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Visit the temple's historic architecture, including its serene courtyards and beautiful wooden beams. Take time to explore the Buddhist statues and altars inside. The surrounding area is perfect for a peaceful walk, and you can also participate in temple ceremonies or lighting incense for a traditional experience.
Guangji Temple, located on Fuchengmennei Street in Xicheng District, Beijing, is the current headquarters of the Buddhist Association of China. Even during the Qing Dynasty, Guangji Temple's location made it a must-go for the emperor on his way out of the city, earning it considerable royal attention. Several generations of emperors visited the temple to burn incense, some even inscribed poems, erected stele tablets, or gifted plaques.
Guangji Temple houses numerous precious cultural relics, including Ming Dynasty statues of the Three Buddhas and the Eighteen Arhats, a white marble ordination platform built during the Kangxi reign, and a bronze tripod from the Qianlong reign. On the back wall of the Main Hall stands a massive finger painting, created in 1744 by the painter Fu Wen at the behest of Emperor Qianlong. Entitled "The Picture of the Victorious Fruit and Wonderful Sound," it was created with the finger of the painter Fu Wen at the behest of Emperor Qianlong. At five meters high and ten meters wide, it is the largest existing mural depicting the Buddha preaching in China and a treasured Buddhist work of art.
North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours
free
7:00-16:30
Guangji Temple dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Beijing. It was initially built to promote Buddhist teachings and has undergone several renovations throughout history. The temple holds cultural significance as a site for meditation and religious practices, offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese Buddhism.
Guangji Temple is located in the Xicheng District of Beijing. The best way to get there is by taking the Beijing Subway (Line 4, Xidan Station) and then walking for 10 minutes. Taxis and buses also serve the area, with routes that stop nearby.
Guangji Temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is best to visit in the morning, especially on weekdays, to avoid the crowds. Visiting early allows for a more peaceful experience, particularly for those who wish to meditate or enjoy the tranquility of the temple.
The entrance fee for Guangji Temple is typically around 10-20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple. There is no online booking system for tickets as it is a relatively small, local site.
No advance booking is necessary for Guangji Temple. You can buy tickets directly at the entrance when you arrive.
You will need approximately 1-1.5 hours to explore the temple fully. This includes time to walk around the temple grounds, appreciate the architecture, and visit the Buddhist statues and altars.
Don't miss the main prayer hall, where you will find intricate Buddhist statues and colorful altars. The surrounding courtyards, with their peaceful ambiance, are also worth exploring. The Buddhist artifacts and inscriptions in the temple are significant for those interested in Chinese history and religion.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some tour guides may also speak English, but it's advisable to arrange in advance if you need one. Audio guides are not typically offered, but knowledgeable staff may assist you with any questions about the history of the temple.
The temple’s outer courtyards and the bell tower offer great views of the surrounding area. Inside, the main prayer hall and the intricately carved wooden beams are ideal for photography. The overall tranquility of the temple makes it a peaceful spot for photos.
Start by walking through the outer courtyard and entrance. Visit the main prayer hall first, and then explore the smaller courtyards and side rooms. Take time to observe the statues and artifacts. Finally, walk around the temple's peaceful gardens, if time allows.
Guangji Temple does not typically offer night visits or light shows. However, it occasionally holds special Buddhist ceremonies, particularly during religious festivals or major holidays. It’s advisable to check the temple's schedule if you're interested in attending such events.
It is less crowded during weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon. Weekends and public holidays tend to see more visitors, so visiting in the early hours on a weekday will offer a quieter experience.
There are basic facilities at Guangji Temple, including public toilets and small shops selling incense, Buddhist trinkets, and prayer items. There are no restaurants inside the temple, but nearby areas offer food and beverage options.
Guangji Temple is accessible for elderly visitors and children, although there are some stairs and uneven paths that might pose difficulties for those with limited mobility. It’s advisable to check accessibility features directly with the temple if needed.
Cash is accepted for ticket purchases, but mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly used in the area for donations or purchases at temple shops. Credit cards are not widely accepted.
There are small restaurants and tea houses near the temple that serve traditional Beijing cuisine, such as noodles, dumplings, and tea. A few cafes are within walking distance if you're looking for a light snack or beverage.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries near the temple, especially at restaurants offering Chinese Buddhist vegetarian meals. Halal options are available in nearby areas with a significant Muslim community.
Nearby accommodations include the Beijing Xidan Hotel, Novotel Beijing Xinqiao, and several guesthouses in the Xicheng District, all within a short distance from Guangji Temple.
Nearby attractions include the Temple of Heaven, the Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square. These landmarks are all easily accessible by public transport and can be explored in a single day.
Yes, there are souvenir shops at the temple selling Buddhist items, such as incense, prayer beads, statues, and calligraphy works. Traditional Chinese handicrafts are also common in nearby stores.
After visiting Guangji Temple, you can take the Beijing Subway (Line 4) to nearby landmarks. Taxis are also available, and many visitors opt for walking to the Temple of Heaven or Tiananmen Square for a day of sightseeing.
