
Lama Temple
A magnificent Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing, blending imperial grandeur with spiritual serenity and intricate artistry.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Lama Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing, blending imperial grandeur with spiritual serenity and intricate artistry.
"A peaceful sanctuary and a crossroads of history and culture, Lama Temple is truly awe-inspiring."

🎟️ Ticket Advice
Buy tickets at the counter early on weekdays. Avoid weekends if possible .
🚶♀️ Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this active religious site .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Prayer Hall
Main Courtyard
Marvel at the impressive architecture and serene atmosphere of this central hall, a spiritual heart of the temple.

Statue of Tsongkhapa
Hall of Ten Thousand Happinesses
Be awestruck by the colossal, life-sized bronze statue of Tsongkhapa, founder of Tibetan Buddhism's Gelug school.
Incense Burners & Auspicious Symbols
Throughout the complex
Admire the intricate bronze incense burners and symbolic decorations that fill the temple courtyards with spiritual energy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Book Ahead
Respectful Attire & Behavior
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ticket Advice
Buy tickets at the counter early on weekdays. Avoid weekends if possible.
🚶♀️ Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this active religious site.
📸 Photography Etiquette
Photos are generally allowed, but be mindful of worshippers and avoid flash photography.
🚇 Easy Metro Access
Take Metro Line 2 to Andingmen Station for convenient access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket Advice
Buy tickets at the counter early on weekdays. Avoid weekends if possible.
🚶♀️ Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for this active religious site.
📸 Photography Etiquette
Photos are generally allowed, but be mindful of worshippers and avoid flash photography.
🚇 Easy Metro Access
Take Metro Line 2 to Andingmen Station for convenient access.
🙏 Embrace the Serenity
Take your time to soak in the spiritual ambiance and intricate details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lama Temple for its stunning architecture, serene atmosphere, and profound spiritual significance. The colossal statues and intricate details are frequently highlighted as awe-inspiring. Some find the ticket purchasing process a bit tricky on weekends, and occasional temporary closures can cause inconvenience.
"A beautiful Buddhist temple, worth a visit if you're in Beijing. Obviously, there are other priorities, but with three hours to spare, it's a great place to go. Stunning colors and architecture."
Edoardo Carta
"Please note that Google Maps does not work in China. Yonghegong is a Tibetan Buddhist temple complex. It contains many prayer halls, each with a different Buddha with a special theme to which you can pray. In one hall stands the largest Buddha (in China), made from a single piece of wood. The statue is 22 meters tall, of which 18 meters are visible. Currently, the temple complex is always full. If possible, however, it is best to visit this place during the week. Since it is a place of faith, it should be treated/visited with respect. It was a very interesting experience."
Bianca。。 。
"Pretty cool place to check out! Lots of ancient architecture that seems to be Tibetan moreover and lots of scenic areas to take photos at, that is if you can get the peeps here to stop walking in your photo. Definitely recommend!"
Lang Nguyen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple) is by taking the Beijing Metro. Line 2 to Andingmen Station is a popular choice, followed by a short walk.
Alternatively, Line 5 to Beixinqiao Station also works. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.Yes, Lama Temple is very accessible by public transport. The Beijing Metro is the most efficient option, with stations like Andingmen (Line 2) and Beixinqiao (Line 5) being close by.
From downtown Beijing, taking the Metro is highly recommended to avoid traffic. Metro Line 2 to Andingmen Station is a direct and efficient route.
Yes, Lama Temple is located in a vibrant area. Nearby attractions include the Confucius Temple and the Imperial Academy, offering a rich cultural experience.
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Beijing and can take you directly to Lama Temple. However, be aware of potential traffic congestion during peak hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Lama Temple is typically around 25 CNY. It's advisable to check the official website or recent visitor information for the most up-to-date pricing.
While some visitors have reported buying tickets at the entrance, it's wise to consider purchasing in advance, especially if visiting on a weekend or during holidays, as it can sell out.
Lama Temple generally opens around 9:00 AM and closes in the late afternoon, typically around 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to confirm before your visit.
You can often buy tickets at the entrance, but it's not guaranteed, especially on busy days or weekends. Arriving early or booking ahead is a safer bet.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Photography is usually permitted, but be respectful of worshippers and avoid flash.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Lama Temple boasts magnificent halls filled with intricate Buddhist art, statues, and incense burners. Highlights include the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of Dharma Wheel, and the impressive Hall of Ten Thousand Happinesses with its giant Tsongkhapa statue.
Yes, Lama Temple is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China and remains an active place of worship. You'll often see monks and devotees engaged in prayer and rituals.
A typical visit to Lama Temple can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the various halls and appreciating the details.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of Lama Temple, but it's crucial to be respectful of worshippers and avoid using flash, especially in dimly lit halls.
Lama Temple is significant as one of the largest and best-preserved Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside of Tibet. It was originally built as a royal residence before becoming a lamasery, blending imperial and religious architecture.
📸 📸 Photography
The main courtyards with their ornate architecture and incense burners offer great photo opportunities. The Hall of Ten Thousand Happinesses, with its towering Tsongkhapa statue, is a must-capture.
Tripod usage might be restricted in certain areas, especially during peak times or in sensitive religious spaces. It's best to check on-site regulations or use a monopod if needed.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the exterior architecture. For interiors, be prepared for lower light conditions and consider bringing a lens with a wide aperture.
While general photography is allowed, avoid using flash, especially when photographing statues or monks. Always be mindful of worshippers and their privacy.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A prime lens with a fast aperture (e.g., f/1.8) is excellent for low-light interiors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
Walking through the temple, you'll encounter a progression of grand structures, each with its own significance. The Hall of Heavenly Kings greets visitors with imposing statues, while the Hall of Dharma Wheel houses Buddhist scriptures and artwork. The most breathtaking is the Hall of Ten Thousand Happinesses, home to a colossal 18-meter-tall sandalwood statue of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of this statue, along with the intricate bronze incense burners and colorful prayer flags, create an atmosphere of profound spirituality and historical depth.
Spiritual Significance and Visitor Experience
Many visitors come seeking blessings and good fortune, with some believing the temple can bring wealth and prosperity. Whether you are deeply religious or simply appreciate cultural and historical sites, the serene atmosphere and the palpable spiritual energy of Lama Temple are undeniable. It's a place where history, art, and faith converge, offering a unique window into Tibetan Buddhism within the heart of Beijing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit