Lingyin Temple Sutra Pillar

Introducing Lingyin Temple Sutra Pillar

The two pagodas in Lingyin Temple are located on the east and west sides of the Heavenly King Hall. According to the "Record of the Construction of the Pagodas" engraved on the pagodas, the stone pagodas were built by the King of Wuyue in the second year of Kaibao in the Northern Song Dynasty ( 969 AD). They were originally erected in Fengxian Temple, the ancestral temple of the Qian family. Later, Wuyue Kingdom ceded its land to the Song Dynasty and Fengxian Temple was destroyed. It was then moved to its current location in the second year of Jingyou ( 1035 AD ) by Yanshan, the abbot of Lingyin Temple.

The two pagodas are essentially identical in structure, both carved from lake stone and stacked in layers to form a multi-story, octagonal stone pagoda. The lower portion of the pagoda rests on a three-tiered Sumeru base, with a Buddha statue carved into the waist. The pagoda itself is inscribed with the sutras " Great Buddha's Crown Dharani " and " Great Freedom Dharani of Suo Suo Zhi Zhuo ." Following the sutras on the western pagoda is an inscription of its construction, signed at the end: " Built by the Great Marshal Wu Qi, King of the Country, on the fifth day of the intercalary month of the Ji Si year, the second year of the Kaibao reign of the Great Song Dynasty. "

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Suggested playing time: about half an hour

Tickets

Included in the Lingyin Temple scenic area ticket

Attraction opening hours

7:00-18:15, ticket sales stop at 17:30, ticket checking stop at 17:45

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Most Popular FAQs for Lingyin Temple Sutra Pillar

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

The Lingyin Temple Sutra Pillar is a historical landmark in Hangzhou, part of the larger Lingyin Temple complex. The pillar represents the Buddhist tradition of safeguarding sacred texts, symbolizing the importance of knowledge and spiritual practice in Chinese Buddhism.

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

Located in the scenic area of Hangzhou, Zhejiang, the Lingyin Temple Sutra Pillar is accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. Public transport options are available, and it's a short walk from the Lingyin Temple entrance. The location is in a picturesque part of Hangzhou, surrounded by lush landscapes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the site is less crowded.

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

The entrance fee is around ¥40. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and during peak seasons, you can check for online booking options to avoid long lines.

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

Tickets are not always required to be booked in advance, but for busy periods, it is recommended to book 1-2 days ahead to secure your visit, especially during holidays or festivals.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes approximately 1-1.5 hours to fully explore the Lingyin Temple Sutra Pillar and surrounding temple grounds. If you want to participate in meditation or spend time reflecting, you might want to allocate additional time.

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

The main highlight is the Sutra Pillar itself, followed by the main hall of Lingyin Temple, which houses several important Buddhist statues. The temple gardens and the surrounding natural beauty are also key points of interest.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some options for English-speaking visitors. Audio guides are available, but it's best to check availability at the entrance or book in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the Sutra Pillar, especially during golden hours. The temple’s gardens, with their traditional architecture and serene ambiance, also offer great photography opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Sutra Pillar, then explore the main hall of the Lingyin Temple. Afterward, take a stroll through the temple’s gardens to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. If time allows, visit other nearby attractions such as the Fei Lai Feng Buddhist rock carvings.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at the Lingyin Temple Sutra Pillar. Special tours may be available during certain Buddhist festivals, so it's advisable to check for updates before planning your visit.

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

The site can be crowded, especially on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings or late afternoons. Visiting in the off-season or during weekdays will provide a more peaceful experience.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and water stations are available. There are no major food outlets inside the temple grounds, but there are several local restaurants nearby where you can enjoy traditional food.

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

The site is mostly accessible, but some areas require walking up steps or navigating hilly terrain. Elderly or disabled visitors may need assistance, especially in more elevated areas of the temple complex.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are more commonly used and preferred. It's recommended to use mobile payments for convenience, though cash is still an option.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants directly within the temple grounds, but nearby eateries offer traditional Hangzhou dishes, such as tea, noodles, and dumplings. Local cafes and tea houses are also popular around the area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are widely available, especially in the nearby restaurants catering to the temple's visitors. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited but can be found in certain local establishments.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near the Lingyin Temple area, ranging from budget guesthouses to high-end luxury hotels. Popular options include Hangzhou's West Lake area, which offers easy access to the temple.

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

Nearby attractions include West Lake, Fei Lai Feng rock carvings, and the Longjing tea fields. These can easily be visited together as part of a day trip to explore Hangzhou’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

While there are no souvenir shops directly at the temple, nearby markets and shops sell traditional Chinese crafts, including tea, silk products, Buddhist statues, and other souvenirs reflecting the area’s cultural heritage.

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

Taxi or private car is the most convenient option to continue your trip. Public buses and local transportation are available, but taxis provide more flexibility for exploring other nearby attractions.