodhisattva of compassion, it contains a multi-armed sculpture of Guanyin.
• Lotus Hall: A meditation space adorned with images of Buddhas and arhats.
3. Sculptures and Relics
The temple safeguards unique Buddhist artifacts:
• A 4-meter-tall wooden carving of the Thousand-Armed Guanyin.
• Stone steles inscribed with sutras from the Ming Dynasty.
• Statues of the 18 Arhats (enlightened disciples of the Buddha).
4. Garden and Lake: Nature as Part of the Temple
The temple grounds are surrounded by bamboo forests and an artificial lake teeming with koi fish. Pathways for meditation wind through the area, while stone lanterns and pavilions stand in the shade of the trees.
