Lingyin Temple
China's ancient spiritual heart, Lingyin Temple boasts a millennium of history, colossal wooden Buddhas, and intricate rock carvings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Lingyin Temple
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
China's ancient spiritual heart, Lingyin Temple boasts a millennium of history, colossal wooden Buddhas, and intricate rock carvings.
"A quiet and sacred place with a long history, the big halls and old carvings make it feel special."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast temple grounds and Feilai Peak. :athletic_shoe:
Allocate a Full Day
The entire area is huge; give yourself ample time to truly enjoy the nature, spirit, and culture. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Buddha Hall
Main Temple Complex
Marvel at the colossal wooden Buddha statue, possibly the world's largest, a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Feilai Peak Sculptures
Feilai Peak
Discover hundreds of ancient Buddhist sculptures intricately carved into the rock faces of Feilai Peak.

Lingyin Temple Architecture
Temple Grounds
Wander through serene halls, admire ancient carvings, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic site.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Lingyin Temple
Tickets and Temple Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast temple grounds and Feilai Peak. :athletic_shoe:
Allocate a Full Day
The entire area is huge; give yourself ample time to truly enjoy the nature, spirit, and culture. :clock1:
Hangzhou's West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and Leifeng Pagoda
Has Anyone Been To Lingyin Temple?
Separate Tickets Needed
Remember to buy an entry ticket for the tour area AND a separate one for Lingyin Temple itself. :ticket:
Beat the Traffic
Taxis may need to drop you off at the carpark, requiring a 10-min walk. Roads can get jammed. :car:
Hangzhou Tips
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast temple grounds and Feilai Peak. :athletic_shoe:
Allocate a Full Day
The entire area is huge; give yourself ample time to truly enjoy the nature, spirit, and culture. :clock1:
Separate Tickets Needed
Remember to buy an entry ticket for the tour area AND a separate one for Lingyin Temple itself. :ticket:
Beat the Traffic
Taxis may need to drop you off at the carpark, requiring a 10-min walk. Roads can get jammed. :car:
Enjoy the Scenery
The shade and breezy wind make summer visits enjoyable, and shops/restaurants are plentiful near the entrance. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lingyin Temple for its immense historical significance, awe-inspiring Buddhist art, and serene atmosphere. The colossal wooden Buddha and intricate Feilai Peak sculptures are consistently highlighted as must-see attractions. However, some find the site to be quite commercialized and note that multiple tickets are required for full access.
"The entire area is huge and you can take whole day to visit all the temples and peaks. Took a cab to the place, but you need to alight at the carpark outside and walk about 10min to the entrance. The road to the place was jammed too. The short taxi ride from Yue temple took more than 30min. There are also many interesting shop on the way to the Lingyin temple. There are also many restaurants at the main entrance. The shade and breezy wind help to make the visit more enjoyable in summer. Spent about 1-2hours only manage to visit Lingyin temple only. This temple alone is big."
Young Gun
"Awesome place! Amazing temple and surrounding area, sculptures in rocks... must to visit if you’re interested Hangzhou. Could spend there a whole day and enjoy the nature, spirit and culture."
Milena Ramcheva
"If you are into Buddhism, this is the place to go. I have never seen such a huge Buddha statue carved out of wood. I think it’s also the biggest one globally. It lies within the national park and you have to buy an extra ticket for it"
Daniel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, but be aware that roads can get jammed, and you might be dropped off at the carpark requiring a 10-minute walk to the entrance.
Public buses are also an option, though they may take longer. Researching bus routes beforehand is advisable.There is a carpark available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's often recommended to arrive early or consider public transport to avoid parking hassles.
A short taxi ride is the quickest option, but traffic can be a factor.
Buses are also available and offer a more budget-friendly way to travel between these popular Hangzhou attractions.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You'll need to purchase an entry ticket for the general tour area, and then a separate ticket to enter Lingyin Temple itself and see attractions like Feilai Peak.
Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official website or inquire upon arrival.While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during holidays and weekends, to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
Lingyin Temple typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's advisable to check the most current operating hours before your visit, as they can sometimes change.
No, you need to purchase an initial entry ticket for the broader Lingyin scenic area, and then an additional ticket is required to access the main temple buildings and the Feilai Peak sculptures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Lingyin Temple is a vast complex. To fully appreciate the temples, natural scenery, and Feilai Peak, plan for at least half a day, or even a full day if you want a more leisurely experience.
Don't miss the Grand Buddha Hall with its massive wooden Buddha statue, and the Feilai Peak area, famous for its ancient Buddhist rock carvings.
The main temple halls themselves are also architecturally significant.Yes, the spacious grounds offer room for children to explore, and the impressive statues and carvings can be captivating. However, be prepared for a lot of walking.
Information on official guided tours can be limited. Many visitors opt to explore independently or hire local guides outside the temple. Audio guides might be available.
Visit during quieter times, observe the monks, and take moments for quiet reflection in the serene halls. The chanting and ancient atmosphere contribute to a special feeling.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be some basic refreshment stands within the temple grounds, more substantial dining options are typically found near the main entrance and in the surrounding areas.
You'll find a variety of local Hangzhou cuisine and standard Chinese dishes. Many restaurants are located along the main road leading to the temple entrance.
As a Buddhist temple, vegetarian options are often available in restaurants catering to visitors and pilgrims. It's always a good idea to ask or look for vegetarian-specific dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The Grand Buddha Hall, the intricate carvings on Feilai Peak, and the temple's traditional architecture offer excellent photo opportunities. The surrounding natural landscape is also beautiful.
Generally, photography is allowed in most outdoor areas and halls. However, it's always respectful to check for any specific 'no photography' signs, especially inside certain sacred spaces.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric and less obstructed photos. Dusk can be particularly beautiful for capturing the temple's ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of water and snacks, as options inside can be limited. Consider a stroller for very young children, but be aware that some areas might be challenging to navigate. The peaceful atmosphere can be a nice contrast to the usual hustle and bustle, offering a chance for a more contemplative outing.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Look for local eateries outside the immediate temple vicinity for more affordable meals. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when accommodation and potentially even entry fees might be slightly lower. The sheer historical and spiritual value of Lingyin Temple makes it a high-value destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The temple complex is not just about its buildings; it's deeply intertwined with the natural landscape. The adjacent Feilai Peak (Flying Peak) is a significant part of the spiritual experience. Legend has it that the peak flew from India, and its rocks are adorned with hundreds of Buddhist sculptures dating from the 9th to the 14th centuries. These carvings, depicting various Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, are a remarkable display of artistry and devotion.
Visiting Lingyin Temple offers a journey through centuries of Buddhist art, architecture, and philosophy. The sheer scale of the temple and the surrounding natural beauty, combined with its profound history, make it a deeply moving and unforgettable destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Navigating the Temple Grounds
Beyond the main temple buildings, the Feilai Peak area is a must-visit. This is where you'll find the intricate rock carvings, requiring a separate ticket for entry. The paths wind through the peak, revealing hidden grottoes and stunning sculptures. Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a fair amount of walking and some inclines involved.
Many visitors also enjoy the serene atmosphere of the surrounding gardens and ponds. Taking a moment to pause, observe the details, and absorb the spiritual ambiance can greatly enhance the experience. Remember that while it's a popular tourist spot, it remains an active place of worship, so maintaining a respectful demeanor is appreciated.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit