Yonghe Temple

**Yonghe Temple**, located in Dongcheng District, Beijing, is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist temples in Beijing and a key national cultural relic site. Below is a detailed introduction to Yonghe Temple: --- ### **History** - **Originally built**: in 1694 (the 33rd year of the reign of Emperor Kangxi) as the residence of his fourth son, Prince Yong (the future Emperor Yongzheng). It was then known as the Prince Yong Mansion. - **Designated an imperial residence**: In 1725, after Yongzheng ascended the throne, the mansion was elevated to an imperial residence and renamed Yonghe Palace. - **Converted into a temple**: In 1744, Emperor Qianlong converted it into a Gelugpa Tibetan Buddhist temple, symbolizing the imperial faith and national unity of the Qing Dynasty. --- ### **Architectural Features** Yonghe Temple covers an area of approximately 66,000 square meters and features a blend of Han, Tibetan, Manchu, and Mongolian architectural styles. The main buildings are arranged along a north-south central axis, including: 1. **Zhaotai Gate**: The main entrance to the temple, flanked by glazed screen walls. 2. **Hall of Heavenly Kings**: Houses statues of Maitreya Buddha, the Four Heavenly Kings, and Skanda. 3. **Yonghe Palace** (Main Hall): Houses statues of the Buddhas of the Three Ages (past, present, and future) and the Eighteen Arhats. 4. **Hall of the Dharma Wheel**: Features five gilded Tibetan stupas on its roof and houses a bronze statue of Je Tsongkhapa and the Tripitaka. 5. **Pavilion of Ten Thousand Happinesses**: The tallest building in Yonghe Temple, housing an 18-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha (carved from white sandalwood and listed in the Guinness World Records). --- ### **Cultural Significance** - **Religious status**: Served as an imperial temple during the Qing Dynasty and is now an important venue for Tibetan Buddhist activities. - **Art treasures**: Preserves a large collection of Buddhist statues, thangkas, ritual objects, and murals, showcasing the essence of Buddhist art. - **Historical witness**: Bears witness to the Qing Dynasty's policy of "Gaitu Guiliu" (literally "changing local officials with centrally appointed ones") and the religious connections between the central government and the Mongolian and Tibetan regions. - **Festivals and events**: Attracts numerous visitors with traditional activities such as the Laba Festival porridge distribution and the "Ghost Beating" ceremony (Tsam dance) during the Lunar New Year. --- ### **Visitor Information** - **Opening hours**: Winter (November–March): 9:00 am–4:30 pm Summer (April–October): 9:00 am–5:00 pm - **Tickets**: CNY 25 per person (may be slightly higher during peak season). Tickets can be purchased on-site or booked in advance through official channels. - **Transportation**: Take Subway Line 2 or Line 5 to Yonghegong Station, Exit F. The temple is within walking distance. - **Suggested visit duration**: Allow 2–3 hours. Consider hiring a guide or using an audio guide to learn about the history and culture. --- ### **Tips** - Photography is prohibited inside the halls. Please observe temple etiquette (e.g., clockwise circumambulation, no loud talking). - Free incense is available at the entrance; there is no need to purchase it elsewhere. - The surrounding area features traditional hutong neighborhoods and the unique Wudaoying Hutong, which can be combined with your visit. Yonghe Temple integrates history, religion, and art. It is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to experience the cultural heritage of Beijing.