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Lingyin Temple

Introducing Lingyin Temple
Lingyin Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple located in Hangzhou. Lingyin Temple has a history dating back over 1,600 years. Nestled at the foot of lush hills and surrounded by picturesque natural beauty, Lingyin Temple offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere for visitors.

Lingyin Temple Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Ling Yin Si 灵隐寺
• Best Time to Visit: April, May, Sept & October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 1 to 2 hours
• Type: Buddhism, garden
• Opening Hours: 6:30 to 17:30 (Nov – Apr); 6:30 to 18:00 (May – Oct)
• Entrance Fee: CNY30
• Address: No.1 Fayun Alley, Lingyin Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province

History of Lingyin Temple

Founded in 326 AD by an Indian monk named Huili, Lingyin Temple quickly gained renown in the region south of the Yangtze River. Its prosperity reached its peak under the Wuyue Kingdom (907-978), boasting an impressive array of structures and accommodations for over 3000 monks. In the later Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279), the temple was considered one of the top ten temples of the Chan sect in the area south of the Yangtze River. Despite its significance, the temple has not been immune to attacks. It has been reconstructed 16 times since its initial construction. The present structures are modern versions of late Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) buildings.

What to expect at Lingyin Temple

The main axis of Lingyin Temple features a traditional five-hall Chan sect structure from the Song Dynasty (960-1279), extending up Lingyin Hill. Although the current five-hall arrangement is a modern reconstruction, the front three halls are original remnants from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). This blend of original Qing-style halls with the modern layout provides insight into the temple’s historical development. Moreover, the serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings of Lingyin Temple offer visitors a peaceful and spiritually enriching experience.

The Hall of Heavenly Kings

The main entrance of the temple is the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, a grand double-eaved building with a plaque (Chinese: 云林禅寺; literally “Chan temple of the Clouds and Forests”) written by Emperor Kangxi (1654-1722). Inside, the principal statue is the Laughing Buddha, with Skanda Bodhisattva at the back. The hall also houses the Four Heavenly Kings and features ornate paintings of phoenixes and dragons on the ceiling. This impressive hall reflects the temple’s historical importance in southeastern China as a center of Buddhism.

Mahavira Hall

The Mahavira Hall, the main hall of the temple, is separated from the Hall of the Heavenly Kings by a courtyard with a lawn and trees. It houses a large wooden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, carved in Tang Dynasty(618-907) style in 1956. The statue is coated with 60 taels (Chinese unit of weight) of gold and is the largest wooden Buddhist statue in China. The hall also contains a statue of Avalokiteśvara and carved images of 150 Buddhist figures. The interior features a gold-painted ceiling with traditional Buddhist symbols, integrating elements of spirituality and artistry into the sacred space.

The Hall of Bhaisajyaguru

Further up the hill behind the Mahavira Hall is the Hall of Bhaisajyaguru, which houses a statue of the Medicine Buddha. Rebuilt in 1993, this single-layer building has a double-eaved hip roof and features the Medicine Buddha flanked by two Bodhisattvas, Suryaprabha and Candraprabha, symbolizing sunlight and moonlight. Together, they are known as the “Three Sages from the East” or the “Three Great Medicine Bodhisattvas”.

Dharma Hall

The Dharma Hall at Lingyin Temple is a significant and sacred place where Buddhist teachings are shared and practiced. The symbolism of the “Zhizhi Hall” and the “Lion Seat” is quite profound, reflecting the power and authority of the masters who expound the Buddhist sutras. The concept of the “Wheel of Dharma” as a teaching that can solve human troubles and be passed down through generations is a beautiful metaphor for the enduring wisdom of Buddhism.

Huayan Hall

Constructed in 2002, the Avatamsaka Hall, also known as the Huayan Hall, is the final hall on the main axis. It contains statues of the three sages from the Avatamsaka Sutra: Shakyamuni, Manjusri, and Samantabhadra.

How to get to Lingyin Temple
• Take bus No. K7 or Y2 and get off at Lingyin Station.
• Take bus No 103, 121 or 324, and get off at Lingyin Dong Station.
• Rent a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle free private transfer from hotels in Hangzhou to Lingyin Temple.

Additional travel advice on Lingyin Temple
• Lingyin Temple is within the Peak Flown From Afar scenic area. Admission ticket to Peak Flown From Afar is a must to visit the temple.
• Vistors can have vegetarian meals at the restaurant of the temple at a reasonable price.

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  1. Tour Highlights
    • Cruise West Lake, so beautiful that it was recreated as Beijing's Summer Palace by Qing Emperor Qian Long
    • Admire Six Harmonies Pagoda, an iconic building of Hangzhou for a commanding view of Qiantang River
    • Visit Linying Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in China with numerous pagodas and Buddhist grottoes
    • Stroll along Qinghefang Ancient Street, the only well persevered antique historic street in Hangzhou
    • Experienced English speaking tour guide
    • Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments

    About This Tour
    • Departure: Daily departing from Hangzhou
    • Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
    • Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
    • Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
    • Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Hangzhou
    • Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.

    Tour Itinerary at a Glance
    • Pick up from your accommodation in Hangzhou
    • West Lake Cruise
    • Visit Six Harmonies Pagoda
    • Lunch on your own
    • Visit Lingyin Temple
    • Stroll along Qinghefang Ancient Street
    • Transfer back to your accommodation in Hangzhou

    Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
    • If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.

    Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)

    1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 +
    $288 $158 $128 $108 $98 $88 $78 $70 $68 $66


    Price Remark
    • Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).

    Price Inclusions
    • Professional English language speaking private tour guide
    • Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
    • All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    • All government taxes

    Price Exclusions
    • Hotel accommodation.
    • Your personal expenses.
    • Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
    • Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
    • Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.

    Additional Info
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
    • The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
    • IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.

    Cancellation Policy
    • You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
    • Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

    Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
    • Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
    • GoGrandChina private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
    • GoGrandChina tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
    • GoGrandChina offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
    • No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
    • No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.

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