The Peak Flying from Afar is 168m above sea level. Because of the erosion caused by groundwater for extremely long time, many marvelous caves were formed in the mountain. According to ancient documentations, there used to be 72 caves, but due to the natural changes in geological structures, most of them have disappeared. The notable existing one is the Shexu Cave (the Gleam of the Sky). If looking at the roof of the cave at proper time of the day, you will see a beam of bright sunlight shining into.
In addition, there are 300 exquisite Buddha statues in the grottos located at the cliff below the summit, which faces the Lingyin Temple. Most of them were carved during the Song and Yuan Dynasties (960-1368). The statue of the smiling Maitreya Buddha in China is the best-preserved one of its kind, and embodies the mastery of carving in the Song Dynasty (960-1279).
Apart from the magnificent caves and grottos, the Peak Flying from Afar has a variety of odd stone figures, such as dragon, elephant and tiger shapes, which were naturally built. Thus the place is like an extraordinary zoo of stone carved animals. Ancient trees are seen all around the peak too.
The well known Chinese poet Su Dongpo once said that "One loves the scenery of the Peak Flying from Afar of the Lingyin Temple best, though beautiful landscape is everywhere" . The Peak Flying from Afar has become one of the most frequently visited attractions in Hangzhou. It is welcomed by tourists and Buddhist followers at home and abroad.
