Wanshou Temple, Buddhist temple in Zizhuyuan Subdistrict, China
Wanshou Temple is a Buddhist sanctuary in Beijing's Haidian District spanning over 31,800 square meters (3.4 million square feet). It encompasses multiple building sections, including the Hall of Deva Kings and the Mahavira Hall for religious gatherings.
The complex was built in 1577 during the Ming Dynasty and served initially as a storage facility for Buddhist texts. Later it became a celebration site used by Ming and Qing imperial families.
The name refers to longevity and well-being, concepts deeply rooted in Chinese tradition. The decorated halls and chambers display traditional Buddhist artistic forms and design principles that remain visible in how the spaces are used today.
The site is located at Number 121 Wanshousi Road and reopened in September 2022 after five years of restoration work. Visitors should plan ahead since regular maintenance and religious events may affect access times.
A decorative panel at the entrance displays one hundred bats flying between sky and clouds, a symbol of good fortune in Chinese culture. This artful detail offers a symbolic welcome to all visitors.
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