Jingshan Temple

Introducing Jingshan Temple

Jingshan Temple, located in Jingshan Town, Yuhang District, Hangzhou, is nestled among the five peaks of Jingshan Mountain. Founded during the Tianbao period of the Tang Dynasty, this ancient temple, over 1,200 years old, represents the final peak of Buddhism's Sinicization and is renowned as one of the five great Zen temples in Jiangnan. The temple houses over 1,700 monks and 360 meditation rooms .

During the Tianbao period of the Tang Dynasty, the eminent monk Faqin came to Jingshan to live and practice Buddhism. Impressed by his morality and Buddhist teachings, Emperor Daizong ordered him to come to Beijing to preach Buddhism, bestowing upon him the title " National Zen Master " and decreeing the construction of a temple for him, naming it " Jingshan Zen Temple ." During the Yuan and Ming dynasties, Japanese monks continued to visit Jingshan. The temple was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt, and after liberation, only the main hall, the imperial stele of Emperor Xiaozong, the Yongle bell from the Ming Dynasty, and the iron incense burner from the Ming Dynasty remain. Every year, groups of Japanese monks visit the temple to worship and seek the ancestral teachings.

Jingshan Temple has an inextricable bond with Japan. Legend has it that Tang Dynasty poet Lu Yu wrote his "The Classic of Tea " here. Ancient rituals such as " tea banquets " and " tea competitions " were later brought back to Japan by eminent Japanese monks, where they developed into the " tea ceremony . " Today, a growing number of Japanese tea ceremony enthusiasts visit Jingshan Temple, seeking to trace their roots .

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

20 yuan/person (including 3 incense sticks)

Attraction opening hours

5:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jingshan Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Jingshan Temple was founded during the Tianbao period of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) around 742–745 AD on Jingshan Mountain, Yuhang District, Hangzhou. It played a major role in the development of Zen (Chan) Buddhism in southern China and hosted over 1,700 monks and some 1,000 buildings during its peak in the Southern Song Dynasty.
It is significant for cultural exchange with Japan (Japanese monks studied there) and for its link to the “tea-ceremony” culture — the temple appears in literature as a birthplace of Chinese Buddhist tea ritual.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

It is located on Jingshan Mountain, Jingshan Town, Yuhang District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.

• By taxi or ride-hail: ask for “Jingshan Temple, Yuhang District, Hangzhou”.
• By public transport: Take Hangzhou Metro (Line 3) to Dongyue Station, then transfer to local bus or a short taxi ride uphill. [source indicates metro access]
• Walking: From the base parking or bus stop, follow the path up the mountain to the temple precinct.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is generally open all day (ground area accessible 24 hours) though main halls may close for maintenance or services. Visiting early morning or late afternoon gives quieter experience and fresh mountain air.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no clear standard entrance fee listed in public sources. The temple grounds appear open and free of charge for general access.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is required for normal entry. If planning for a large group, or special guided tour, check locally in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

About 1 to 1½ hours to wander the temple buildings and immediate grounds. If you include a climb on the mountain trails around the temple, allocate 2 to 3 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The bell tower with the historic Yongle Bell.
• The three iron Buddha statues from the Song Dynasty era.
• The ancient stele (inscribed tablets) by Emperor Xiaozong of Song.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

No reliable information found about formal guided tours in English or audio guides for the temple; it is mostly a self-guided visit. Local Chinese-language guides may be arranged.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The front gate with the temple courtyard and mountain backdrop.

• Interior of the bell tower and close-up of the large bronze bell.

• The mountain trail viewpoint overlooking the temple complex and surrounding forest.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main gate, proceed through the temple halls (bell tower, main hall, stele pavilion), then exit into the mountain path behind the temple for a modest walk and viewpoint stop, then return.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No special night light shows or themed tours appear to be listed for Jingshan Temple. Evening visits are possible, but check local access.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Though less visited than some major West Lake temples, it can still see visitors during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are early morning and weekdays outside peak holiday seasons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic temple-site facilities exist: restrooms near the entrance and visitor areas, small shops or kiosks selling incense or souvenirs, benches/rest areas in the grounds. For full dining options, use nearby town facilities.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple grounds are relatively flat near entrance; however the mountain path is steeper and may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Elderly and children can visit the main buildings easily but should avoid strenuous mountain trails.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Since no formal ticketing appears required, cash may only be needed for small items (incense, souvenirs). In Hangzhou city area, mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat) and cards are broadly accepted at nearby shops and kiosks.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby the temple base and Yuhang District there are local cafés and small restaurants serving Zhejiang cuisine. Inside the temple complex itself there are likely only small refreshment kiosks rather than full restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in nearby Buddhist-temple area restaurants (temple cuisine). For fully halal-certified meals you may need to travel toward Hangzhou city centre and ask specifically.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Yuhang District and Hangzhou city offer a wide range of accommodations (guesthouses, mid-range hotels, luxury). Staying in Yuhang or near West Lake gives convenient access to the temple and other attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The scenic West Lake (西湖) area in Hangzhou with temples, gardens and boat rides.
• The mountain trail “Jingshan Ancient Path” (径山古道) starting/ending near the temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes — near the temple entrance you may find souvenir stalls selling Buddhist artifacts (incense, prayer beads), local snacks, and tea sets (given the temple’s tea connection) that reflect the temple’s cultural heritage.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After the visit you can take a taxi or ride-hailing service back into Hangzhou city centre or to other Yuhang District destinations. Public bus lines also connect Yuhang with Hangzhou metro network. If driving, return via the same route and consider visiting nearby scenic spots.