Lingyin Temple
Zhejiang Sheng
Lingyin Temple, also known as the Temple of the Soul's Retreat, is a renowned Chan Buddhist monastery located near Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province, China. Founded in 328 AD by the Indian monk Huili during the Eastern Jin dynasty, it has grown into one of the most significant Buddhist temples in the Jiangnan region. The temple is nestled in the Wulin Mountains, an area famous for its religious rock carvings and grottos, particularly the Feilai Feng peak with its numerous stone reliefs and shrines. At its zenith under the Wuyue Kingdom, Lingyin Temple featured 18 pavilions, 72 halls, and over 1300 dormitory rooms housing more than 3000 monks. Despite suffering damage during historical upheavals, including the Cultural Revolution, the temple has been meticulously restored, with many current structures dating from the late Qing dynasty. Today, Lingyin Temple thrives as a spiritual and tourist destination, attracting pilgrims and visitors who come to explore its ancient architecture, sacred grottos, and scenic surroundings. The temple complex includes notable features such as Elder Li's Pagoda, which contains the ashes of its founder, and the famous "one thread of heaven" cave in the Guanyin grotto. The Lingyin-Feilai Feng Scenic Area offers a rich cultural experience with its pagodas, pavilions, bridges, and statues set amidst lush forested mountains.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their trip during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and to avoid peak holiday crowds. It is recommended to purchase tickets for the Lingyin-Feilai Feng Scenic Area in advance to ensure entry and to check the temple's official website or contact them for the latest event schedules and ceremonies. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the extensive grounds and uneven terrain.
Interesting facts
- •Lingyin Temple was founded by an Indian monk named Huili in 328 AD.
- •The Feilai Feng peak is named for the legend that it flew from India to Hangzhou overnight.
- •The temple's Feilai Feng grottos contain over 470 stone carvings, some dating back to the Tang dynasty.
- •Elder Li's Pagoda houses the ashes of the temple's founder, Huili.
- •During the Cultural Revolution, the temple was protected from destruction due to local efforts and directives from Premier Zhou Enlai.
History
Lingyin Temple was founded in 328 AD during the Eastern Jin dynasty by the Indian monk Huili.
It flourished under the Wuyue Kingdom between 907 and 978 AD, becoming a large monastic complex with numerous halls and pavilions.
The temple was recognized as one of the ten most important Chan Buddhist temples during the Southern Song dynasty (1127–1279).
Throughout its history, Lingyin Temple has been rebuilt at least sixteen times due to damage from wars and political turmoil.
During the Cultural Revolution, the temple was threatened with destruction but was saved by local intervention and protection ordered by Premier Zhou Enlai.
Since then, it has been restored and remains a significant religious and cultural site.
Place Guide
Feilai Feng Grottos
A limestone peak in front of Lingyin Temple featuring over 470 stone carvings and 153 shrines, including the Qinglin, Yuru, and Longhong Grottos. The carvings depict Buddhist figures such as the Three Saints of the West and date from the Tang to Ming dynasties.
Elder Li's Pagoda
A large stone pagoda near the temple entrance that contains the ashes of Huili, the temple's founder. It is a significant spiritual monument within the temple complex.
Main Temple ComplexLate Qing dynasty
The core area housing multiple halls, pavilions, and dormitories, showcasing traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture with ornate decorations, statues, and ceremonial spaces. Many buildings are restorations from the late Qing dynasty.
Contact
Phone: 0571 8796 8665