Do I need to be religious to join the tour?

Not at all! This tour is open to everyone, regardless of religious background. The focus is cultural and spiritual — you’ll learn about Buddhist beliefs, symbolism, and temple etiquette in a respectful, educational way.

Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?

Absolutely. This is a family-friendly tour, designed with a relaxed pace and engaging activities for all ages, including kids and older travelers.

How do I book and pay?

You can book by contacting us at info@chinaexplorertour.com. Payment can be made online via credit card or bank transfer.

Please wear modest, respectful clothing. Sleeveless tops, very short skirts or shorts, and low-cut clothing are discouraged, as you’ll be entering sacred spaces.

Is incense included? Will I be expected to participate?

Yes — incense is provided free. Participation in the offering ritual is completely optional, but most guests find it to be a peaceful and meaningful experience. Our guide will explain everything and support you step by step.

Is this a group or private tour?

We offer both small group and private options. Group sizes are capped at 10 guests to ensure a calm, personal experience. Private tours can be arranged upon request.

Private Beijing Spiritual Tour: Yonghe Temple Praying And Hutong Walk

No Fixed Departure Available!

✨ Why Join This Tour?

✔️ A rare chance to engage in a real Buddhist blessing ritual
✔️ Learn the cultural meanings behind sacred symbols and architecture
✔️ Escape the tourist traps and dive into Beijing’s spiritual and artistic core
✔️ Great photo moments + meaningful experiences to take home

Group Size
2-10
Language
English
Minimum Age
5
Maximum Age
70
Destinations
Beijing
Trip Type
All Trips, Classic Trips, Spiritual Retreat

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Looking for authentic Beijing things to do that go beyond the Great Wall and the Forbidden City?
This tour takes you into the spiritual heart of Beijing through a deep cultural visit to Yonghe Temple (Lama Temple) — a must-see for anyone interested in Chinese culture, Buddhism, or mindfulness.

Highlights

Visit Yonghe Temple, the most famous Tibetan Buddhist temple in Beijing
Learn how to offer incense and make wishes the traditional way
Discover the meanings of Buddhist statues, symbols, and prayer rituals
(Optional) Choose and bless a spiritual bracelet (Buddhist prayer beads)
Walk through the artistic alleys of Wudaoying Hutong, lined with boutique cafés and local shops
Connect with the cultural roots of Beijing in a peaceful, personal setting

Day 1 :

Meet at Yonghe Temple Gate – Intro to Buddhist etiquette and symbolism

Your experience begins just outside the entrance of Yonghe Temple — one of the most revered and photogenic places of interest in Beijing. Here, our English-speaking cultural guide will give a warm welcome and share essential background.

Highlight :

Temple tour: incense ritual, guided exploration of each sacred hall

Step inside the temple grounds and begin a clockwise walking route (per traditional Buddhist custom). Along the way, our guide will explain the symbolic meanings of key halls and statues.

Our guide will show you the proper way to offer incense and make your wishes — just like the locals do.

Maitreya Buddha at Yonghe Temple – 18m tall, carved from sandalwood, a sacred icon of Tibetan Buddhism.

Day 3 :

Spiritual bracelet experience (optional blessing ritual)

If you’re interested in a physical spiritual souvenir, our guide will take you to the Yonghe Temple official Spiritual Gift Shop (法物流通处), where you can:

Browse handcrafted Buddhist prayer beads (called "shou chuan" 手串)
Learn about different materials (sandalwood, jade, bodhi seeds) and their meanings
Hear how locals use them for meditation, energy balance, or protection

Optional: If you choose to purchase a bracelet, you may request a traditional blessing ritual (开光) at a small consecrated chamber inside the temple. Your bead will be purified and spiritually activated — a rare cultural moment you can carry with you.

Day 4 :

Walk past Guozijian (imperial Academy)- Quick cultural insight

Exit the temple and take a leisurely 10-minute walk through tree-lined streets. Our guide will point out the Imperial Academy (Guozijian) — once the highest educational institution in imperial China.

You’ll hear a short tale about how Confucian teachings shaped generations of scholars, and how today’s China still resonates with this scholarly legacy.

Day 5 :

Free time in Wudaoying Hutong - explore local snacks, design shops & relax

End the tour with a relaxing stroll through Wudaoying Hutong, a charming, lesser-known alleyway that blends old Beijing tradition with modern artistic life.