Overview
Lama Temple, also known as Yonghegong, is a renowned Buddhist temple and a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture. It was originally built as an imperial palace in the early 18th century and later converted into a temple.
Lama Temple is one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in Beijing. It houses a 18-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha and is a significant cultural and religious site.
Location
Address
12 Yonghegong Ave., Dongcheng, Beijing
Neighborhood: Dongcheng District
Coordinates
39.952700, 116.410400
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • flowers
- • gardens
summer
hot
- • extended hours
autumn
cool
- • fall colors
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring ID
- Check weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • crowds
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, modest clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Lama Temple Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Events
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Beijing Capital International Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 40 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, cultural significance
Historical Significance: Important religious site, imperial history
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for locals
- Best local food at nearby street markets
Local Recommendations
- • Try local snacks at nearby stalls
- • Ask for a guide at the entrance
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Chinese, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle
Result: Great shot of the entrance gate
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Confucius Temple
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Temple
Bell Tower
Distance: 600m
Walking: 8 min
Type: Historical Site
Prince Gong's Mansion
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Museum
Chaoyang Theatre Acrobatic Show
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Theatre
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views"
- "Dress modestly"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Beijing Mutianyu or Badaling Great Wall Private Tour with Options
Full-Day Beijing City Tour: Hutongs, Lama Temple and Panda House
Early Bird Great Wall Private Tour with Chinese Breakfast from Beijing
Beijing Private Transfer to Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall
Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall and Tea House with English Driver
Mini Group: Beijing Forbidden City Tour with Great Wall Hiking at Mutianyu
Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Highlights and Great Wall Tour
Beijing Private transfer to Longqing Gorge
3-Day Private Beijing Tour with Forbidden City, Great Wall, Hutong and Lunch
3-Day Private Beijing Highlights Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train
One-Day Beijing City Tour: Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven
2-Day Private VIP Sightseeing Tour of Beijing City Highlights and Great Wall
Beijing Highlights Tour: Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall
Private Day Trip to Datong from Beijing with English Speaking Driver
Beijing Forbidden City Skip-the-Line and Huanghuacheng Great Wall Private Tour
Private Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking Tour from Beijing
Beijing Private Tour: Temple of Heaven, Guozijian Museum, Drum Tower, Hutong ...
Self-Guided Tour of Tianjin City from Beijing with English Speaking Driver
Private Day Trip to see Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Beijing
Private Day Tour to Datong from Beijing by Train: Yungang Caves, Hanging Temple
Best Beijing Day Tour To Forbidden City and Great Wall
Acrobatics Show plus Ding Tai Fung Dinner Experience in Beijing
Private Day Tour to Datong from Beijing by Bullet Train
Beijing Private Tour of Forbidden City, Hutong Tours, Acrobatics Show and More
Quick Info
Available Tours
259
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
¥25