The Lama Temple (Yonghe)
This attraction goes by many names—Yonghe Lamasery, Yonghe Lama Temple, and, Harmony and Peace Palace Lamasery, which is the easiest to remember for most tourists. Located in Beijing City's northeast corner, it is China's largest monastery of lamas that is perfectly preserved.
Considering that it was built in 1694, seeing the temple in its original structure would make it worth visiting.
Make sure to allocate 1 to 2 hours to explore it. If you happen to be a lover of history and Chinese culture or an architectural enthusiast, you'll want to spend more time there.
Some of the features you must see are the three artworks that made it to the Guinness World Record:
- The largest wooden Buddha - White Sandalwood statue of the Maitreya Buddha
- The Buddhas of the Three Ages - Buddhas of past, present, and future
- The 500-Arhat-Hill
You can also engage in several activities while in the temple, such as listening to the monks chanting, and experiencing how the locals worship and burn incense to Buddha.
Stretching 6.6 hectares, you're going to need a guide or a tour to visit the Lama Temple (Yonghe). Contact La Vacanza for more information.