China Lingshan Dafo Travel Guide And Tips
What to see:
(1). The Ancient Xiangfu Temple: Xiangfu temple began its construction in the 6th century during the Tang Dynasty, which had once attracted a large number of pilgrims and witnessed numerous senior monks. But time brought great changes to temple. It was burned down during the war in 1930s.
Now Xiangfu Temple of over 1300 years’ standing has been reconstructed and has a senior monk as its abbot. More and more worhipers come here that makes it an important sacred lacation of Buddhism along the bank of Taihu Lake. At present, you’ll find an ancient well, two lotus ponds, gingko and plum trees here, those historical relics remind people of the time and tide of the bygone days.
(2). Pancajnana Gate (The Five-Wisdom Door): Grand and delicate in molding, Pancajnana Gate at Lingshan is a large stone gateway, which denotes profound insight of Buddhism. It was erected with over 1000 tons of granite. On its southern side and the northern side are engraved six groups of big Chinese characters of Satparamita. By Satparamita, it means popularly the six sorts of conduction principles that a Buddhist follower has to reach.
Pillars of Pancajnana Gate are made as a whole from granite through engraving. One each pillar stands a powerful stone lion. The roaring of lions symbolizes that Buddhist truth broadcasts in every direction. On both sides of pillars there are antithetical couplets written by celebrities in deep significance.
Traffic:
(1). From Wuxi downtown to LingShan Dafo: You can take the city bus line 88 at Wuxi Railway Station to Lingshan Dafo. It is about 1 hour’s trip and costs only 2 rmb for a person. The city bus line 89 can reach LingShan Dafo too. It starts from Meiyuan bus station.
(2). From Shanghai to LingShan Dafo: Highway Huning – Wuxi Beihutong – Highway Xiyi – Luqubashan – Lumagonglu – LingShan Dafo.
Tips:
(1). It is a little bit crowded in holidays. You can choose the workday to visit here if you like.
(2). Because LingShan Dafo is far away from the downtown of Wuxi, you’d better drive your own car or take a taxi if you wanna save some time.
(3). Many tourists think LingShan Dafo is a must see for your Wuxi travel.
(4). Booking your tickets online can save some money. (about 15% off)
(5). The LingShan Dafo Park is very big and you will need to walk for a long time here.
(6). The buffet here is very special and it is not easy to find a similar one in other places.
(7). You will be able to see the beautiful cherry trees here in April.
Admission fee:
180 rmb.