TELLBY
English

Fayuan Temple

法源寺

6 story sections
History & cultureBY TELLBY

Contents

6 sections · tap a section for its opening lines
  1. 1Fayuan Temple

    Welcome to Fayuan Temple, a place where time seems to slow down. Located in the historic Xicheng District of Beijing, near the vibrant Niujie area, Fayuan is the oldest Buddhist temple in the city. …

    Listen in the app
  2. 2The Front Courtyard and Ceremonial Drums

    Upon entering the first courtyard of Fayuan Temple, you are greeted by the classic symmetry of Chinese monastic design. To your left and right are the Bell and Drum Towers. …

    Listen in the app
  3. 3Hall of the Heavenly Kings (Tianwang Dian)

    As we move into the second hall, the Tianwang Dian, we encounter the traditional protectors of the temple. In the center sits the Maitreya Buddha—the 'Laughing Buddha'—representing the future and the virtue of benevolence. …

    Listen in the app
  4. 4Mahavira Hall: The Spiritual Heart

    The Mahavira Hall, or the Great Hall of the Buddha, is the most important structure at Fayuan. It is here that the primary images of the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni, are enshrined. …

    Listen in the app
  5. 5The Lilac Gardens and Monks' Quarters

    Moving further back into the temple complex, we enter the more private areas—the gardens and the monks' residences. This is where Fayuan truly becomes a 'fragrant paradise.' The temple is famous for its lilacs (Liuxian), which…

    Listen in the app
  6. 6Closing

    As we walk back toward the main gate, let the peace of Fayuan Temple settle over you. This site has survived for over a millennium in one of the world's most rapidly changing cities. …

    Listen in the app

What is Fayuan Temple?

Fayuan Temple is a place with 6 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.

Key facts
TypeHeritage
Story sections6
Text languageEnglish
Coordinates39.8833, 116.3636
Last updated

Nearby places

within a 5-minute walk
Listen in the app