West Garden Temple (Xiyuan Temple) covering an area of 10 mu (about 1.6 acres) in Suzhou was constructed in the Yuan Dynasty and features sacred temples and classical gardens. It is generally called of Jiezhuanglv (commandment as its banner) Temple and Fangsheng (free captive animals) Pond in the west garden.

   West Garden Temple is the largest temple in Suzhou City. It blends garden art and temple art. In the temple you can see the ancient trees flourish, the temple houses layer upon layer, the bending river, the green grass, hear the birds singing and smell the fragrant flowers. What a splendid spectacle it is!

   Now let's come to the scenic spots located on the middle axis line of West Garden Temple. From south to north along the line are Arches (Paifang) of three rooms, Mountain Gate, Jingang (diamond) Temple, Fangsheng Pond, Daxiong (grand) Palace, and Sutra Collection Pavilion. When you come out of the Jingang Temple, you can find Arhat Temple on your left and Kwan-yin Temple on your right.

   Since People's Republic of China was found, West Garden Temple has been expanded several times with governmental financial support and Buddhists' donations. Now it has refurbished the former styles and features and many new scenic spots have been added to live up to its fame 'The Holy Land of Buddhist Altar'.