1. What to Know Before You Pray: Yonghe Temple’s Royal Background and Popularity

Yonghe Temple, known as one of the most important places in Beijing for blessings, was once the private residence of Emperor Yongzheng. During Emperor Qianlong’s reign, it was turned into a Tibetan Buddhist temple, giving it a special status. The temple is known for its strong spiritual atmosphere, which comes not only from its history but also from its layout. The central-axis Han-style design mixed with Tibetan golden rooftops is believed to create a powerful energy space.

• Highlights:

“Three Gates” Entrance Ritual: When passing through Zhaotai Gate, look at the incense burner on the white marble base. The smoke rising here all year round creates a perfect photo spot.

Stepping on the “Lucky Stone”: In front of the former Yinan Hall, there’s a blue stone slab that Emperor Yongzheng is said to have stepped on daily before becoming emperor. Stepping on it three times means “rising step by step.”

Blessed Items Tip: The temple shop offers a limited number of ash-glass bead bracelets daily (from ¥180). Green ones are for career luck, red for health. Avoid getting them wet.

2. Full Blessing Route: From Incense to Buddha Touch

To really bring good luck, follow this step-by-step route tested by many visitors:

Incense Etiquette:

Get free eco-friendly incense (9 sticks per person) at the entrance. After lighting, hold it in front of your chest and quietly say your name, birthday, and wish. Do not blow out the flame.

• Main Halls Tips:

Yonghe Gate Hall: Worship Maitreya Buddha here. Touch the ear of the bronze tripod for “clear hearing and sharp sight.”

Yongyou Hall: Focus on the Buddha of Infinite Life. Walk clockwise around the statue three times while silently wishing for long life and health.

Wanfu Pavilion: Look up at the 26-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha. Hold your hands in prayer position at your forehead and feel the moment of joy.

Prayer Wheel Tip: Spin the wheels outside the Tantric Hall clockwise. Touch only the lower part of the wheel, and avoid touching the scriptures directly.

3. Hidden Experiences: Unlock the “Royal-Level” Blessing Journey

• In addition to the usual route, here are some lesser-known tips for extra luck:

First Day / Fifteenth Day of Lunar Month: Arrive before 6 a.m. for a chance to attend the monks’ morning chant and receive a free “Fu” (blessing) card afterward.

Ginkgo Season Bonus: From late October to mid-November, the ginkgo trees in front of the Dharma Wheel Hall turn golden. Picking a full leaf and placing it in your prayer book means “golden protection.”

Vegetarian Meal for Energy: Near the exit, “Yonghe Temple Vegetarian Food” offers a ¥28 buffet. Try the “Lucky Noodles” shaped into the Chinese character for “luck” with shredded carrots.

4. Nearby Itinerary: Make the Most of Your Beijing Visit

For first-time visitors to Beijing, this is an efficient day plan:

• Morning:

Pray at Yonghe Temple

Take photos of red walls and old trees on Guozijian Street

Visit the Confucius Temple and touch the “Top Scholar” monument

• Afternoon:

Explore Wudaoying Hutong shops (recommended: Jing Zhaoyin Café for afternoon tea)

Feed pigeons at Ditan Park and enjoy the ginkgo avenue in autumn

Transport Tip:

Take Metro Line 5 and get off at Yonghegong Station, Exit C. Walk 5 minutes to the temple and avoid traffic jams.

Conclusion

From royal residence to spiritual center, Yonghe Temple has become a powerful destination for both cultural depth and spiritual energy. Whether you're into traditional culture or visiting Beijing for the first time, this guide helps you fully experience its charm—not just through rituals, but through a deep, personal connection to the city’s cultural heritage.