Lama Temple, known as Yonghe Temple or Yonghe Lamasery, is located at 北甲地路, 北京, 中国. It is one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world. Built in 1694 during the Qing Dynasty, it served as the residence of Prince Yong before he ascended to the throne as Emperor Yongzheng.
The temple complex covers an area of 66,400 square meters and includes five main halls and several courtyards. The architecture is a unique blend of Han Chinese and Tibetan styles. One of the most notable features is the 18-meter-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha carved from a single piece of white sandalwood in the Wanfu Pavilion.
The Hall of Harmony and Peace (Yonghegong), the first major hall, houses three bronze statues of the Buddhas of the Three Ages: the Present Buddha, the Past Buddha, and the Future Buddha. The Hall of Everlasting Protection (Yongyoudian) was originally the living quarters of Emperor Yongzheng, and it contains a statue of Bhaisajya-guru, the Medicine Buddha.
The temple also has a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts, including thangkas, which are Tibetan Buddhist paintings on cotton or silk. Additionally, there are intricately designed mandalas and ancient Tibetan scriptures. One hidden gem is the Arhat Hall, which contains 500 statues of arhats, enlightened Buddhist practitioners, each one unique in expression and posture.
Another point of interest is the "Five Hundred Arhats Hill," a wooden carving featuring 500 arhats in vivid detail. It is said to be the largest of its kind in the world. The temple also has a library that houses a vast collection of rare Buddhist texts and scriptures, some of which date back to the Ming Dynasty.
The Bell Tower and the Drum Tower are other significant structures within the temple. The Bell Tower houses a large bronze bell that weighs over three tons and is rung on special occasions. The Drum Tower, on the other hand, contains a giant drum that is used in various ceremonial practices.
The temple's layout adheres to traditional Chinese principles of feng shui, and its central axis aligns perfectly with the meridian line of old Beijing. This alignment was believed to bring harmony and balance to the temple and its surroundings.
Lama Temple is not only a place of worship but also a center for cultural and educational activities. It offers lectures on Tibetan Buddhism and hosts various religious ceremonies throughout the year. The temple remains an active place of worship, attracting both pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
Despite its historical and religious significance, the temple was nearly destroyed during the Cultural Revolution. However, it was spared due to the intervention of Premier Zhou Enlai, who recognized its cultural importance. Today, it stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of China.