Fayuan Temple
法源寺
The oldest temple in Beijing's urban area, first built in the Tang dynasty. It is famous for its spring lilacs and the lilac poetry gathering, and it has a quiet atmosphere.
Fayuan Temple was first built in 645, in the 19th year of the Zhenguan reign of the Tang dynasty. Originally named Minzhong Temple, it is the oldest surviving Buddhist temple in Beijing's urban districts. It is now home to the China Buddhist Academy and holds stone carvings, Buddha statues, and sutras from many dynasties. Its halls are Ming and Qing architecture. In spring, the courtyard's lilacs bloom, earning it the nickname “Sea of Fragrant Snow.” The lilac poetry gathering tradition continues today. Admission is about 5 yuan. The temple may close on Wednesdays, so check the notice before you go. It is on Fayuan Temple Front Street in Xicheng District. Walk here together with Niujie Mosque and the hutongs of Nancheng.
Opening hours
8:30 am–4:00 pm (follow temple announcements)
Nearby sights
- Niujie Mosque
- Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (Nantang)
- Liulichang Culture Street
- Lao She Teahouse
- National Centre for the Performing Arts
- Qianmen Street & Dashilar
- White Cloud Temple (Baiyun Guan)
- National Natural History Museum of China