Lama Temple
Beijing Shi
The Lama Temple, officially known as Yonghe Temple, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Dongcheng District, Beijing. Established originally as a residence for Qing dynasty prince Yinzhen in 1694, it was later converted into a monastery in 1744 under the Qianlong Emperor. The temple is renowned for its unique combination of Han Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles, featuring multiple halls, pavilions, and intricate artworks. It served as the highest Buddhist temple in China during the Qing dynasty and became a national center for Lama administration. The temple houses significant Buddhist statues, such as the massive white sandalwood Maitreya Buddha in the Wanfuge Pavilion and a five-meter tall wooden sculpture of 500 Arhats. After surviving the Cultural Revolution, the temple reopened in 1981 and continues to function both as a religious site and a popular tourist attraction. Its layout includes notable structures such as the Yonghe Gate Hall, Falun Hall, and the Jietai Building, reflecting its rich religious and imperial heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the temple's serene atmosphere. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The temple offers discounts for students and seniors. Modest dress is required, and respectful behavior is expected within the temple grounds. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the temple's historical and religious significance.
Interesting facts
- •The Lama Temple is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China proper.
- •Its architecture uniquely combines Han Chinese and Tibetan styles.
- •The Wanfuge Pavilion houses an 18-meter tall Maitreya Buddha carved from a single white sandalwood tree.
- •The temple was once the residence of the Yongzheng Emperor before his ascension to the throne.
- •It served as the highest Buddhist temple during the Qing dynasty and was the national center for Lama administration.
- •The temple survived the Cultural Revolution due to Premier Zhou Enlai's intervention.
History
Construction began in 1694 as a residence for Prince Yong, later Emperor Yongzheng.
In 1725, it was renamed the Palace of Peace and Harmony and converted into a Tibetan Buddhist monastery by imperial edict in 1744.
The temple became a central religious site during the Qing dynasty, housing many Tibetan and Mongolian monks.
It was closed after 1949 and survived the Cultural Revolution largely intact, reopening to the public in 1981 as a protected cultural monument.
Place Guide
Yonghe Gate Hall18th century
The main entrance hall featuring traditional Chinese imperial architecture, leading visitors into the temple complex.
Falun Hall18th century
A hall dedicated to Buddhist teachings, notable for its intricate Tibetan-style decorations and religious artifacts.
Wanfuge Pavilion18th century
A three-story pavilion housing the giant white sandalwood Maitreya Buddha statue, a masterpiece of Qing dynasty wood carving.
Jietai Building18th century
The building used for Buddhist ordination ceremonies, an important religious site within the temple complex.
Five-Hundred-Arhats Sculpture18th century
A large wooden sculpture carved from rosewood depicting 500 arhats, located behind the Falun Hall.
Contact
Phone: 010 8419 1919
