Lingyin Temple

Lingyin Temple stands west of West Lake at the foot of Beigao Peak, facing Feilai Peak across a narrow stream. It was founded in 326 AD by the Indian monk Huili, who believed the secluded valley was a place where spirits might retreat.

Repeatedly rebuilt through war and fire, Lingyin remains one of Hangzhou’s most important Buddhist sites. Its halls, pagodas and old trees make the temple feel less like an isolated monument than a natural continuation of the mountain.