Arhat Hall

Introducing Luohan Hall

Located south of the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, the Arhat Hall is a unique courtyard built during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty. It is shaped like a Chinese field (田). Outside the pavilion, statues of the Four Heavenly Kings are located, while the Three Buddhas of the Past, Present, and Future are enshrined in the center. Within the hall, 508 gilded, lacquered, and wooden Arhat statues are arranged in a field-like pattern, each depicting a unique array of poses. Among them, the 444th Arhat, "Po Xie Jian Zun Zhe," wears a helmet, robe, and boots, hands resting on his knees, his face awe-inspiring and regal. It is said that this is a gilded statue carved for himself by Emperor Qianlong. A statue of Ji Gong is also located on the hall beam. The Arhat Hall remains remarkably well-preserved, making it one of the few temples in China to do so.

Climate and best time to travel

North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the Xiangshan Park ticket

Attraction opening hours

06:00-18:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Arhat Hall

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Arhat Hall is a famous Buddhist temple located in Beijing, known for its historical significance in Chinese Buddhism. The hall is home to a series of sculptures depicting the 500 Arhats, disciples of Buddha, each with distinct facial expressions and postures. It is an important site for religious and cultural study.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Arhat Hall is located within the Fayuan Temple in central Beijing. You can take subway Line 7 to the Caishikou Station, and from there, it’s a short walk. Alternatively, buses and taxis are convenient transportation options for visitors.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Arhat Hall is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon on weekdays, as it tends to be less crowded compared to weekends and holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around ¥20. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the ticket counter. There are no online booking options currently, but it is advisable to arrive early during peak tourist seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but if you plan to visit during a public holiday or peak season, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore Arhat Hall, including time to appreciate the statues and the surrounding temple grounds.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the collection of 500 Arhat statues, each with a unique design. Don't miss the serene temple environment, and take time to observe the details in the statue carvings.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours in Mandarin are available. Audio guides in English may be available upon request, but it’s best to confirm availability beforehand at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are inside the hall itself, focusing on the rows of Arhat statues. The surrounding temple grounds also offer beautiful shots, especially near the main entrance and tranquil courtyards.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the main hall and walking around to admire the Arhat statues. Afterward, explore the surrounding temple grounds, which include peaceful gardens and smaller temples. Take time to appreciate the temple's serene atmosphere.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available. However, the temple is a peaceful place for reflection and is more serene during late afternoon hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It tends to be less crowded on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and holidays can be quite busy, so visiting early on weekdays is ideal for a quieter experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The temple has basic facilities such as toilets and water stations. There are no large food stalls or shops within the temple grounds, but nearby areas offer a variety of restaurants and cafes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Arhat Hall is relatively accessible for elderly and children, with paved walkways and stairs. However, the temple's architecture may not be fully suited for disabled visitors due to some uneven terrain and limited ramps.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Cash is also widely used, but credit cards are not commonly accepted within the temple grounds.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby, there are several local restaurants and cafes serving traditional Chinese food, including vegetarian options. You can find more dining choices at the Xidan area, which is a short distance away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian options available at nearby restaurants, and halal food is available in the surrounding areas, particularly near local Muslim neighborhoods in Beijing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels close to Arhat Hall, including budget options like Beijing City Centre Youth Hostel and more upscale choices such as the Beijing Xidan Hotel.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, and Tiananmen Square. All are accessible via public transport and can be easily combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few small shops around the temple selling religious artifacts, incense, and traditional Chinese crafts, such as tea sets and silk scarves. These make for great cultural souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

You can continue your trip by taking the subway from Caishikou Station to other major tourist areas like Wangfujing or the Forbidden City. Taxis are also a good option for further exploration of the city.