Yunju Temple

Introducing Yunju Temple

Yunju Temple is located in Fangshan District, southwest of Beijing, 70 kilometers from the city center. Yunju Temple, the Shijingshan Caves, and the Tang and Liao Dynasty pagoda complex constitute a treasure trove of Chinese Buddhist culture. As the temple with the largest collection of stone-carved Buddhist scriptures in the world, it has been selected as a "Beijing Tourism World's Best."

Yunju Temple was originally built in the late Sui Dynasty and early Tang Dynasty. After renovations throughout the dynasties, it now comprises five courtyards and six halls. Flanked by side halls, the temple also houses the emperor's palace and monks' quarters, and features two towers facing each other to the north and south. Facing east and surrounded by mountains and water, the temple boasts a magnificent architecture, earning it the reputation of being the "Great Temple of the North."

Yunju Temple not only houses three unique Buddhist wonders and a thousand -year-old pagoda, but also boasts remarkable Buddha relics. On November 27, 1981 , two red flesh relics were unearthed in Leiyin Cave. These are the only relics in the world preserved in a cave rather than enshrined in a pagoda. Along with the Buddha's tooth relic at Badachu in Beijing and the Buddha's finger relic at Famen Temple in Xi'an, Shaanxi, they are considered one of the "Three Treasures of China."

Today, Yunju Temple has become a renowned Buddhist temple and a renowned venue for religious activities, earning the reputation of "The Great Temple of the North." Yunju Temple, with its uniquely tranquil location and captivating scenery, is steeped in rich Buddhist culture and serves as a place for storing Buddhist scriptures and treasures, and for praying for blessings and welcoming good fortune.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

40 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Peak season : 8:30-17:00

Off-season : 8:30-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Yunju Temple

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

Yunju Temple dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is significant for housing a large collection of Buddhist scriptures and stone carvings. It is an important site for Buddhist studies and is often regarded as a center for the preservation of ancient religious texts and cultural heritage.

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

Yunju Temple is located in the Fangshan District of Beijing. You can get there by taxi, bus, or private car from central Beijing. The closest bus stations are accessible, but public transport options might be limited, so taxis or rental cars are recommended for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, making it a better time for a more peaceful visit.

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

The entrance fee to Yunju Temple is about 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism websites. It’s best to check for any seasonal pricing changes.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. You can book tickets online a few days ahead for convenience.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 2-3 hours to fully explore the temple complex, including the caves, pagodas, and the surrounding natural areas.

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

The must-see highlights include the ancient Buddhist scriptures, stone carvings, the pagodas, and the caves housing various relics. The temple's peaceful environment and cultural significance are also key attractions.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer basic explanations in English. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin. It is advisable to check with the temple in advance for an English-speaking guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the temple’s elevated spots overlooking the surrounding mountains and forests. The stone carvings and ancient structures also make for excellent photography opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with visiting the main halls and the large pagoda. Then, explore the caves containing Buddhist scriptures and carvings. Walk around the surrounding forested areas for a peaceful experience before ending at the temple courtyard for a view of the entire complex.

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

Night visits are not available, and there are no light shows at the temple. The temple is a daytime attraction focused on spirituality and historical exploration.

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

The temple can be crowded on weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit are weekdays, especially in the early morning hours to avoid large crowds.

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

Basic facilities like toilets and water fountains are available. There are also small rest areas where visitors can relax. Food and drink options are limited, so it’s best to bring your own snacks or travel to nearby areas for a meal.

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

While the main areas of the temple are accessible, some of the hiking trails and cave areas may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. Children will enjoy exploring the temple and surrounding areas, but parents should watch out for uneven paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, as well as cash. Cards are not typically accepted, so it’s best to have cash or use mobile payment apps for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are limited food options inside the temple. A few local eateries and snack shops can be found nearby, serving traditional Chinese dishes. For more dining options, you may need to travel to central Beijing.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some local eateries near the temple. However, vegan and halal food may be harder to find in the immediate area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in the Fangshan District. For a wider range of options, it’s recommended to stay in central Beijing and travel to the temple for a day trip.

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

Nearby attractions include the Longqing Gorge, the Beijing World Park, and the Summer Palace. These sites are within a reasonable distance and can be combined for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the temple where you can buy traditional Chinese religious items, such as Buddhist statues, incense, and prayer beads.

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

Taxi, private car, or bus are the best transportation options. For a more convenient option, you can return to central Beijing by taxi or public transportation.