Written by
Anthony
The Lama Temple, known as Yonghe Gong, is located in the northeast corner of Beijing’s urban area.
It was built in 1694 by Emperor Kangxi as a royal residence for his fourth son, who later became Emperor Yongzheng.
In 1725, the residence was converted into an imperial palace called Yonghe Gong, and after Emperor Yongzheng’s death in 1735, the roof tiles were changed from green to yellow, symbolizing imperial status.
The temple is famous as the birthplace of Emperor Qianlong, making it a “blessed land for dragons” where two emperors lived.
Its yellow tiles and red walls match the grandeur of the Forbidden City.
In 1744, Yonghe Gong was transformed into a Lamaist monastery and became the national center for Tibetan Buddhism affairs during the Qing dynasty.
Recognized in 1983 as a key national Buddhist temple, the complex covers 66,400 square meters, featuring three exquisite archways, five main halls, and over a thousand rooms.
| Address | Yonghe Gong Street, Beijing |
| Area | 66,400 square meters |
| Former Name | Yong Prince’s Mansion |
| Established | 1694 |
| Current Abbot | Lama Hu Xuefeng |
| City | Beijing |
| Recommended Duration | 2–3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 25.00 CNY |
| Opening Hours | Winter/Spring: Nov 1–Mar 31, 09:00–16:30 Summer/Autumn: Apr 1–Oct 31, 09:00–17:00 |
| Official Phone | 010-84191906 |
Lama Temple offers a rare visual feast where Han and Tibetan aesthetics blend in harmony. Crimson walls, gilded roofs, and a distant white stupa shape one of Beijing’s most striking skylines. Intricate carvings in the pavilions whisper ancient Buddhist tales, while the golden deer and Dharma wheel atop Falun Hall echo Tibetan tradition. Inside the towering Wanfuge Pavilion stands a jaw-dropping 18-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha, carved from a single piece of sandalwood that extends 8 meters underground — a true wonder of craftsmanship and devotion.
Once a royal residence and now China’s highest-ranking Tibetan Buddhist temple, Lama Temple is a treasure trove of cultural convergence. From Qing Dynasty inscriptions to sacred thangkas and sutras, every corner reflects the deep connections between Han, Manchu, Mongol, and Tibetan cultures. Within the Hall of the Wheel of the Law, statues of Tsongkhapa and the Eighteen Arhats coexist, symbolizing Lama Temple’s enduring role as a bridge of ethnic unity.
Beyond its historic beauty, Lama Temple is still vibrant with faith. On the 1st and 15th of each lunar month, or during major Buddhist festivals, locals gather here to light incense, chant prayers, and seek blessings for health, peace, and prosperity. The aroma of sandalwood mingles with quiet devotion under its red walls — a deeply human scene that turns the temple into a living sanctuary, not just a monument.
Lama Temple reveals different charms across the seasons, but spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are by far the most pleasant times to visit.
In spring, blooming crabapple and lilac trees frame the crimson walls, while golden roofs shimmer under gentle sunlight. With temperatures around 15–25°C, it’s the perfect time to admire intricate carvings and gilded details without the discomfort of summer heat or winter chill.
Autumn brings a serene beauty. Under a crisp blue sky, the temple’s red walls appear even more vibrant. Wind chimes tinkle softly in the breeze, and the scent of incense lingers in the air. With fewer crowds, it’s easier to pause before the towering sandalwood Maitreya Buddha and feel the depth of spiritual grandeur.
Lunar New Year’s Day (1st of the First Lunar Month): Lama Temple is one of Beijing’s most popular spots to offer the “first incense” of the year. From dawn, worshippers queue with incense sticks, praying for blessings in the new year. The temple glows with lanterns, chants, and solemn rituals, creating a vibrant yet sacred atmosphere.
Lantern Festival (15th of the First Lunar Month): The festive spirit continues, with bright lanterns adorning temple walls and families praying for reunion and peace. The nighttime ambiance is magical, though it’s best to prepare for heavy crowds.
