Wofo Temple

BeijingPeople's Republic of China 40° N · 116° E Updated Jun 2025

Nestled within the tranquil environs of the Beijing Botanical Garden, Wofo Temple, also known as the Temple of the Recumbent Buddha, stands as a remarkable…

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Wofo Temple

Introduction

Nestled within the scenic Beijing Botanical Garden at the foot of the Western Hills, Wofo Temple—also known as the Temple of the Recumbent Buddha—stands as a remarkable testament to China’s Buddhist heritage and architectural tradition. Renowned for its magnificent bronze recumbent Buddha statue, the temple is a living record of dynastic change, spiritual devotion, and harmony with nature. Visitors to Wofo Temple experience an extraordinary blend of history, art, and the serenity of lush gardens, with each season offering unique attractions, from wintersweet blossoms in late winter to vibrant foliage in autumn.

This comprehensive guide provides essential information on Wofo Temple’s opening hours, ticketing, historical highlights, architectural features, visitor tips, and nearby attractions. For further historical background and travel advice, refer to resources such as ChinaTripedia, Wikipedia, and TravelChinaGuide.

Beijing Wofo Temple ancient stone structure under clear sky
Ancient stone structure of Beijing Wofo Temple captured under a clear sky showcasing traditional Chinese architectural elements in a historic setting.
Beijing Wofo Temple entrance with traditional Chinese architectural features
Entrance view of Beijing Wofo Temple showcasing traditional Chinese temple architecture on a clear day in 2009
Scenic view of Beijing Botanical Garden with trees and mountains under a blue sky
A scenic view of Beijing Botanical Garden in Beijing, China, showcasing lush trees and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.
Scenic view of Beijing Botanical Garden with vibrant autumn foliage
Beautiful scenic view of Beijing Botanical Garden in Beijing, China during autumn showcasing colorful trees and serene landscape.
Traditional Chinese archway at Beijing Wofo Temple
Historical view of the "Juzu Jingyan" archway at Beijing Wofo Temple, showcasing traditional Chinese architectural design.
Guangmutian statue at Shifangpujue Temple in Beijing, China
Detailed view of the Guangmutian statue located in Shifangpujue Temple, Beijing, People's Republic of China
Jiang Menglin, Cai Yuanpei, Hu Shih and Li Dazhao group photo in Peking 1920
Historic black and white photograph of Jiang Menglin, Cai Yuanpei, Hu Shih and Li Dazhao together in Peking, taken in the year 1920.
Traditional pailou gate in old Peking late 19th century
Historic pailou gate in old Peking captured in a photograph from the late 19th century, showcasing traditional Chinese architectural style.
Sleeping Buddha statue photographed in Peking 1906
Black and white photograph of the Sleeping Buddha statue in Peking taken by Sanshichiro Yamamoto in 1906, showing historical cultural heritage before 1906.
Wo-foh-sze Monastery, also known as the Sleeping Buddha Monastery, nestled in Yuen Ming Yuen with traditional Chinese architecture and serene surroundings
Photograph of Wo-foh-sze Monastery, known as the Sleeping Buddha Monastery, located in Yuen Ming Yuen. The image shows traditional Chinese monastery buildings surrounded by nature, reflecting a peaceful and well-maintained historical religious site mentioned in 'Through China with a camera.'
Historic Reclining Buddha statue at the Wafu Temple nestled among lush green trees on a stone-paved slope near Beijing.
Image of the Reclining Buddha statue at Wafu Temple, a serene and historic site located 25 li from Beijing. The temple, surrounded by old trees including the ancient Parasol trees relocated from Tibet, dates back to the Tang dynasty. The statue, made of bronze from the Ming dynasty, stands as a sign
Buddhist temple entrance with traditional Chinese architectural details under a blue sky
Photograph of a Buddhist temple entrance showcasing traditional Chinese architecture, taken as part of the 'Peking the Beautiful' series.

History and Cultural Significance

Origins and Dynastic Evolution

Wofo Temple’s origins trace back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907), specifically the Zhen Guan era (627–649 CE), when it was first established as Doushuai Temple. Over subsequent centuries, the temple underwent repeated cycles of destruction and reconstruction during the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Its current layout is primarily a product of the Qing Dynasty (1734), though elements from earlier periods remain, making the temple an enduring symbol of resilience and dynastic continuity (chinatripedia.com; Wikipedia).

The temple was renamed several times, becoming Shou’an Temple before acquiring its present name, Wofo ("Recumbent Buddha"), after the installation of the iconic bronze Buddha statue during the Yuan Dynasty in 1321 (travelchinaguide.com).

The Recumbent Buddha: Symbolism and Artistry

At the heart of Wofo Temple lies its most celebrated treasure: a bronze recumbent Buddha, cast in 1321. Measuring approximately 5.3 meters long and weighing about 54 tons, the statue depicts Sakyamuni Buddha entering parinirvana—his final liberation from the cycle of life and death. The Buddha’s right hand supports his head while his left hand rests along his side, exuding calm and transcendence. Surrounding the statue are twelve clay disciple figures, capturing the solemnity of the Buddha’s final teachings (Wikipedia; travelchinaguide.com).

Architectural Layout and Features

Wofo Temple exemplifies classical Chinese Buddhist temple design, with its principal halls aligned along a north-south axis. Key structures include:

  • Ornate Memorial Arches (Paifang) Marking the entrance, inscribed with Buddhist aphorisms.
  • Merit Pool A tranquil pond near the entrance symbolizing purity.
  • Mountain Gate Hall The formal entry guarded by formidable statues.
  • Hall of Heavenly Kings Houses the Four Heavenly Kings, Maitreya Buddha, and Wei Tuo Bodhisattva.
  • Three Buddha Hall Features three gilded Buddha statues and eighteen Arhat figures.
  • Reclining Buddha Hall The centerpiece, containing the famed bronze statue.
  • Sutra Hall Storage place for Buddhist scriptures.

Flanking the central axis are eastern and western wings, historically serving as monastic quarters and spaces for imperial visits. The entire complex covers about 2.8 hectares and is surrounded by ancient cypress trees, pavilions, and gardens.

Botanical and Natural Setting

Wofo Temple is renowned for its integration with nature. Situated within the Beijing Botanical Garden, it is embraced by a diverse array of plantings, including ancient Saraca trees—sacred in Buddhist tradition—and over 100 wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox) shrubs near the animal release pond. These botanical elements contribute to the temple’s tranquil ambiance and have made it a seasonal destination for flower viewing (khabarasia.com; beijing.gov.cn).

Visitor Information

Location and Directions

Wofo Temple is located within the southern sector of the Beijing Botanical Garden, at the foot of Shouniu Mountain, about 20–30 kilometers from central Beijing. It is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus lines (e.g., 318, 333, 360, 904) stopping nearby, and parking facilities available for private vehicles (visitbeijing.com.cn).

Visiting Hours

  • General Hours 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (seasonal variations may apply)
  • Beijing Botanical Garden Typically open 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Last Entry 30 minutes before closing

Check official sources for up-to-date opening times, especially during holidays.

Ticket Prices

  • Wofo Temple Admission 5–15 RMB (varies by ticketing channel and discounts)
  • Botanical Garden Admission 5–10 RMB
  • Combined Ticket Required for temple entry; available at the main entrance
  • Discounts Available for students, seniors, and children with valid ID

Tickets can be purchased onsite or via official online platforms.

Accessibility and Facilities

  • Pathways Most temple and garden paths are paved and accessible; some traditional steps and slopes may be challenging.
  • Wheelchair Access Main areas are accessible; assistance available at entrance upon request.
  • Restrooms and Visitor Services Facilities are available within the Botanical Garden complex.

Travel Tips

  • Recommended Visit Duration 3–4 hours to explore temple grounds and gardens.
  • Best Seasons Late winter to early spring (wintersweet blossoms), autumn (foliage).
  • Dress Code Modest attire is recommended as this is an active religious site.
  • Photography Allowed outdoors; flash and tripods are prohibited inside temple halls.

Seasonal Highlights and Special Events

Wintersweet Blossom (Feb–Mar)

Wofo Temple is famed for the blooming of hundreds of wintersweet shrubs around the animal release pond and temple entrance. The golden-yellow blossoms and their subtle fragrance create a captivating winter scene (beijing.gov.cn).

Spring and Summer

The surrounding gardens burst into vibrant bloom with a rich variety of flowers and foliage, offering shaded walks and tranquil spaces for meditation.

Autumn

Nearby Fragrant Hills Park becomes a major attraction for its brilliant fall colors, while Wofo Temple offers a quieter setting to enjoy the seasonal palette (chinatour.net).

Special Events

  • Wintersweet Festival Celebrates the peak blossom season with cultural performances and exhibitions.
  • Buddhist Ceremonies Major Buddhist festivals and rituals held throughout the year.

Guided tours are recommended for deeper insights into the temple’s art and history.

Nearby Attractions

  • Beijing Botanical Garden Home to themed plant collections and scenic landscapes.
  • Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan) Famed for autumn foliage and hiking trails.
  • Summer Palace UNESCO World Heritage Site with imperial gardens.
  • Beijing Zoo and other historical sites Easily accessible for a full cultural day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Wofo Temple’s visiting hours?
A: Generally, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; check seasonal updates.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Combined ticket for the botanical garden and temple: 10–20 RMB.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through onsite or official tourism platforms.

Q: Is the temple wheelchair accessible?
A: Main areas are accessible; some traditional sections may be challenging.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Late winter to early spring (wintersweet blooms), spring/summer (gardens), autumn (foliage).