Xiangji Temple (香积寺), originally named Xingfu Temple, was established in the third year of Taiping Xingguo in the Northern Song Dynasty (978 AD). It was later renamed by Emperor Zhenzong of the Song Dynasty as “Xiangji Temple.” Situated in the Hu Shu area of the Grand Canal in Hangzhou, it held significant prominence in the region. Back in its heyday, with the bustling traffic on the Grand Canal, Xiangji Temple stood as the first temple for vessels entering Hangzhou and the last one before departing. It was a crucial stopover for Buddhist pilgrims traveling from the Grand Canal to Lingyin Temple and Tianzhu Temple in the Hangzhou-Jiaxing-Huzhou area, earning it a revered status in the Buddhist community along the canal and in Hangzhou.
The twin pagodas of Xiangji Temple were constructed in the 52nd year of Kangxi in the Qing Dynasty (1713 AD). Built of stone, they feature an octagonal nine-story tower structure, imitating wooden pavilions. Each level of the pagoda is adorned with balustrades made of green stones and other parts constructed with lake stones. The pagoda base follows the style of a Mount Sumeru, with each layer stacked with a platform, tower body, and eaves, topped with a spire decorated with a treasure gourd, Buddha statues, or scriptures. The pagoda’s design showcases exquisite architectural details, including carved doors and relief sculptures on each side. In 1968, the eastern pagoda in front of Xiangji Temple was dismantled, leaving only the western pagoda. However, in 2010, the eastern pagoda was reconstructed, and the original western pagoda underwent renovation and reinforcement.
Despite its modest exterior appearance, once inside, visitors discover the temple’s spaciousness and the devout atmosphere with numerous lay Buddhists chanting sutras. Additionally, visitors can enjoy complimentary incense offerings, and the temple’s famous vegetarian dishes are a must-try, emitting a fragrant aroma upon arrival.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 20 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 16.45 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0571-88316633 |
Location and Transportation
Xiangji Temple is located at 1 Xiangji Temple Lane, Gongshu District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 65 and get off at Xiangji Temple Stop (香积寺站).
Metro: The closest metro station to the attraction is Xiangjisi (香积寺) on line 3. After getting out of the station from Exit C, walk about 200 meters to the southwest to reach the temple.