Laba Festival (Eighth Day of the Twelfth Lunar Month): On this winter day, the temple serves free Laba congee — a nourishing porridge made with glutinous rice, red beans, and lotus seeds. It’s a warm tradition that brings smiles and comfort to all who visit.
Adult Ticket: ¥25 per person, includes complimentary incense (available at designated spots within the temple grounds—no need to buy extra).
Free Entry: Children under 1.2 meters (must be accompanied by an adult).
Tickets can be reserved in advance via the official “Yonghegong Visitor Services” WeChat mini program or purchased on-site by scanning a QR code (WeChat Pay and Alipay supported). Advance booking is recommended, especially on holidays, to avoid long queues.
Lama Temple is open year-round, with slight seasonal variations. Winter and spring hours are shorter, while summer and autumn offer extended visiting time.
Winter/Spring (Nov 1 – Mar 31):
Open: 09:00–16:30
Last Entry: 16:00 | Exit Begins: 16:30
Best For: Those who enjoy quiet exploration. In winter, snow on the red walls creates a solemn, timeless ambiance — perfect for photos.
Summer/Autumn (Apr 1 – Oct 31):
Open: 09:00–17:00
Last Entry: 16:30 | Exit Begins: 17:00
Best For: Most visitors. Longer daylight allows ample time to explore the main halls and side pavilions. Sunset reflects off the golden rooftops in stunning contrast.
The central axis of Lama Temple connects its most important halls, guiding visitors from imperial grandeur to sacred serenity.
Your journey begins at the temple’s grand red gate, once reserved for princes and nobles. A stone stele nearby reads “Officials Dismount Here,” a mark of royal reverence. The twin Bell and Drum Towers behind echo the rhythm of ancient rituals, signaling your official entrance into the temple’s sacred axis.
Originally the prince’s residence entrance, this hall is now the Hall of Maitreya. Inside, a laughing Budai Maitreya greets visitors with open arms, flanked by the Four Heavenly Kings, symbols of harmony and protection. Overhead, a plaque inscribed by Emperor Qianlong proclaims “Manifestation of the Wonderful Mind,” adding imperial grace to Buddhist solemnity.
Once the main hall of Prince Yong’s estate, it now houses the Three-Period Buddhas: Dipankara (Past), Shakyamuni (Present), and Maitreya (Future). Gilded and majestic, they sit under a ceiling painted with royal hexi patterns, golden dragons winding between beams—a rare sight outside of palaces.
Formerly Prince Yongzheng’s private residence, this now tranquil hall enshrines the Buddhas of Longevity, Medicine, and Lion’s Roar. Surrounded by prayer flags and soft incense, the peaceful ambiance invites reflection, offering a moment of stillness in contrast to the grandeur of the main halls.
Here, Tibetan architecture takes center stage. The golden Wheel of Dharma flanked by deer on the rooftop represents Buddha’s first teachings. Inside, the founder of the Gelug school, Tsongkhapa, sits at the heart, surrounded by 18 vivid arhats and vibrant murals—blending Han and Tibetan Buddhist traditions in perfect harmony.
This towering 33-meter pavilion is the temple’s highest structure. It houses an awe-inspiring 18-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha carved from a single piece of Indian red sandalwood (zitan). Another 8 meters lie underground. Gifted from Tibet and carved over several years, it’s listed in the Guinness World Records—a true spiritual and artistic wonder.
At the axis’s final stop, Avalokitesvara, Manjusri, and Samantabhadra embody compassion, wisdom, and virtue. The ever-burning incense, gold-topped rooftops, and devoted worshippers complete this sacred pilgrimage—from the earthly gate to spiritual fulfillment.
Beyond the grand central axis, the side halls of Lama Temple reveal a quieter, deeper layer of its cultural soul. Though less imposing than the main halls, these east and west wings reflect the temple’s diversity and spiritual depth—perfect for those who seek to slow down and explore with intention.
