Lingyin Temple

Lingyin Temple — one of China's largest and most revered Buddhist complexes

|Temple|Hangzhou, Zhejiang|Weekday mornings. Spring and autumn.|2-3 hours

By Qianyi·Updated March 2026·10 min read

Intro

Lingyin Temple (Temple of the Soul's Retreat) is one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in China, nestled in forested hills northwest of West Lake. Founded in 328 AD, the current buildings date primarily from the Qing Dynasty and house extraordinary collections of Buddhist art including the enormous camphor wood Sakyamuni statue — 24.8 metres high — in the Hall of the Great Hero. The adjacent Feilai Feng cliff carvings depict over 330 Buddhist figures carved between the 10th and 14th centuries.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings. Spring and autumn.

Highlights

Getting There

Bus K7 from West Lake scenic area. Taxi from central Hangzhou ¥30, 20 minutes.

Tickets & Entry

Feilai Feng scenic area ¥45, Temple additional ¥30. Combined ¥75.

Practical Tips

Book tickets in advance during peak season. Allow 2-3 hours for both the temple and Feilai Feng carvings. Dress modestly.

More in Hangzhou

West Lake

UNESCO World Heritage landscape — the soul of Hangzhou and one of China's most beautiful places

Longjing Tea Village

Longjing Tea Village — Dragon Well tea at its source above Hangzhou

Six Harmonies Pagoda

Six Harmonies Pagoda — Song Dynasty pagoda above the Qiantang River tidal bore

FAQ

Located in

Hangzhou

View the full Hangzhou travel guide

Quick Facts

Duration	2-3 hours
Best time	Weekday mornings. Spring and autumn.