Jietai Temple
戒台寺
A Liao-dynasty temple on Ma'an Mountain in Mentougou, home to the largest Buddhist ordination platform in China and the “Five Famous Pines” with striking forms.
Jietai Temple was first built in 622, in the 5th year of the Wude reign of the Tang dynasty. In the Liao dynasty, the eminent monk Fajun built an ordination platform here. The white marble ordination platform inside the Jietai Hall is the largest surviving Buddhist ordination platform in China, and it is known as “the First Platform under Heaven.” The temple's ancient pines, including the Reclining Dragon Pine, Free and Easy Pine, and Nine Dragons Pine, have striking shapes. Lilacs and peonies bloom here in spring. Admission is about 45 yuan. It is about 10 kilometers from Tanzhe Temple, and the two are often visited together in one day. Take Subway Line S1 to Shichang Station and then a taxi, or drive for about an hour.
Opening hours
08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Tanzhe Temple
- Shougang Park
- Badachu Park
- Marco Polo Bridge & Wanping Fortress
- Fragrant Hills Park
- China National Botanical Garden (North) & Wofo Temple
- Central Radio & TV Tower
- Summer Palace