A Unique Hanfu Experience: Exploring Lingyin Temple at Night

Did you know that some temples in Hangzhou are now “working overtime”? It might come as a surprise, but a Hanfu experience awaits at Lingyin Temple, which opens for special night tours on the evenings before the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month. While most people are still unaware of this, it has become an exciting new way to experience one of Hangzhou’s most historic temples.

During these night openings, visitors can explore the Hall of the Heavenly Kings and the Grand Hall of the Great Hero from 7:30 PM to 1:30 AM the following morning (unless there are special closures). If you’re planning a trip to Hangzhou anytime soon, why not check the dates in advance and embark on a Hanfu experience as you journey through this thousand-year-old temple?

A Tradition Dating Back to the Tang Dynasty

The idea of visiting Lingyin Temple at night isn’t new—it actually dates back to the Tang Dynasty. The poet Song Zhiwen once passed through Hangzhou on his way to his new post in Yuezhou. While staying at Lingyin Temple, he was so captivated by the serene moonlit scenery that he composed a poem:

“Eagle Ridge rises steep and high,
The Dragon Palace locked in solitude.
From the pavilions, I see the sun over the vast sea,
By the gates, I hear the surging tides of the Zhejiang River.”

This poem, simply titled “Lingyin Temple,” reflects the temple’s tranquil and timeless beauty under the night sky.

A New Trend: Midnight Prayers and Hanfu Experience Night Tours

Today, visiting Lingyin Temple at night has become a trendy new way to experience temple culture and a unique Hanfu experience. Over the past year, as more people have embraced temple-hopping tours, the once little-known night visit to Lingyin Temple has gained popularity among young travelers and social media enthusiasts.

With the arrival of summer vacation, even more visitors have flocked to the temple to experience its nighttime magic. On July 1st, the 14th day of the lunar fifth month, I had the chance to join the night tour and see what all the buzz was about.

Unlike daytime visits, the night tour doesn’t include Feilai Peak, so you only need to purchase a ¥30 ticket directly from the Lingyin Temple ticket office. The ticket also includes three complimentary incense sticks for prayers.

A Night Filled with Youthful Energy

As the sun sets, the summer heat fades, replaced by the lively atmosphere of young visitors. Walking into Lingyin Temple, I saw groups of young tourists holding up cameras, capturing the breathtaking nighttime scenery.

The lotus lanterns glowed softly, casting a warm golden light that flickered against the dancing tree shadows. In the middle of it all, a young woman in elegant Hanfu stood beneath the lanterns, looking as if she had stepped out of an ancient painting, embodying the Hanfu experience in the heart of this ancient temple.

In front of the Grand Hall of the Great Hero, young visitors stood with incense sticks raised high, making heartfelt wishes. At around 10 PM, I noticed that nearly 90% of the visitors were young people—a stark contrast to the traditional daytime crowds.

Among them were many out-of-town travelers who had come specifically for the unique nighttime Hanfu experience.

A More Relaxed and Peaceful Visit

Even at night, the popular “Eighteen Seeds” prayer beads shop near the Hall of the Heavenly Kings remained open, attracting visitors looking for blessed souvenirs. Unlike the daytime rush, the nighttime shopping experience was much more relaxed, with no long lines or overcrowding.

For those looking for a fresh and enchanting way to experience temple culture, a night visit to Lingyin Temple is a must-try Hanfu experience. Whether you’re there to pray, take stunning Hanfu photos, or simply soak in the temple’s peaceful nighttime atmosphere, it’s an experience that blends ancient traditions with modern curiosity in the most beautiful way.