The renowned Ling Shun Temple, celebrated as "The First Wealth God Temple in the World," is located atop Beigao Peak in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. With a history spanning over 1,600 years, it is one of Hangzhou's oldest and most illustrious temples. Originally established during the Xianhe era of the Eastern Jin Dynasty by the Indian monk Master Huili, Ling Shun Temple holds a distinguished position as one of the earliest Buddhist temples in the region. During the Northern Song Dynasty, the temple gained immense fame for its veneration of the "Five Manifest Wealth Gods," earning the title "Wealth God Temple." By the Ming Dynasty, it had further solidified its reputation as "The First Wealth God Temple in the World."
Ling Shun Temple occupies a significant position in the Buddhist community while also embracing elements of folk beliefs. Within the temple, devotees worship Huaguang Wealth God, Literary and Martial Wealth Gods, and the Esoteric Five-Lineage Wealth Gods, embodying aspirations for prosperity, longevity, happiness, health, and peace. Over the centuries, the temple has attracted emperors and literary figures, including Emperor Huizong of Song, Emperor Kangxi, Emperor Qianlong, Tang Dynasty poet Fang Gan, and Song Dynasty literary giant Su Dongpo, all of whom left behind poems and calligraphy, enriching its cultural legacy.
During Chinese New Year, Ling Shun Temple offers an immersive festive experience. From adorning windows with intricate paper-cut designs to hanging couplets and distributing red envelopes brimming with blessings, the temple’s traditions bring wealth and prosperity to life. Paired with the annual Wealth God Temple calendar, these rituals heighten the festive atmosphere. Carrying a symbolic “money pouch” from the temple is believed to invite abundant fortune and blessings for the year ahead.
Celebrate the New Year with Ling Shun Temple’s timeless charm and usher in a prosperous, joyful, and fulfilling year!
