One of the must-visit spots for the 2025 Spring Festival.
Beijing, a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage, offers different sceneries in every season. In winter, when snowflakes are falling and the city is covered in a silver blanket, Beijing presents a unique charm. Especially when you stroll between the red walls and yellow tiles, feeling the serene and profound atmosphere, you will discover another side of the city - Yonghe Temple, a place filled with faith and spirituality.
Yonghe Temple, located in the northeast corner of the inner city of Dongcheng District, Beijing, is an important temple of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism during the Qing Dynasty. It is also a symbol of cultural exchange and integration among Han, Manchu, Mongolian, and Tibetan ethnic groups. Built in the 33rd year of the Kangxi reign (1694), it was initially the residence of the fourth son of the emperor, Yinzhen (later Emperor Yongzheng), and was later converted into a royal Buddhist temple, becoming the largest center of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism in the mainland.
In winter, when the ground is covered with white snow, Yonghe Temple dons a white coat, appearing even more solemn and mysterious. The red walls and yellow tiles contrast sharply with the white ground, creating a picturesque scene. Visiting Yonghe Temple at this time, you will find an unprecedented tranquility and peace. Walking under the long corridors, listening to the crunch of snow under your feet, and smelling the faint scent of incense in the air, it seems that all worries are blown away by the wind, and your soul is purified and calmed.
The main buildings in the temple, such as the Hall of the Four Heavenly Kings, Yonghe Palace, Hall of the Wheel of the Law, Pavilion of Ten Thousand Happinesses, Panchen Hall, and the Great Hall of Ganden, are arranged in an orderly manner, resplendent and magnificent. Every brick and tile tells a story of history. Especially the world's largest wooden statue of Maitreya Buddha, standing 26 meters high, is awe-inspiring. In addition, there are many precious cultural relics such as Buddha statues, murals, and Thangkas, showcasing profound artistic heritage.
In such a cold winter day, entering Yonghe Temple is not only an exploration of historical culture but also a spiritual baptism. Here, you can temporarily put aside the complexities of the secular world and find inner peace. Whether you are a devout believer or a traveler seeking beauty, you can find solace and enlightenment here.
Although Beijing's winter is harsh, at Yonghe Temple, you can feel the warmth and light from the depths of your heart. It is the power of faith, the inheritance of culture, and a bridge connecting the past and the future. If you have the opportunity to visit Beijing in winter, do not miss Yonghe Temple, and let this unique beauty and tranquility become an unforgettable memory for you.