Trip to the most ‘splendid city in world’ a must OF CHINESE GEM

Buddhist temple of Lingyin, one of the largest in China. Built in 328 AD by the Indian Monk Huili, who saw the beauty of the mountains and thought it was a haven for immortals, it’s known as Soul’s Retreat.

Through an arched gate, shaded by giant trees, is Fei Lai Feng (meaning the Peak that Flew Hither), a rocky green limestone summit, which is recognised as a symbol of Buddhist power. The face below the peak is etched with a smiley Maitreya Buddha and depictions of animals such as a walking elephant, a hovering dragon, a fleeing tiger and an escaping monkey, all believed to have been carved a thousand years ago during the Song and Yuan Dynasties.

Opposite Fei Lai Feng is Lingyin Temple. Inside is the Heavenly Kings Hall, featuring a statue of Maitreya Buddha sitting on a rush cushion. While in the Daxiong Baodian stands the statue of Sakyamuni, as well as a library and four other decorated halls, which are open for prayers.

Back in the city, I managed to squeeze in a visit to the China National Silk Museum, which tells the story of Chinese silk and how it’s made, before some souvenir shopping on the buzzing streets of Drum Tower and Zhongshan Lu.

These are packed with stores selling interesting gifts and tea houses.

China’s national drink, the aromatic Dragon Well tea, is grown in nearby Longjing Village where farmers in the plantation fields process the leaves by hand.

Meanwhile, food in the vast array of restaurants is crispy and lightly spiced. Fish and shrimps served in sweet and sour sauce with rice is a delicious main staple.

For the classic city experience, stay at the Chaptel Hangzhou, a brick-built, art deco hotel by Relais & Chateaux.

Rooms boast traditional Chinese furniture as well as wooden shutters, spacious bathrooms with Molton Brown toiletries, separate living areas and private candlelit balconies perfect for soaking up the bustling city life with glimpses over the peaceful oasis of the West Lake.