Beijing Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple) Ticket - Wish Ritual & Incense Offering

Start at the south archway
and enter the former prince's residence

Your visit begins at the paifang (archway) at the south end of the Lama Temple. The temple was built in 1694 as the residence of Prince Yong (later the Yongzheng Emperor of the Qing dynasty) and was converted into a lama temple in 1744. Thanks to this history, you can see palace architecture and Tibetan Buddhist culture in one place.

Explore the grand halls along the central axis

Walk north along the central axis to the Hall of Harmony and Peace, the Hall of Eternal Blessing and the Hall of the Wheel of Dharma. Each hall displays intricate statues, thangkas and relics that blend Han, Manchu, Mongolian and Tibetan artistic styles.

See the 26 m sandalwood Maitreya Buddha

The highlight of the visit is the Pavilion of Ten Thousand Happinesses at the far end. It houses a 26 m Maitreya Buddha carved from a single sandalwood tree, which is listed in the Guinness World Records.

Light incense and make a wish

The Lama Temple is well known as a place to make wishes. Following local custom, you can light incense at designated spots, pray quietly and make a wish. Experience up close a tradition that many people visit to pray for good fortune.

※ Incense may only be lit at the spots designated by the temple.