This hall offers a rare glimpse into Tantric (Vajrayana) Buddhism, the esoteric branch of Tibetan faith. Inside, statues of Vajradhara and Yamantaka appear fierce and powerful, with multiple arms and wrathful expressions—symbols not of violence, but of conquering inner afflictions through wisdom. The surrounding thangka paintings and mandala murals, created with mineral pigments, remain vibrant even after centuries. Every motif and inscription reveals layers of meaning, inviting visitors to reflect on the union of the visible and the hidden—the very essence of Tantric philosophy.
In contrast to the mystical east, the west hall speaks of scholarly legacy and spiritual transmission. Once a venue for lamas to study and teach scripture, the hall still preserves its original layout: a central teaching platform surrounded by shelves stacked with Tibetan sutras, their edges burnished from generations of use. Inside glass cases rest ritual instruments—vajras, bells, prayer wheels—each carrying its own liturgical role. Standing here, one can almost hear the deep chanting of bygone monks and feel the temple’s enduring role as a center of Buddhist learning.
Tucked beside the Falun Hall on the west side stand two elegant towers. The Jietai Tower, once used for ordination ceremonies, features a raised altar carved with Buddhist tales, symbolizing the spiritual ascent of practitioners. The Panchen Tower, named for its role in hosting high lamas like the Panchen Erdeni, is modest yet dignified, with traditional furnishings still arranged as they were during important visits. The architecture blends Chinese elegance with Tibetan ornamentation—glazed tile roofs, lotus-carved beams, and even Sanskrit scripture etched into the brickwork—silent testaments to the craftsmanship and respect shared between two great cultures.
At Lama Temple, the tradition of making wishes through incense has endured for centuries. Understanding the etiquette and symbolism behind each gesture adds meaning to the ritual and deepens your spiritual experience.
Your entry ticket includes three complimentary eco-friendly incense sticks—no extra purchase needed. These can be picked up at the entrance or in designated areas within the temple. Note: outside incense is prohibited for environmental and safety reasons.
Light the incense (use communal flame, do not blow it out with your mouth).
Hold the incense upright with both hands above your forehead, close your eyes, and silently make your wish.
Face the incense burner, bow three times respectfully.
Place the incense neatly into the burner—do not toss it randomly or carry it inside the halls.
Incense must remain outside—never bring it into inner halls.
Be mindful of others: no cutting lines, loud conversation, or rushing.
The value lies in sincerity, not in the amount of incense offered.
Each main hall has a unique symbolic focus—choosing the right one aligns your wishes with deeper meaning:
Yonghegong Hall:
Home to the Three-Period Buddhas (Past, Present, Future). Pray here for career success, academic progress, and a bright future—transforming past efforts into momentum and present focus into tomorrow’s achievements.
Yongyou Hall:
Houses Amitayus Buddha (longevity), Medicine Buddha (health), and Lion’s Roar Buddha (disaster protection). This is the best place to wish for family wellness, elder longevity, and peace across generations.
Falun Hall:
Dedicated to Tsongkhapa, symbol of wisdom in Tibetan Buddhism, surrounded by 18 Arhats, who help dispel confusion. Pray here for mental clarity, fewer life obstacles, and balanced judgment.
Wanfu Pavilion:
Features an 18-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha, carved from a single block of sandalwood. His serene smile invites blessings of joy, harmony, love, and a prosperous future—perfect for those seeking hope and emotional fulfillment.
Sold only at official temple gift counters (e.g., beside Yonghe Gate or near Suicheng Hall), this bracelet combines incense ash with glass beads—a symbol of peace and good fortune. Popular with visitors, so come early or avoid peak times. Watch out for imitations outside the temple; look for the official tag: “Yonghe Temple Dharma Merchandise.”
At the temple exit store, you can find:
Postcards featuring temple scenes
Wooden wishing plaques (write your prayer and hang it in designated areas)
Temple-themed stamps to mark your visit (bring your own notebook or buy one onsite)
These small tokens let you carry a piece of the temple’s spiritual warmth back into everyday life.
