Yonghe Lama Temple, also known as the Lama Temple, is a famous Buddhist temple located in Beijing, China. It is a popular tourist attraction and an important site for Buddhist pilgrims. Here are some things to do and see in Yonghe Lama Temple:
Admire the architecture: The temple complex consists of five main halls and many smaller buildings, all of which are beautifully decorated with intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures. The buildings are built in the traditional Chinese style, with colorful tiled roofs and ornate wooden beams.
Learn about the history: Yonghe Lama Temple was first built in the late 17th century as a palace for a Qing dynasty prince, but was later converted into a lamasery for Tibetan Buddhism. Today, it is the largest and most well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing.
Visit the Hall of Harmony and Peace: This is the main hall of the temple complex, where visitors can see the largest statue of Maitreya Buddha in China. The hall also houses several other large statues of Buddhist deities and is adorned with beautiful murals and other decorations.
Explore the other halls: Each of the five main halls in the temple complex has its own unique character and houses a variety of Buddhist artifacts and artwork. For example, the Hall of Everlasting Protection has a large bronze statue of the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, while the Hall of the Wheel of the Law contains a collection of Tibetan Buddhist scriptures.
Watch the monks in action: The temple is still an active monastery, and visitors can watch the resident monks as they perform their daily rituals and practices. You may see them chanting, meditating, or performing other Buddhist ceremonies.
Make an offering: Visitors can also make offerings at the temple, such as burning incense or leaving a donation. These offerings are a way to show respect to the Buddhist deities and to support the ongoing maintenance of the temple.
Shop for souvenirs: Finally, don’t forget to check out the souvenir shops located throughout the temple complex. Here you can find a variety of Buddhist-themed items, including prayer beads, incense, and artwork.
Overall, a visit to Yonghe Lama Temple is a fascinating and enriching experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Tibetan Buddhism in China.