The
Lama Temple (Yonghegong)
Although tourist guides to Beijing list the Lama Temple near the bottom of the recommended things to do, Kelly and I found it more interesting than that. A working Buddhist temple, the Lama Temple was among the more impressive sights we saw. It was certainly the most peaceful. We hope that the pictures below can convey the sense of beauty and tranquility we felt there. They are largely self-explanatory.
The entrance to the temple, as seen from the inside.
This large display shows how the Lama Temple is laid out. Note the traditional sequence of courtyards and gates. For you sharp-eyed readers, this is not Kelly.
The male lion guarding the gate. The drum tower is in the rear.
One of the many incense pots in the temple.
Note the large number of worshipers present, even on a Wednesday.
The next picture shows a close-up of this Buddha.
The Buddha receives offerings of fruit (pears).
A shady place to sit and rest peacefully.
A monk spins the prayer wheel and meditates.
A close-up view of some of the roofs.
One lion, two turtles, and Kelly.
Close-up view of Kelly and the lion. They are wearing matching outfits.