Praying at Lingyin Temple: Finding Peace in Imperfection

Lingyin Temple is one of the most sacred and frequently visited temples in Hangzhou. I've been there three times, not to meet the Buddha, but to find myself. Amidst the incense smoke and the serene atmosphere of this Buddhist sanctuary, I reflected on life and came to understand that "life doesn't have to be perfect; a contented heart is enough." The temple is located in the Feilai Feng area, and visitors need to purchase two tickets: one for the Feilai Feng area and another for the temple itself. Several bus routes can take you there, or you can opt for the subway followed by a short bus ride. If you visit early in the morning before 8 AM, you can take a bus directly to the temple gate. After that, vehicle access is restricted, and you'll need to walk or take a shuttle. Inside the temple, the atmosphere is tranquil and clean. Visitors can receive three free incense sticks to offer at various spots. If you have time, you can also visit Yongfu Temple or Taoguang Temple nearby, or hike up to the Temple of the God of Fortune and take a cable car back down. For food, try the vegetarian noodles at Shifang Zhai, a restaurant in the temple that starts serving after 10 AM. Don't forget to purchase the "Lingyin 18 Beads" prayer bracelet, which is exclusively sold at the temple. If your visit coincides with a Buddhist holy day or a major religious event, you can participate in nighttime activities, as the temple stays open until nearly 2 AM. Lingyin Temple is not just a place for worship but a sanctuary for inner peace that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.