Location & Transportation

Lingyan Temple sits atop Lingyan Mountain in Dujiangyan, Chengdu, nestled under the Seven Star Rocks. To get there, take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Dujiangyan Station (~30 minutes), then a taxi or bus to Xingfu Town. From the town, start your adventure on foot—a scenic hike up the mountain leads you straight to the temple. The address is Lingyan Temple, Qixing Rock, Lingyan Mountain, Xingfu Town, Dujiangyan City, Sichuan Province.

Natural Scenery: A Colorful Journey

Hiking to Lingyan Temple is half the fun! The trail is shaded by tall, ancient trees that turn fiery red and gold in autumn. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a painting, with leaves crunching underfoot and sunlight filtering through the canopy. Near the temple’s entrance, keep an eye out for the “Thousand-Hand Ginkgo”—a twisted, hand-like tree with branches stretching skyward. In fall, its golden leaves blanket the ground, adding a quiet, sacred vibe to the already serene temple grounds.

Cultural Highlights: Art and History

Lingyan Temple (formally called Lingyan Guanyin Temple) is a treasure trove of Buddhist art. The main hall, Thousand Buddhas Hall, dates back to the Ming Dynasty but holds statues from the Song Dynasty. Inside, 40 vivid clay sculptures of monks come alive—each has a unique face, from wise smiles to deep frowns. These statues, nearly 1,000 years old, earned praise from a famous Chinese scholar as “the finest sculptures in the land”. Even if you’re not religious, the detail and craftsmanship will leave you in awe.

Another must-see is the Thousand-Hand Guanyin Shrine next door. The shrine’s namesake statue is a riot of delicate arms, and right beside it stands the legendary ginkgo tree. This tree isn’t just ancient—it’s a symbol of resilience, with branches that seem to reach out like fingers.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • When to Visit: Autumn is magical for the foliage, but spring and summer are lush too. Avoid weekends if you prefer quiet.
  • What to Bring: Wear comfy shoes for the hike, pack water, and bring a light snack (there’s no food inside the temple).
  • Facilities: The temple has basic rest areas, but plan for most of your visit to be outdoors.

An Immersive Experience

Visiting Lingyan Temple feels like stepping into a living museum. The mix of nature and history creates a peaceful escape. As you walk up, stop often to catch your breath—not just from the hike, but from the views. Whether you’re snapping photos of the ginkgo’s golden carpet or studying the ancient Buddha statues, Lingyan Temple offers moments that stay with you long after you leave.

For a day trip from Chengdu, Lingyan Temple is perfect. It’s less crowded than touristy spots, yet packed with beauty and culture. Trust me—those thousand-year-old monk statues and that ginkgo tree are worth every step!