Reaching Lama Temple is easy with Beijing’s well-connected public transit. Subway is the most recommended option for convenience and time-saving. Driving is possible but requires advance parking planning. Once inside the scenic area, the temple is best explored on foot.
Take Line 2 or Line 5 to Yonghegong Station and use Exit E (Southeast Exit)—the closest one to the temple’s main gate. After exiting, walk about 300 meters along Yonghegong Street. Within 5 minutes, you’ll arrive at Zhaotai Gate, the grand entrance to the complex.
✅ No traffic, no stress—this is the optimal route.
Several bus routes stop near the temple:
Take 13, 18, 44 Inner Loop, 116, 117, or Night Bus 6 to Yonghegongqiao East Stop. From there, walk 5–8 minutes north along Yonghegong Street.
Alternatively, take Special Line 12 (Inner Loop) to Yonghegong Stop, right across the street from the temple entrance.
💡 Tip: Alipay transit QR codes work on buses in Beijing—no need for a transport card.
Lama Temple is a pedestrian-only zone with no sightseeing shuttles or vehicles. The walking route takes around 1.5–2 hours and passes through dense clusters of ancient halls, red walls, and golden roofs—perfect for a slow, immersive stroll.
Feeling tired? Rest on the shaded platforms, corridor benches, or designated break areas before continuing your journey.
A trip to Lama Temple isn’t just about one landmark—it’s a gateway to Beijing’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re drawn to temples and Confucian classics or seek the soul of the city in its old hutongs, these two thoughtfully designed itineraries offer a full day of exploration and inspiration.
Perfect for history buffs and cultural explorers seeking depth and serenity.
Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid the crowds. Start your journey along the temple’s central axis—from the Zhaotai Gate to Wanfuge. Be sure not to miss the 18-meter sandalwood Maitreya Buddha and the golden deer-flanked Dharma Wheel Hall. It’s a powerful blend of Tibetan faith and imperial elegance.
Exit via the temple’s east gate and walk 500 meters. Once the highest educational institution in imperial China, the academy’s Biyong Hall was where emperors gave lectures. Don’t miss the “Jinshi Name Steles”—carved with over 50,000 names of successful imperial exam scholars.
Right next to the academy, this tranquil site honors the great sage. The Dacheng Hall houses statues of Confucius and his disciples. Look out for the quirky “Hat-Knocking Cypress,” and admire the ancient steles bearing imperial inscriptions, many set on dragon-carved bases.
Exit the Confucius Temple’s north gate and stroll 10 minutes to this artsy alley. Quieter than Nanluoguxiang but just as charming, Wudaoying is dotted with craft boutiques, indie cafés, and fusion eateries. Enjoy a slow lunch at “Saffron” (Spanish cuisine) or “King’s Joy” (vegan fine dining) while soaking in the laid-back hutong vibe.
Best for families and laid-back explorers who enjoy mixing heritage with snacks and scenery.
Focus on the side halls—the East Hall’s Tibetan thangkas and the West Hall’s ancient scriptures and ritual instruments offer a deeper layer of understanding beyond the main axis.
Exit through the west gate and take a 10-minute cab ride to this park, once the site of imperial earth sacrifices. The square altar structure reflects ancient cosmology—“square earth beneath round heavens.” In April, the peony garden blooms in full color; in October, weekend temple fairs bring back old Beijing flavors with food stalls and crafts.
From Ditan’s south gate, hop on Subway Line 2 at Andingmen Station and transfer to Line 5 at Beixinqiao. Walk 10 minutes to reach this iconic alleyway. It’s a paradise for street food lovers: try double-skin milk pudding from Wenyu Dairy, stir-fried liver from Yaoji, and sticky rice cakes from Huguosi Snacks. End your stroll with a visit to small theaters or local design studios. As dusk falls and lanterns light up, the mix of old courtyards and neon storefronts gives Nanluoguxiang a glow that’s uniquely Beijing.
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