Fayuan Temple, Buddhist temple in Xicheng District, China
Fayuan Temple is a Buddhist monastery in Beijing organized around multiple courtyards with various halls and religious structures arranged along a north-south axis. The complex includes a library of ancient Buddhist texts, stone sculptures, and religious objects spanning several historical periods.
The temple was established in the 7th century as a memorial to soldiers and was originally called by a different name. Over the centuries it underwent rebuilding and changes that shaped it into the major Buddhist institution it is today.
The temple serves as home to the Buddhist Academy of China and functions as an active place of worship and spiritual study. You can sense the ongoing religious practice through the presence of monks, prayer rituals, and devotional activities that continue throughout the day.
The temple is located in central-west Beijing and accessible by public transit, with limited morning hours for visits. Dress modestly and be respectful of the active religious space where monks and worshippers gather.
Inside the Pilu Hall stands a remarkable stone lotus sculpture with a thousand carved leaves, each bearing tiny Buddha images. The top of the sculpture features representations of five celestial Buddhas, making it a singular work of devotional art.
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