Lingyin Temple is a famous ancient Buddhist monastery in China located in the northwest of West Lake, with the history of over 1600 years. With lush plants, gorgeous and tranquil scenery and valuable cultural relics, Ling Yin Temple serves as a must-see destination during the tour in Hangzhou.

Lingyin Temple was originally built during the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317 - 420) by a India monk called Huilai. When he came here, he was amazed at the beautiful mountain and the spiritual nature scenery. So he decided to build the temple, which has a quiet environment that encourages a feeling of peace. The temple we see today was rebuilt during the 19th century. Today, it is still an active temple consists of five halls, giant statues and countless ancient trees. And standing on the central axis are the three main buildings of the temple: the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Mahavira Hall and the Hall of Medicine Buddha.

The Hall of Heavenly Kings
In the center of the Hall of Heavenly Kings, there is the state of Maitreya sitting on a futon with beaming smile, which has a history of more than 200 years. Behind the Maitreya is the statue of Dharmapala made of camphor trees with the height of 2.5 meters. Built during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), it has a great ornamental value. On both sides of the hall there sit Four Heavenly Kings with the height of 8 meters, which are commonly known as the Four Guardians of the Buddha.

The Mahavira Hall
The Mahavira Hall with the height of  33.6 meters is the best preserved monolayer temple building in China. In the middle of the hall there is a gild statue of Sakyamuni sitting on lotus throne. With the height of 24.8 meters, it is one of the largest wooden sitting Buddhas in the China. On both sides there are 20 standing heavenly gods and in the back there are 12 sitting Bodhisattravas. On the back wall of the hall, there are over 150 delicate carved relievos.

The Hall of Medicine Buddha
The Hall of Medicine Buddha was built in recent years. In the middle of the hall stands the statues of the Medicine Buddha, the son of the sun and the son of the moon. In the left side of the hall there exhibits 500 stone Arhats.

Lingyin Temple is really an attractive place consists of historic interest, cultural relics and agreeable natural scenery. So during your tour to Hangzhou, never miss this important attraction.