Tanzhe Temple Grounds Ticket
Tanzhe Temple is perched in the lush verdant fold of Western Hills, Beijing, more than a millennia older than Beijing itself, its roots going back to the Western Jin dynasty. Ancient cypresses sway high all around and touch the sky, while incense rises slowly from the golden domed halls witnessing devotion for the past seven hundred years. A vast sanctuary that stands between two misty mountains and a rustling stream, where the ruins of sultry sutras stand on perfect tablets, the bronze chapel bells still pierce the fog, and the announcements of long-departed emperors resound through courtyards laced with history.
Single-Day Entry Pass (Adult)
Operating Hours and Tour Recommendations
Operating Hours: 08:30 to 17:00
Estimated Time Required: 3-4 hours
Optimal Visiting Times: April–June and September–November
Smart Planning Tips:
1. Online ticket purchases are encouraged during peak hours such as public holidays, springtime blossom period and autumn ginkgo displays.
2. Carry your ID and the digital or print ticket for entry.
3. The grounds are an active Buddhist site and modest and respectful clothing is expected, loud noise and disruptive behavior is discouraged throughout the grounds.
4. Incense may be used for worship in specific places outlined; always use within guidelines posted and on instructions.
What Guests Are Saying
Tanzhe Temple is universally admired by almost all visitors and they highly rate its profound historical value, soothing mountain scenery, and its huge, centuries-old trees. Entering Mahavira Hall behind the 1,400-year-old ginkgo tree, the "Emperor Tree" given the name by the Emperor Qianlong, is always mentioned as one of the most impressive views around the complex. The golden canopy is considered by visitors in autumn as one of the best of that season anywhere in Beijing. One of the common suggestions from the reviewers would be to come on weekdays as the temple can be quite crowded during the ginkgo festival weekends or during the spring time when the blossoms.
Related Articles & Suggested Excursions
Planning a glitch-free journey? We recommend combining Tanzhe Temple with Jietai Temple and the complex network of hiking trails in the West Hills to create an immersive one-day culture and nature experience in the heart of Beijing's spiritual heartland.
FAQ
1. What options do I have to get to Tanzhe temple from central Beijing?
Get on the Subway Line 1 to Pingguoyuan station and then board the Bus No. 931 or a taxi to Tanzhe temple (about 40 km from the city center and takes about 1-1.5 hours). The hiring of private cars and guided day tours are also very common.
2. Can the camera be used in the temple?
Most grounds and garden areas are open to outdoor photography. Please do not photograph in the main worship rooms or directly in front of religious images – respect the religious environment, follow the notice and staff suggestions.
3. Is it permitted to eat and drink in the temple?
Light snacks or sealed bottles of drink are allowed but it is unsuitable to eat in the Halls or close to worship areas. There are a few small restaurants as well as tea houses by the main entrance.
4. Is Tanzhe Temple child-friendly?
Yes. The width and the condition of the walkways is good for young children and families. Much of which is natural charm and cultural heritage in lovely ancient trees, quiet ponds and traditional architecture all making for a challenging and inviting natural and cultural environment for all ages.
5. Is the temple very crowded in the fall season?
Large numbers of people come to watch the ginkgo trees in their annual viewing season (usually mid to late October). The golden leaves are best seen on a weekday in the early morning.
