Temples

Those interested in the Chinese temples should consider staying at the gorgeous Amanfayun, which is literally surrounded by a circuit of seven Buddhist and Taoist temples. The most famous is Lingyin Temple, the Temple of the Soul’s Retreat and one of China’s largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples. Its stunning pagodas and Buddhist grottoes draw a massive crowd of tourists, so another advantage to staying at Amanfayun is that you can beat the crowds and walk there right when it opens. Another one not to miss is the smaller, but equally beautifully and perhaps more serene Yongfu Temple, whose monks have a special relationship with Amanfayun and invite guests to join in their morning and evening prayers.