Jietai Temple

Introducing Jietai Temple

Jietai Temple, renowned for its ordination platform, unique pines, and ancient caves , is located at the foot of Ma'an Mountain in Mentougou District, 35 kilometers from Beijing. It borders Jile Peak to the west, Liuguo Ridge to the south, Shilong Mountain to the north, and overlooks Beijing to the east. It was also the filming location for Ganlu Temple in the TV series "The Legend of Zhen Huan."

The ordination platforms of Jietai Temple, Kaiyuan Temple in Quanzhou, Fujian, and Zhaoqing Temple in Hangzhou, Zhejiang are collectively known as the " Three Major Ordination Platforms in the Country " . The ordination platform of Jietai Temple in Beijing is the largest of the three, so it is known as the " No. 1 Platform in the World " .

The temple, facing east from west, stands at an altitude of over 300 meters, covering an area of ​​4.4 hectares and a building area of ​​8,392 square meters. Its halls are arranged in a staggered pattern, following the mountain's contours. The entire temple combines the majestic grandeur of northern temples with the tranquil elegance of Jiangnan gardens, imbued with a rich religious and cultural heritage alongside breathtakingly beautiful natural scenery. It is not only a renowned Chinese Buddhist temple, but also a renowned tourist destination.

Jietai Temple boasts numerous ancient and renowned trees, including 88 nationally protected ones . The most celebrated of these are the ancient pines. These pines, either manually trimmed or naturally formed, have weathered the elements for thousands of years, forming unique shapes and possessing immense aesthetic value. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, these " Ten Strange Pines " were already renowned throughout the world.

Climate and best time to travel

The peonies in the Peony Courtyard bloom from April to May, creating an elegant and beautiful scene. During the Dragon Boat Festival, there are a series of activities, including eating rice dumplings, wearing sachets and blessing. On New Year's Day and the eve of the Lunar New Year, there are activities to congratulate the new year.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

45 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Summer 8:00-17:30

Winter 8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jietai Temple

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

Jietai Temple, built in the 3rd century during the Eastern Jin dynasty, is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in Beijing. It is known for its deep association with Chan Buddhism (Zen Buddhism) and was an important center for Buddhist scholars and practitioners. The temple houses many ancient Buddhist relics and scriptures.

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

Jietai Temple is located in the western part of Beijing, near the Western Hills. It can be reached by taking the subway to the Wenquan Road Station (Line 1), then transferring to a bus or taxi to reach the temple entrance. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours from central Beijing.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the early morning or late afternoon when the temple is less crowded, and the light is ideal for photography. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends.

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

The entrance fee is around ¥20. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance. It is also possible to purchase tickets online during peak seasons, but it is not mandatory.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visitors, but it is recommended during public holidays or peak seasons. You can book tickets online up to a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Jietai Temple thoroughly, including walking through the gardens, visiting the main temple, and viewing the Buddhist relics, will take around 2-3 hours. If you plan to hike in the surrounding area, allow more time for the visit.

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

The must-see highlights include the main temple hall, the "Stone Sutra" carvings, and the peaceful gardens. The surrounding natural beauty of the Western Hills also offers scenic views.

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

Guided tours are available, though primarily in Chinese. English-speaking guides are not always available, so it's a good idea to hire a private guide if needed. Audio guides in English may also be available during peak tourist seasons.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the main temple courtyard, the "Stone Sutra" wall, and the surrounding mountain landscapes. The temple’s gardens and courtyards also offer beautiful spots for tranquil photos, especially during spring and autumn.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main temple hall to appreciate the architecture and Buddhist relics. Then explore the surrounding gardens, followed by a hike up the nearby hills for panoramic views. The "Stone Sutra" is a key highlight and should not be missed.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at Jietai Temple. The temple is primarily a daytime destination, offering a serene atmosphere for reflection and exploration during daylight hours.

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

Jietai Temple can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the spring and autumn when the weather is most pleasant. The least crowded times are early in the morning on weekdays, particularly during the off-season (winter and late autumn).

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

The temple has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no large food outlets inside, but there are small local vendors selling snacks and water near the entrance. It's advisable to bring your own food and water if you plan to hike nearby.

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

The temple grounds are relatively accessible for elderly and children, especially the main temple hall and surrounding gardens. However, the surrounding hiking trails may be difficult for visitors with mobility challenges. Ensure to check the route in advance if you plan to explore further into the hills.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the temple for entrance fees and purchases. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s recommended to have cash or use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes inside the temple grounds, but several local eateries are located near the entrance and in the surrounding area. These offer traditional Chinese dishes, including vegetarian options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at the local eateries near the temple. However, halal food options are limited in the immediate area. It's best to check in advance if you have specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and small hotels in the vicinity of Jietai Temple. For more luxury options, you may consider staying in central Beijing and traveling to the temple by taxi or public transport.

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

• The Western Hills are nearby, offering hiking trails and scenic views.
• The Summer Palace, a famous imperial garden and UNESCO World Heritage site, is about 1.5 hours away and can be combined with a trip to Jietai Temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the temple entrance selling Buddhist statues, prayer beads, and incense. Local crafts and religious items, such as small Buddha figurines, are common souvenirs.

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

After visiting Jietai Temple, taxis and buses are the best options for continuing your journey to other attractions. You can also use the subway to return to central Beijing, but be prepared for a transfer from the nearby bus or taxi stations.