Lingyin Temple Travel Guide

Location and Historical Background Lingyin Temple is located in the Feilai Peak Scenic Area of Xihu District, Hangzhou. It was founded in 326 AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty by the Indian monk Huili, making it nearly 1700 years old. It is one of the five major Zen Buddhist temples in the Jiangnan region and is known as the 'Buddhist Kingdom in the Southeast.' The temple features ancient and solemn architecture, with five main halls (including the Hall of Heavenly Kings and the Mahavira Hall) aligned along the central axis. The temple is famous for its thriving incense offerings and is particularly renowned for its efficacy in granting wishes. Tickets and Opening Hours Tickets: You need to purchase a ticket for the Feilai Peak Scenic Area (45 RMB) and a Lingyin Temple incense ticket (30 RMB), totaling 75 RMB. Students and seniors can enjoy half-price discounts. Opening Hours: 07:00-18:15 (ticket sales stop at 17:30). Transportation Public Transport/Metro: Take the metro to 'Huanglong Sports Center Station' and transfer to the Lingyin special line bus; or take bus routes 7, Y2, etc., directly from the city center. Driving: It is recommended to park at Huanglong Sports Center or Amanfayun Hotel parking lot and then take a shuttle bus to avoid holiday traffic congestion. Highlights Feilai Peak Grottoes: The largest grotto sculpture group in Jiangnan, featuring attractions like Qinglin Cave and Yixiantian. The stone carvings of Ji Gong's bed and the Eighteen Arhats are particularly notable. Lingyin Temple Blessings: Visitors can receive three free incense sticks upon entering the temple and can worship at the Hall of Heavenly Kings and the Mahavira Hall along the central axis. The temple's gift shop offers consecrated 'Eighteen Seeds' bracelets. Surrounding Temples: Yongfu Temple (free), Taoguang Temple, and Beigaofeng Caishen Temple can be visited in sequence. Don't miss the Zen tea experience at Yongfu Temple. Notes It is recommended to visit early in the morning or on rainy days to avoid holiday crowds. Follow temple rules, avoid making noise, and do not touch the statues. Bring small change for the donation boxes. Luggage storage services are available in the scenic area through 'Tujian,' with backpack storage at 10 RMB/day and suitcase storage at 20 RMB/day. Nearby Recommendations West Lake Ten Scenes: After visiting Lingyin Temple, you can take a boat (40 RMB/person) to Three Pools Mirroring the Moon and climb Leifeng Pagoda in the evening to enjoy the 'Leifeng Sunset.' Faxi Temple: Take a sightseeing bus (10 RMB) to this temple, which is famous for its matchmaking blessings and unique architectural style. Lingyin Temple combines natural wonders with ancient Zen culture. It is recommended to allocate half a day for an in-depth visit and plan a one-day itinerary with nearby West Lake attractions to experience the beauty of Hangzhou's landscapes and culture!