One of Nanjing's famous scenic spots, Linggu Temple, which claims to be 'the best Buddhist temple in the world', is situated to the east of Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum. It was built in the Liang Dynasty (502-557), one of the Southern Dynasties (420-589). Over time, the name of the temple has changed several times. Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), gave it the current name of 'Linggu Temple'.

The environment in the temple is very pleasant. The temple is surrounded by aged dark green trees. The sweet fragrance of flowers pervades, and the sound of the bell is melodious. The forest and springs around add vitality and wild pleasure to the temple.

The temple contains the Xuanzang Memorial Hall, which is built in memory of a famous monk in the Tang Dynasty (618-907). The picture of the route that Xuanzang walked and the sutra he translated are also stored in the temple. There are also several other sights such as Non-beam Hall, Linggu Pagoda and Songfeng Pavilion.

The name of Non-beam Hall has interesting origins. Originally the temple was named Wuliang Hall as a memorial ceremony, for a Buddha named 'Wu Liang' was held there. Because it is constructed without any wood, it can also be called 'Non-beam Hall'. However, 'non-beam' is also pronounced 'Wu Liang' in Chinese.

The temple is famous in Chinese history. It is said that in the Ming Dynasty, Linggu Temple flourished. Crowds filled the place to burn joss sticks. It is said that the temple could hold 1,000 monks at that time.

The vegetarian diet in the temple is renowned for over 600 years. The ingredients of the dishes are chosen very carefully; the cooking is very meticulous; the appearance of the food is also very nice. Though the dishes are without meat, the taste is even better than the ones with meat. Shensong House, the famous vegetarian restaurant in the temple, lies to the east of Songlin Pavilion. Surrounded Shensong House, is a thick forest and blooming flowers. To the east of Shensong House, a spring runs under a bridge, and to the west, the sound of the bell emanates from the ancient temple. Dining here can bring you both the wonderful taste of the food and an enjoyment of natural beauty.