Lingyin Temple: A Spiritual Haven Amidst the Bustle, A Zen Journey in Hangzhou

Hangzhou Lingyin Temple Experience Trip Overview Lingyin Temple, nestled in the serene forests west of Hangzhou's West Lake, is an ancient temple with nearly 1700 years of history. It is not only a Buddhist holy site but also a Zen space that blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. This trip will take you through the cultural charm, architectural wonders, and Zen lifestyle of Lingyin Temple. Itinerary Morning • Transportation Recommendation: Depart from the city center, take Metro Line 1 to Longxiangqiao Station, and transfer to Bus No. 7 directly to 'Lingyin Station.' • Attractions: ◦ Hall of Heavenly Kings: Houses the Maitreya Buddha and the Four Heavenly Kings, with Skanda Bodhisattva guarding with a vajra. ◦ Mahavira Hall: Features a 24.8-meter-high seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha on a lotus, with a 3D coffered ceiling depicting the Avatamsaka Sutra, an architectural marvel. ◦ Feilai Peak Cliff Carvings: Over 470 statues from the Five Dynasties to the Yuan Dynasty, primarily featuring Tibetan Buddhist art from the Yuan Dynasty. The laughing Maitreya symbolizes 'tolerance for all difficulties.' • Food Recommendation: Enjoy vegetarian cuisine at the temple's dining hall, experiencing the light and elegant vegetarian culture. Afternoon • Attractions: ◦ Hall of the Medicine Buddha: Pray for health and peace, with a plaque inscribed by Emperor Qianlong reading 'Great Round Mirror Wisdom.' ◦ Hall of Five Hundred Arhats: The largest bronze Arhat group in China, where you can find your 'Guardian Arhat' based on your birth date. ◦ Cold Spring Pavilion: Poet Bai Juyi once enjoyed tea and wrote poems here, listening to the spring water, capturing the essence of 'the sound of the spring choked by the rocks.' • Zen Experience: Participate in the morning class, listen to the chanting, and feel the Zen atmosphere permeate your heart. Evening • Night View: Lingyin Temple at dusk has a unique charm, with the golden top illuminated by the sunset, perfect for photography. Accommodation Recommendation • Zen Tea Retreat: Located near Lingyin Temple, it offers a tranquil environment, ideal for a weekend or holiday stay, experiencing the monks' morning class. Notes • Attire: Wear comfortable shoes for easy walking and touring. • Weather: Hangzhou's weather is unpredictable, so bring light rain gear. • Etiquette: Respect local religious customs when visiting the temple, maintain silence, and avoid wearing revealing clothing. Cost Estimate • Tickets: Feilai Peak Scenic Area 45 RMB (includes Yongfu Temple and Taoguang Temple), Lingyin Temple Incense Ticket 30 RMB (includes three sticks of incense). • Transportation: Bus fare around 2 RMB, driving costs starting from 35 RMB.