Lingyin Temple (Hangzhou)

Last updated: March 2026. Check official site for tickets and opening hours.

Lingyin Temple sits inside the Feilaifeng scenic area. You buy the Feilaifeng ticket first, then the temple incense ticket at the temple gate. Inside are halls, pillars and incense; the Feilaifeng hillside has rock carvings from different dynasties—temple and mountain in one visit. Most people allow half a day: first the Feilaifeng carvings and Cold Spring Pavilion, then Lingyin. In peak season it’s crowded with pilgrims and tourists; mornings or weekdays are quieter. No photography of Buddha images inside the temple; no smoking.

What Makes it Worth It

Lingyin is one of Hangzhou’s most famous temples; with the Feilaifeng carvings it gives a full “temple + mountain” experience. For anyone interested in Jiangnan Buddhism and rock art it’s an easy stop from town; for anyone who just wants “one famous temple,” Lingyin is enough. It strings well with West Lake, Longjing and Hefang into a 2–3 day “lake–temple–tea–street” trip; allow time for tickets and walking—half a day is about right.

What to Expect

Don’t Miss

Practical Information

Getting There

Common mistake: buying only the Feilaifeng ticket and heading straight to the temple—you still need the incense ticket at the temple gate. The carvings are outside the temple; see them first, then enter the temple.

Lingyin and Feilaifeng go together: do the Feilaifeng carvings first, then Lingyin; half a day is enough. Two separate tickets—check before you go. With West Lake and Hefang it’s the classic “temple + lake + street” piece of Hangzhou.

If you have no interest in temples or rock art and are short on time, West Lake and Hefang are enough. If you want one Jiangnan temple with mountain carvings, Lingyin is the most convenient stop from town.

• Hangzhou City Guide — Complete city guide