Lama Temple and Guangji Temple Atraction China Tourism Guide

Lama Temple
This temple was built for Count Yin Zhen in 1723 who lived there before moving to the Forbidden City when he became Emperor Yongzheng. As you enter, you pass the Drum Tower and Bell Tower and in front is the Hall of Heavenly Kings with a statue of Maitreiya. There are a number of halls to explore the Hall of Harmony, Hall of Eternal Blessing and the Hall of the Wheel Law. The Pavilion of 10,000 blessings has a large statue of the Buddha standing 18 metres tall. Close by is the Temple of Confucius. Located at 12 Yonghegong Da Jie, Dongcheng District.

Originally, Yonghegong was a palatial residence of the Prince Yinzhen, the fourth son of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty. It was built in 1694 after Prince Yinzhen was given the title “Yong Prince” and the palace was named “Palace Mansion of Yong Prince”. After Yong Prince succeeded the throne in 1723, he moved to the Forbidden City and became the Emperor Yongzheng. In 1725, he turned half of his former residence into a temple for the monks of the Yellow Sect and the other half became a temporary place where he came for his personal use.

Guangji Temple

Built in the Jin Dynasty, the Guangji Temple has a main gate, the Heavenly King Hall, Mahavira Hall, Yuantong Hall and Sutra Hall. Inside the Heavenly King Hall is the statue of the Maitreya Buddha. In the second courtyard is the Mahavira Hall and the Yuantong Hall in the third courtyard is the residence of Buddhisattva.

Originally built in the Jin Dynasty (1115-1234), additions were made to the temple by successive dynasties. The present temple was completed during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the original structure having undergone three expansions, three fires, and three reconstructions. It now covers an area of 5.766 acres. The major structures in the temple are the main gate, the Heavenly King Hall, Mahavira Hall, Yuantong Hall (or Buddhisattva Hall) and Sutra Hall.

Located on Inner Fuchengmen Street, in the Xicheng District, Guangji Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China. It is now the headquarters of the Chinese Buddhism Association, and the center to conduct national Buddhist activities.