Lama Temple

Yonghegong

Yonghe Lama Temple also known as Harmony and Peace Palace, is considered as the largest and most perfectly preserved lamasery in present day China.

Built in 1694 during the Qing Dynasty, it was initially the residence of Emperor Yongzheng, when he was a prince. Then in 1744, the status was formally changed to a lamasery, and so it became the national centre for Tibetan Buddhism. It is now used for prayer and traditional festivals.

In the Hall of Boundless Happinesses, stands the statue of Buddha Maitreya . It was carved from one white sandalwood log from Nepal, and holds the guiness world record for the biggest wooden Buddha in the world.

Nearby is the Temple of Confusious in China. The temple in Beijing is the second-largest Temple to Confucius and was built in 1302. People come to pay their respects before important examinations.