Lama Temple (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Lama Temple?
What makes it 67% Kids-Friendly: Children under 1.2 m enter free and enjoy prayer wheels, but constant incense, silence rules, and no child-friendly toilets or play space make long stays tiring for those under 12.
Positives:
- Spacious Courtyards: Wide, flat areas let kids run briefly and explore safely.
- Hands-On Traditions: Prayer wheels and incense rituals engage children in local culture.
Challenges:
- Stone Steps: Many halls have steps; strollers may be hard to maneuver.
- Quiet Zones: Temple areas require low voices, which can be hard for younger kids.
What is Lama Temple?
- An ornate Tibetan Buddhist temple complex in Beijing established in 1694 during the Qing dynasty
- A series of courtyards and halls adorned with intricate wood carvings, monumental bronze statues, and towering incense burners
- A harmonious blend of Han Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles featuring brightly painted beams and serene temple layouts
What is so special about Lama Temple for with kids?
- Interactive prayer wheels offer hands-on fun for kids
- Free incense ritual teaches simple local traditions
- Giant Buddha statue in Wanfu Pavilion fascinates all ages
- Wide courtyards give safe space for younger children
- Short visit near subway makes it easy with kids
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for kids to explore halls, spin prayer wheels, and rest between activities.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Lama Temple
Spin Bronze Prayer Wheels:
Turn the wheels in the Sutra Lecture Hall to feel the soft chanting echoes.
Tip: Guide each child to spin clockwise and listen for the bells to join the rhythm.
Visit the Giant Maitreya Buddha:
Admire the 26 m sandalwood statue in the Wanfu Pavilion.
Tip: Stand on the second-floor balcony for a full view and explain the statue’s story to kids.
Join the Incense Ritual:
Pick up free incense sticks at the entrance and bow three times together.
Tip: Teach kids to hold incense respectfully and count bows for a simple blessing.
Make a Mantra Rubbing Scroll:
Press a wooden Green Tara mantra block onto paper for a keepsake.
Tip: Let each child choose their paper color and press lightly to reveal the design.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Lama Temple
- Early Arrival: Get there at opening to avoid crowds and tour at a calm pace.
- Comfortable Shoes: Have kids wear non-slip shoes for stepping on stone floors.
Reviews of Lama Temple
Loïc Michot
My first attempt? A total failure—blocked by a sea of people at the entrance. But on my second visit to Beijing, mission accomplished! I finally entered this ancient imperial palace with its yellow roofs, the vibrant heart of Tibetan Buddhism outside of Tibet. Inside, time seems to stop. The scent of incense, the whispers of mantras, the colossal sandalwood Buddha statue… A total immersion in the...
I Berezner
The Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple) in Beijing is one of the city’s most atmospheric and culturally rich sites, perfect for anyone wanting a break from the urban buzz and a window into traditional Tibetan Buddhism. This beautifully preserved temple complex combines elegant Chinese and Tibetan architectural styles, with vibrant colors, ornate roofs, and peaceful courtyards that invite slow exploration....
Ladyz Buatong
A truly beautiful and sacred place. Lama Temple has a very calming energy, and I felt peace and respect the moment I arrived. I ran over 7 km from my hotel in –3°C, just to come here—and it became one of my most memorable experiences in Beijing. Highly recommended for anyone seeking beauty, spirituality, and inner calm.
JR Suarez
Very beautiful Tibetan Buddhist temple. I went on a weekend and it was very busy. Inside you will find a 54-foot-high Buddha carved from a single piece of sandalwood. Really impressive! You can get free incense before the main hall to do some worshiping, generally burning it in groups of three.
Laurenti Arnault
The Lama Temple, known locally as Yonghe Gong (雍和宫), stands as one of Beijing's most magnificent and culturally significant Buddhist monasteries. Located in the northeastern part of the city, this active Tibetan Buddhist temple offers visitors a rare glimpse into both imperial Chinese history and living religious practice. The temple's origins are deeply intertwined with China's imperial past. Bui...
When is the best time to visit Lama Temple (Beijing, China)?
Visit in spring or autumn mornings to avoid summer heat and winter chill. Bring water in summer and layers in winter.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2 x 25 RMB) | CNY 50 |
| Child ticket (1 x 25 RMB) | CNY 25 |
| Green Tara scroll | CNY 20 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 95 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Lama Temple
Address: 12 Yong He Gong Da Jie, 国子监 Dong Cheng Qu, China, 100007
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About Lama Temple
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+86 10 8419 1919Explore Popular Things to Do
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