The Lama Temple, also known as Yonghe Temple or Yonghe Lamasery, is the largest and most renowned Tibetan Buddhist temple outside Tibet. Located in central Beijing, this magnificent complex showcases a unique blend of Han Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles, offering visitors a glimpse into China's rich religious and cultural heritage.

Lama Temple

When Lama Temple Built

• Built in 1694 during the Qing Dynasty as a residence for Prince Yong (later Emperor Yongzheng)
• Partially converted into a lamasery in 1722 when Yongzheng became emperor
• Fully transformed into a Tibetan Buddhist temple in 1744 by Emperor Qianlong
• Became the national center of Lama administration during the Qing Dynasty
• Reopened to the public in 1981 after being closed for 32 years
  

  Lama Temple

How Lama Temple Configures

• Total area: 66,400 square meters (6.6 hectares)
• Layout:
  Symmetrical complex facing south
  Five main halls along the central north-south axis
  Seven courtyards
  Various side halls on both sides
• Main structures (from south to north):
  Main gate (Yonghe Gate)
  Hall of the Heavenly Kings
  Hall of Harmony and Peace
  Hall of Everlasting Protection (or Hall of Everlasting Blessings)
  Hall of the Wheel of the Law (or Hall of the Dharma Wheel)
  Pavilion of Ten Thousand Happinesses (or Pavilion of Infinite Happiness)
• Other features:
  661 rooms in total, including 238 Buddhist halls
  Courtyards between main halls
  Bell tower and Drum tower
  Stele pavilions
  Side halls for studying Esoteric Buddhism, Exoteric Buddhism, Tibetan medicine, astronomy, and geography
• Architectural style:
  Integrates Han, Manchu, Mongolian, and Tibetan architectural elements
  Yellow glazed tiles on the roof (indicating imperial status)
  Red walls surrounding the complex

Panorama of Lama Temple

Tour Information about Lama Temple

Address

12 Yonghegong Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, China

Ticket Price

General Admission: 25 CNY
Discounted Admission: 12 CNY for half-price tickets (typically for students or seniors, though specifics may vary)

Opening Hours

April 1 to October 31: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
November 1 to March 31: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Closed on Mondays for maintenance (except public holidays)

How to Get There

• By Subway: Take Line 2 or Line 5 to Yonghegong Lama Temple Station, then use Exit C.
• By Bus: Take bus 13, 116, 117, or 684 to Yonghegong Station.

Travel Tips

• Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the temple thoroughly.
• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene atmosphere.
• Dress modestly out of respect for the religious site.
• Photography is allowed in most areas, but be respectful and ask permission before photographing monks or worshippers.
• Purchase incense at the entrance if you wish to participate in worship activities.
• The temple is still an active place of worship, so maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.

The Buddha in the Lama Temple

Nearby Attractions

• Confucius Temple
• Guozijian Street (Imperial College)
• Ditan Park (Temple of Earth)

The Lama Temple offers a unique opportunity to experience Tibetan Buddhism in the heart of Beijing. Its stunning architecture, intricate artworks, and spiritual atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Chinese culture and religion. As you explore this sacred site, you'll gain insights into the complex relationship between Chinese imperial power and Tibetan Buddhism, all while marveling at some of the finest examples of religious art in China.