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Visit Lingying Temple to admire its ancient architecture, take part in Buddhist ceremonies, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The temple grounds are ideal for quiet reflection, photography, and exploring the beautiful surrounding nature.
Lingying Temple, also known as Lingying Rock and Zimao Rock, is located on the hillside at the southern foot of Mao Mountain in Hongmei Town, northeast of Nan'an City. It is connected to Yingwu Ridge, Xiangling Ridge, Lingyun Village, and Zhanping Mountain in the east, and Yangmei Mountain Xuefeng Temple in the west. It faces Majia Shuangji Temple head-on. It is one of the famous ancient temples in southern Fujian.
Linh Ying Temple is a grand structure. Climbing approximately 140 stone steps from the Guardian Pavilion, one arrives at Linh Ying Temple. Originally constructed of earth, wood, and stone, it is now a brick, stone, and wood structure. Covering an area of nearly 50 mu (approximately 50 mu), the temple comprises a seven-story Han-style temple complex, encompassing a main hall, painted pillars, two side wings, a pergola, a Guardian Pavilion, and a pagoda. The majestic structure resembles a traditional paper-wrapped house used for rites of salvation, imbued with folk customs. Two archway-style mountain gates stand before the temple, their eaves and red bricks creating distinct layers of detail. Beyond the gates lies a clear pond, as clear as a mirror, revealing fish swimming in the water. The Flesh Hall, nestled in the center of the complex, boasts five bays and an area of approximately 200 square meters, boasting impressive red beams and painted buildings.
The hall houses a statue of the Lingying Patriarch, with the ancestral tablets of his parents to the right and the left dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva, Skanda, and other Bodhisattvas. The Eighteen Arhats are enshrined behind the hall. The front worship hall is spacious, with platforms flanking it, offering panoramic views of the sunrise over Dongshan Mountain and the surrounding mountains. Flanking the hall are over 30 rooms, built at various times. Lingying Temple stands proudly on the Daimao Peak, facing south and boasting a breathtaking natural landscape. The temple boasts rare historical sites in China, including the thousand-year-old bamboo (inverted bamboo), the eggplant-hanging rattan, the ancient cedar, and the Zhenshen Pagoda.
Subtropical monsoon climate; Lingying Temple stands alone on the Daimao Peak, facing south, with an overall beautiful natural landscape. The thousand-year-old strange bamboo (upside-down bamboo), eggplant hanging rattan, ancient cedar, Zhenshen Tower and other scenic spots and historical sites in the area are rare in China, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Master Hongyi Memorial Hall, Yinfeng Pagoda, Main Hall, Guanyin Pavilion;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
No entrance fee required, included in the entrance fee to Lingying Scenic Area
7:00-18:00
Lingying Temple, located in Quanzhou, Fujian, is one of the region's most historically significant Buddhist temples. It has been a center of Buddhist worship and cultural influence for centuries, known for its well-preserved architecture and cultural heritage.
Lingying Temple is located in the outskirts of Quanzhou. It can be reached by taxi or bus from the city center. The temple is also accessible by walking if you are staying nearby, but using public transport or a taxi is recommended for convenience.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
The entrance to Lingying Temple is free, although donations are welcome. There is no need to purchase tickets, and access is granted upon arrival.
No advance booking is required for visiting Lingying Temple. You can simply walk in during opening hours without any prior reservation.
You can explore the main temple and its surroundings in about 1 to 2 hours. This time will allow for a full visit to the main halls, gardens, and a moment of reflection.
The main hall, which houses important Buddhist statues, is a must-see. The surrounding gardens and peaceful outdoor spaces are also great for walking and taking photos.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but there are typically no audio guides. Local guides can offer insights into the temple's history and significance during your visit.
The front entrance of the temple offers the best views of the main hall, while the garden and surrounding paths provide excellent spots for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start at the main entrance, then visit the main hall. From there, explore the surrounding courtyards and gardens, taking time to admire the architecture and natural beauty of the area.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Lingying Temple. However, visiting during the early morning or late afternoon offers a tranquil experience with fewer visitors.
The temple can be busier on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no food or drink stalls inside the temple, so it’s advisable to bring your own refreshments.
While the temple is accessible for elderly visitors and children, some areas may have stairs or uneven paths. The site is not fully accessible for those with significant mobility impairments.
Cash is rarely needed at Lingying Temple. Mobile payment systems such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted for donations and purchases in nearby shops.
There are a few local restaurants and tea houses near the temple serving traditional Fujian cuisine. Options range from casual eateries to more refined dining experiences.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the nearby restaurants. Halal food may be found at specific establishments catering to Muslim dietary preferences in Quanzhou.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Lingying Temple, including budget and mid-range options. Popular choices include Quanzhou Hotel and other nearby accommodations that provide easy access to the temple.
Other nearby attractions include the Kaiyuan Temple and the Quanzhou Maritime Museum. Both sites are within easy reach and can be visited alongside Lingying Temple in a day trip.
Souvenir shops are located near the temple, offering items such as Buddhist statues, incense, and religious trinkets. You can also find local crafts and pottery as souvenirs.
Taxis and buses are the best options for continuing your trip. If you are heading to other attractions in Quanzhou, public transport or a taxi can take you easily to your next destination.
