Yonghe Temple

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Spot Introduction

Yonghe Temple, originally built in the 33rd year of Kangxi Emperor’s reign in the Qing Dynasty (1694), was formerly the residence of the Prince of Yongqin and later converted into a royal temple. It is the largest and most well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist temple in China, and one of the most famous Buddhist venues in Beijing.

Occupying an area of 66,000 square meters, the architectural complex of Yonghe Temple is rigorously laid out, with a unique architectural style that blends the artistic features of Han, Manchu, Mongolian, and Tibetan ethnic groups. The main buildings are symmetrically distributed along the north-south central axis, including the Pailou, Zhaotai Gate, Tianwang Hall, Yonghe Temple Hall, Yongyou Hall, Falun Hall, and Wanfu Pavilion. Among them, the Wanfu Pavilion houses a 26-meter-high Maitreya Buddha statue carved from a single piece of white sandalwood, which is the world’s largest wooden Buddha statue.

As a royal temple of the Qing Dynasty, Yonghe Temple has witnessed important historical moments of many emperors. Emperor Yongzheng lived here before ascending the throne, and Emperor Qianlong held many important religious ceremonies here. Today, Yonghe Temple is not only an important Buddhist venue but also a significant cultural heritage for studying Qing Dynasty history, religion, and architectural art. As the most representative Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing, Yonghe Temple plays a vital role in promoting ethnic unity and inheriting traditional culture. It welcomes millions of Chinese and foreign tourists every year, becoming an essential window showcasing Chinese religious culture.

Every lunar January 15th, Yonghe Temple holds a grand “exorcism” ceremony, attracting many believers and tourists. Additionally, the temple houses numerous precious cultural relics, including Buddha statues, Thangkas, ritual implements, and scriptures, showcasing the unique charm of Tibetan Buddhist art.

Spot Introduction

In recent years, the Yonghegong Lama Temple has actively carried out international cultural exchange activities, becoming an important platform for cultural exchanges between China and foreign countries.

Must-see Attractions

  1. Wanfu Pavilion

    • 26-meter-high Buddha statue
    • The world’s largest wooden carved Buddha
    • Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes

  2. Falun Hall

    • The main hall of Tibetan Buddhism
    • Buddhist art of the Qing Dynasty
    • Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes

  3. Yonghegong Exhibition Hall

    • Display of Buddhist cultural relics
    • Historical and cultural exhibitions
    • Suggested visiting time: 40 minutes

  4. Heping Gate

    • Royal architectural style
    • Historical and cultural relics
    • Suggested visiting time: 20 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route

    • Temple Gate → Heavenly Kings Hall → Yonghe Hall → Falun Hall → Wanfu Pavilion
    • It is suggested to visit in the order of the temple layout.

  2. Visiting Schedule

    • The morning is the most peaceful time for visiting.
    • The temple is busy on the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month.
    • There are more visitors during holidays.

  3. Practical Tips

    • Dress appropriately.
    • No photography inside the halls.
    • Maintain quietness and solemnity.

Transportation Guide

  • Subway: Line 2 or 5, Yonghegong Station
  • Bus: Multiple lines including 13, 116, 684
  • Self-drive: It is recommended to park at the Yonghegong parking lot.
  • Taxi: It is convenient to take a taxi in the city.
  1. Yonghegong Snack Street
  2. Guozijian Snacks
  3. Traditional Beijing Cuisine
  4. Vegetarian Restaurant

Special Reminders

  1. No photography inside the halls.
  2. Keep your clothing neat.
  3. Maintain quietness and dignity.
  4. Follow the temple rules.
  5. Be careful with incense burning.
  6. It is recommended to hire a professional guide.
  7. Make an online reservation in advance.
  8. Respect religious customs.