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Explore the Lingyun Temple's serene environment, admire the intricate architecture, and learn about its historical significance. Take a peaceful walk around the temple grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the nearby Giant Buddha, which can be visited as part of the trip to Lingyun Temple.
Lingyun Temple, also known as the Big Buddha Temple, is located on the side of Qiluan Peak on Lingyun Mountain, adjacent to the Leshan Giant Buddha. With its majestic architecture, meticulous layout, and stunning scenery, Lingyun Temple is known as "the best landscapes in the world are in Shu, the best landscapes in Shu are in Jiaxing, and the best landscapes in Jiaxing are in Lingyun."
Lingyun Temple was founded in the Tang Dynasty but later abandoned. The present-day temple, built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, comprises a three-story quadrangle consisting of the Heavenly King Hall, the Great Hero Hall, and the Sutra Library. The final hall, the Sutra Library, originally housed Buddhist scriptures and was newly constructed in 1930.
Passing the wine pavilion, one gazes upwards to the towering gate of Lingyun Temple, its soaring eaves towering above, its red walls and green tiles a majestic spectacle. A massive golden plaque hangs in the center of the gate, bearing the inscription "Lingyun Zen Temple" in Su Dongpo's calligraphy. Flanking it are the couplets: "The great river flows east, the Buddha's teachings flow west." This concise and expressive couplet not only evokes a sense of the solemnity of Buddhism, but also highlights Lingyun Temple's geographical location. The ingenious inclusion of the characters "Big Buddha" (大佛) within the plaque underscores the extraordinary grandeur of this millennium-old temple.
Leshan has distinct four seasons, and spring and autumn are the best time to visit.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
Tickets are included in the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area ticket
Peak season 7:30-18:30
Off-season 8:00-17:30
Lingyun Temple, located in Leshan, is an ancient Buddhist temple known for its rich history and spiritual significance. It is famous for its association with the nearby Giant Buddha and its peaceful setting amidst nature. The temple has long been a place of worship and pilgrimage for Buddhist followers.
Lingyun Temple is located in Leshan, Sichuan, near the Giant Buddha. It can be reached by taxi or local buses from the Leshan city center. From the Leshan Giant Buddha scenic area, it is a short walk or a short ride.
Lingyun Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon, when the temple is less crowded, and the weather is cooler.
The entrance fee to Lingyun Temple is approximately 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local ticketing platforms.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons. Booking a day or two before is recommended if you prefer to avoid long lines.
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore Lingyun Temple, including time to visit the temple halls, walk through the gardens, and enjoy the scenic views.
The main highlights are the ancient temple buildings, the peaceful courtyards, and the panoramic views of the surrounding area. The proximity to the Giant Buddha makes it a must-see destination in Leshan.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English for tourists. Audio guides in Mandarin and English can be rented at the entrance.
The best photography spots are around the temple’s courtyards, with the backdrop of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. Shots of the Giant Buddha in the distance are also spectacular.
Start by visiting the temple’s main halls, then walk through the gardens to explore the various structures. End the visit by enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the temple’s elevated grounds.
Night visits are not typically available at Lingyun Temple, and there are no light shows. However, the temple offers a tranquil atmosphere that is best enjoyed during the daytime.
Lingyun Temple can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings or late afternoons during the off-peak season.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the temple. There are no large food outlets, but small vendors sell snacks and drinks nearby.
The temple is accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may require walking up stairs. Disabled visitors may find some parts of the site challenging due to its historical and natural terrain.
Cash is not necessary, and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. Some small vendors may accept cards.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the temple serving Sichuan cuisine, including noodles, hotpot, and snacks. You can find more dining options in the Leshan city center.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the local restaurants, especially in dishes like tofu, vegetables, and rice. Halal food options may be found in nearby eateries that cater to Muslim visitors.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Leshan Giant Buddha and Lingyun Temple. Accommodations range from budget-friendly to mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, Wuyou Temple, and the scenic areas around Mount Emei. These can easily be combined into a full day trip.
Souvenir shops near the temple offer traditional Buddhist items, including prayer beads, incense, and statues. You can also find local handicrafts and artwork.
Taxis, buses, and local transport options are available to continue your trip to other attractions or the Leshan city center. You can also take a bus or taxi to Mount Emei for further exploration.
