Your experience begins at the South Arch of the Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple), one of the most revered Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside of Tibet. Originally built in 1694 as the residence of Prince Yong (later Emperor Yongzheng of the Qing Dynasty), it was converted into a lamasery in 1744. This unique transformation from an imperial palace to a spiritual sanctuary infuses the site with unparalleled historical depth and sacred energy. As you proceed along the central axis, you will encounter a series of magnificent halls, including the Hall of Harmony and Peace (Yonghegong), the Hall of Eternal Blessing (Yongyoudian), and the Hall of the Wheel of the Law (Falundian). Each hall houses exquisite statues, thangkas, and artifacts, representing a fusion of Han, Manchu, Mongolian, and Tibetan artistic styles. The climax of your visit is the awe-inspiring Wanfu Pavilion, home to a majestic 26-meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha carved from a single sandalwood tree—a Guinness World Record holder. Here, amidst the scent of sandalwood and the murmur of prayers, you can participate in the temple's renowned wishing ritual. Following local custom, you may light incense, offer a silent prayer, and make a heartfelt wish at the designated areas, connecting with a tradition believed by many to bring fortune and fulfillment. The entire site, open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (winter) / 5:00 PM (summer), offers a serene escape from the city's bustle, allowing you to absorb centuries of faith, art, and history in a single, profound visit.
