Flying Peak Through Feilaifeng

#holidayseason Feilaifeng, or the Flying Peak, is a must-visit spot in Hangzhou, blending cultural significance and natural beauty. Located near the famous Lingyin Temple, Feilaifeng is known for its ancient stone carvings and serene surroundings. The name "Flying Peak" originates from a legend claiming the mountain flew here from India, making it a sacred site in Buddhism. The highlight of Feilaifeng is the stone carvings of Buddha and other deities etched into the cliffs and caves, many of which date back to the Song and Yuan dynasties. These carvings showcase intricate artistry and give a glimpse into the spiritual devotion of the past. The area itself isn't large, but they’re scattered throughout the area, so take your time to wander and explore. Beyond the carvings, the mountain trails behind Feilaifeng offer a peaceful escape. While the trails don't offer particularly unique views, they’re surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air, making them a great break from the crowds. You can skip if you're not that into the green, but it’s a great way to take a break from the crowds and reconnect with nature. Nearby, Lingyin Temple is another key attraction. One of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in China, it boasts impressive architecture, tranquil courtyards, and spiritual significance. I didn’t visit Lingyin Temple itself as it requires an additional 30 RMB ticket. Instead, I explored Yongfu Temple and Taoguang Temple, which are adjacent to Lingyin and included in the 45 RMB Feilaifeng entrance ticket. Yongfu Temple, or the Temple of Eternal Blessings, quickly became my favorite spot. This sprawling complex on the hillside features five main courtyards, each with various halls and structures that harmonize beautifully with the natural terrain. The multi-tiered layout adds a sense of discovery to every step, and I easily spent 2–3 hours here. Taoguang Temple, or the Temple of Hidden Light/Widom in Humility, offers a different experience. Unlike Yongfu, it doesn’t have multiple layers but instead features a long, scenic staircase leading up to the temple. The atmosphere here felt damp and mysterious, perhaps because it was raining on the day I visited, but it added to the charm. I finished exploring this temple in about 1–2 hours. ---------------------------------------- 🪷Tips for Visiting: 🪷Entrance Fees: The 45 RMB ticket includes Feilaifeng, Yongfu Temple, and Taoguang Temple. Lingyin Temple requires an additional 30 RMB ticket. 🪷Time Management: • Feilaifeng: 30–60 minutes for the carvings. • Yongfu Temple: 2–3 hours if you enjoy exploring its courtyards. • Taoguang Temple: 1–2 hours for the climb and atmosphere. • Back Mountain Trails: Optional, 30–60 minutes. 🪷I recommend starting with Feilaifeng, then moving on to Yongfu Temple, Taoguang Temple, and the back mountain trails. Decide whether to visit Lingyin Temple at the end, depending on your energy and interest. Personally, I skipped Lingyin Temple and don’t regret my choice—it felt like I experienced plenty without it.