The ancient capital city of China hides a wealth of spiritual places which to this day provide tranquility, guidance and a spiritual escape from the busy daily life. Here are the most sacred temples of Beijing where Chinese history, philosophy and wisdom can be tracked to the antiquity.
The ancient capital city of China hides a wealth of spiritual places which to this day provide tranquility, guidance and a spiritual escape from the busy daily life. Here are the most sacred temples of Beijing where Chinese history, philosophy and wisdom can be tracked to the antiquity.
Regarded as one of the most important temples in China, Tanzhe Temple is a beautiful spiritual complex up in the mountains, only about 30km from Beijing. It is believed that the Tanzhe served as a model for building the Forbidden City. Erected during the Jin Dynasty, over 1600 years ago, the complex features some outstanding pagodas from the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, various pavilions, courtyards and prayer halls. It was named after the Dragon Pool (tan or longtan), which has dried up since, and the Wild Mulberry trees (zhe or zhesu) which have significantly reduced in number since the temple's establishment.
The ancient Fayuan Temple is not only an outstanding architectural example of Chinese construction but it also houses a wealth of art works from a variety of periods in history. Fayuan Temple was also used as a prison for Emperor Huizong and today it is the seat of the Buddhist Academy.
Built in 1302, the Confucius Temple in Beijing is the second largest one dedicated to the supreme teacher and philosopher whose doctrines lead public and private life in China for centuries. The temple is impressive with its architecture and stunning pictures of flying dragons, symbols of China's emperors. Pay attention to the 198 stone tablets in the front courtyard containing 51,624 names of advanced students (Jinshi) from the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties who were able to pass the highest educational exam. Then explore the 14 stone and steel pavilions with important historical information from the Ming and Qing dynasties. And finally, if you are not afraid, pass by the 700-year-old Chujian Bai (Touch Evil Cypress) which is believed to have the power to recognize good from bad people.
The most important Tibetan temple outside of Tibet is the Lama Temple in Beijing. It is also one of the most beautiful and well-preserved temples in the city, a seat of the Lamaism religion of Tibetan Buddhism. The temple is indeed exquisite, featuring decadent artwork, outstanding architecture and numerous halls and pavilions showcasing symbolic relics and unique statues. A must see are the Hall of the Kings of Heaven and the impressive 18m high Buddha statue carved out of a single sandalwood piece.
The Temple of Heaven is an entire complex, one of Beijing's most sacred areas, established in 1420. This green oasis offers an escape from the city noise and a gorgeous surrounding to indulge in spirituality. Definitely stop by the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a temple built entirely of wood and without the use of any nails. Among the other highlight are the Hall of the Vault of Heaven, Zhaoheng Gate, the Animal Killing Pavilion and the Echo Wall.
Just about 4 hours drive from Beijing is Datong, a historic city, which used to be the capital for 3 Chinese dynasties. Even thou it is located in the "coal capital" of the country, Datong has valuable historic treasures to display for its visitors.
Just about 4 hours drive from Beijing is Datong, a historic city, which used to be the capital for 3 Chinese dynasties. Even thou it is located in the "coal capital" of the country, Datong has valuable historic treasures to display for its visitors.
Just about 3 hours drive from Beijing, is Chengde. Known as the summer escape for generations of Qing emperors. The mountain city has important cultural and historic significance. It has been the place of many diplomatic relations meetings and important events from the public life in China.
Just about 3 hours drive from Beijing, is Chengde. Known as the summer escape for generations of Qing emperors. The mountain city has important cultural and historic significance. It has been the place of many diplomatic relations meetings and important events from the public life in China.
Here is the best way to explore the greatest highlights of Beijing in just 24 hours layover itinerary. Follow the line up below to get the essence of China's capital in just one full day of exploration and fun...
Here is the best way to explore the greatest highlights of Beijing in just 24 hours layover itinerary. Follow the line up below to get the essence of China's capital in just one full day of exploration and fun...
Shopaholics, get ready! Shopping in Beijing is incredible - you can find anything and everything - from the most exquisite and expensive goods to cheap and cool souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle! Bargaining is the name of the game and Chinese are really, really good at it. It is an entire shopping ritual until you set the price... May the games begin! Happy shopping!
Shopaholics, get ready! Shopping in Beijing is incredible - you can find anything and everything - from the most exquisite and expensive goods to cheap and cool souvenirs. Be prepared to haggle! Bargaining is the name of the game and Chinese are really, really good at it. It is an entire shopping ritual until you set the price... May the games begin! Happy shopping!
For hundreds of years Beijing has been the cultural, political and economic center of China. This cosmopolitan city takes its visitors on a fast track tour through history with its well preserved temples, traditional narrow hatong neighborhoods and the astonishing Forbidden City. Then quickly it flies to the metropolis Beijing is today. Its futuristic facades and skyscrapers of concrete and glass contrast with the colorful wooden houses and create an atmosphere of everlasting mix between tradition and modernism where dining, shopping and entertainment options are endless.
For hundreds of years Beijing has been the cultural, political and economic center of China. This cosmopolitan city takes its visitors on a fast track tour through history with its well preserved temples, traditional narrow hatong neighborhoods and the astonishing Forbidden City. Then quickly it flies to the metropolis Beijing is today. Its futuristic facades and skyscrapers of concrete and glass contrast with the colorful wooden houses and create an atmosphere of everlasting mix between tradition and modernism where dining, shopping and entertainment options are endless.
Every first time visitor to China has to experience the most famous, most significant and most historic places along the Golden Triangle: Beijing - Xian - Shanghai. That is the cradle of ancient history, modern society and diverse scenery. Yes, we know it is a tough choice how to experience such a vast country in such a short time... That is why, we suggest to start from the classics - those that will astonish you and leave you wanting more!
The 10 days trip itinerary below is ordered according to location, proximity and convenience of exploration: Beijing (5 days); Xian (2 days); Shanghai (3 days)
Every first time visitor to China has to experience the most famous, most significant and most historic places along the Golden Triangle: Beijing - Xian - Shanghai. That is the cradle of ancient history, modern society and diverse scenery. Yes, we know it is a tough choice how to experience such a vast country in such a short time... That is why, we suggest to start from the classics - those that will astonish you and leave you wanting more!
The 10 days trip itinerary below is ordered according to location, proximity and convenience of exploration: Beijing (5 days); Xian (2 days); Shanghai (3 days)