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Yongfu Temple is located at the foot of Shisun Peak, about one li west of Lingyin Temple. It has a history of more than 1,600 years since it was founded by Zen Master Huili in the Eastern Jin Dynasty.
According to Volume 32, "Temples and Monasteries," of the "Hangzhou Prefecture Records" during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, Yongfu Temple is located at the foot of Xingsheng Mountain opposite the Huyuan Cave on Feilai Peak. It was formerly divided into two temples, the upper and lower temples. Like Xiatianzhu (formerly known as Fanjingyuan) and other temples, it was founded by Zen Master Huili.
Yongfu Temple is nestled amidst vast bamboo forests and deep woods, accompanied by a gurgling stream. Deep within the winding paths lies a tranquil world. On clear days, the stands in front of the Main Hall offer panoramic views of West Lake.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
No tickets are required, it is included in the Feilai Peak Scenic Area ticket
7:00-18:00
Eifuji Temple, located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, is an ancient Buddhist temple with a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is an important religious and cultural site for Buddhists in the region, known for its peaceful environment and historical significance in spreading Buddhist teachings in East China.
Eifuji Temple is located in the outskirts of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. To get there, you can take a taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses also serve the area, with routes available from Hangzhou's main transportation hubs. Walking may not be practical for those coming from the city center due to the distance.
The temple is generally open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. Avoid visiting during major public holidays as it may be crowded.
The entrance fee to Eifuji Temple is usually around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance. It is generally not possible to purchase tickets online.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, as tickets are usually available at the entrance. However, if you are planning to visit during peak seasons, it’s a good idea to confirm availability or contact the temple for group visit arrangements.
You will likely need around 1-2 hours to fully explore Eifuji Temple, including time for sightseeing, photography, and reflection. If you plan to hike the surrounding areas, you may want to allocate an additional 1-2 hours.
Guided tours are available at Eifuji Temple, typically in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, though it’s advisable to book them in advance through local tour operators. Audio guides are not commonly available.
Start by entering through the main gates, making your way to the central prayer hall, then explore the surrounding gardens. From there, take time to visit the pagodas and smaller prayer halls. If you have time, walk up the nearby hill for a panoramic view of the temple and its surroundings.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Eifuji Temple. The temple is generally closed at night, and its serene atmosphere is best enjoyed during the daytime. Special tours may be arranged for groups or during specific Buddhist festivals.
Eifuji Temple is generally not crowded, except during major holidays or festivals. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, particularly in the mornings or late afternoons. Weekends tend to see more visitors, especially from local tourists.
The temple has basic facilities, including restrooms and small food stands. There are no large restaurants or shops inside, but there may be small stalls selling snacks and souvenirs outside the temple grounds. Water is available for purchase near the entrance.
The temple grounds are relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas may involve climbing steps or walking on uneven paths. For disabled visitors, certain areas of the temple may be difficult to access due to the terrain. It’s best to check with the temple in advance regarding accessibility.
Cash is accepted at the entrance for ticket purchases, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted at food stalls and souvenir shops. Credit cards are not widely accepted in rural areas like this.
Inside the temple, food options are limited to small local stalls. However, there are a number of restaurants and cafes in the nearby Hangzhou city center, offering a variety of Chinese and international dishes.
Vegetarian food is available at the temple's food stalls, as it is common in Buddhist cuisine. Vegan and halal food options are more readily available in the city of Hangzhou, but may be limited near the temple itself.
There are a range of hotels and guesthouses near Hangzhou city center, which is around a 30-minute drive from Eifuji Temple. Popular options include boutique hotels, mid-range accommodations, and luxury hotels in downtown Hangzhou.
There are souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist-themed items, including prayer beads, incense, small statues, and traditional Chinese crafts like silk scarves and calligraphy pieces.
After visiting Eifuji Temple, the best options for continuing your trip include taking a taxi or bus back to Hangzhou city. From there, you can explore more of Hangzhou or continue to nearby attractions such as the Longjing tea fields or the city's famous parks.
