 Fayuan Temple, Beijing
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Fayuan Temple is one of the oldest temples in Beijing. Located near the Cow Street Mosque, it was built in AD 696 by the Tang Taizong emperor to commemorate soldiers who died in the expedition against the northern invaders.
What we see today is not the original building, of course, as it has been replaced successively following repeated calamities and natural disasters. The present structure dates back to the Qing era.
As you enter it, you will see that it is a typical Buddhist temple. There is an incense burner near the gate, flanked by the customary drum and bell towers, on the east and west respectively.
The Hall of the Heavenly Kings (Tianwang Dian) is beyond the gate. In front of it is a pair of bronze lions. Among the statues here is that of the Laughing Buddha (Milefo).
At the main hall of Fayuan Temple is a gilded statue of Sakyamuni, the Historical Buddha. The statue is flanked by bodhisattvas and luohans - being that have been freed from the cycles of rebirth.
At the rear of Fayuan Temple is the scripture hall where sacred sutras are kept. In another hall is a huge 5-meter (16-feet) statue of Buddha.
Fayuan Temple also has a Buddhist college within its premises. As such, you will see a lot of monks here.
How to reach Fayuan Temple
Take the subway to Xuanwu Men subway station. The temple is open 8:30 am to 3:00 pm daily.
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