Beijing - Dec 2007 - 雍和宫 (Tibetian Buddhist Lama Temple)

Another place I missed in my previous trips to Beijing is the Tibetian Lama temple, so decided to make time as it could be my last business trip to Beijing, of course hopefully not. Took a cab from the WTC, and arrived at the main entrance almost 45 minutes later with moderate Beijing traffic.

Until today, it is still the biggest lamasery in Beijing, standing since it was built in 1694 as the residence of Prince Yong (雍正) of Qing dynasty. Emperor Qianlong (乾隆) later converted this palace into a Lama temple in 1744.


About 100 metres from the main entrance looking at the 昭泰门


雍和门, Yonghe gate hall (made some adjustments to give a more temple look)


This is the original colour.


Some folks praying


Even children knows how to pray


The Lion-like creature guard by the Yonghe gates


The Esoteric Hall (密宗殿) on your right and YongHe Hall on the left.


Wishing / donation mini tower.


The hall on the right is called the 时轮殿.


Coming out of the Lama temple and saw this small public transport, never have the courage to try it out and also no idea what is it called. Took the metro back to WTC instead to avoid the peak hour traffic.