White Dagoba

White Dagoba Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Beijing’s Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: The White Dagoba’s Enduring Legacy

The White Dagoba, an iconic Tibetan-style stupa, stands as a testament to Beijing’s rich religious and architectural heritage. Whether rising above the Miaoying Temple in Xicheng District or crowning Jade Island in Beihai Park, the White Dagoba embodies centuries of cultural exchange, spiritual symbolism, and imperial ambition. Commissioned during the Yuan Dynasty by Kublai Khan and designed by the Nepalese architect Arniko, the structure fuses Han Chinese and Tibetan Buddhist traditions, reflecting the multicultural fabric that shaped imperial China (Wikipedia; Beijing Government).

This comprehensive guide explores the history, architecture, and practical information for visiting both the Miaoying Temple and Beihai Park’s White Dagoba, ensuring a rewarding experience for history enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and cultural explorers alike (beijingbuzzz.com; Deep China Travel).

White Dagoba and Miaoying Temple: History & Significance
Visiting Miaoying Temple: Hours, Tickets & Tips
White Dagoba at Beihai Park: Overview & Visitor Guide
Cultural Significance & Living Heritage
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips & FAQs
Summary & Recommendations
Sources and Further Reading

White Dagoba and Miaoying Temple: History & Significance

Yuan Dynasty Origins and Architectural Marvel

The White Dagoba at Miaoying Temple was erected in 1279 under Kublai Khan’s patronage, marking the integration of Tibetan Buddhism into the heart of China’s capital, then named Dadu. Designed by Arniko, the stupa blends elements from Han, Tibetan, and Nepalese traditions. Its towering 50.9-meter form features a triple-tiered base, inverted bowl body, and a spire crowned with bronze rings and bells—each element rich in Buddhist symbolism (Wikipedia; Kathmandu Post).

Restoration and Preservation

Following a fire in 1291 and subsequent Ming Dynasty renovations, the temple was renamed Miaoying Si in 1457. The White Dagoba has survived centuries of upheaval—including damage from the 1976 Tangshan earthquake—thanks to extensive preservation efforts. It was designated a national key cultural relic in 1961 and remains a living center for religious practice and cultural festivals (Chinadragontours; Beijing Government).

Visiting Miaoying Temple: Hours, Tickets & Tips

Location & Access

Address: 40 White Dagoba Lane, Xicheng District, Beijing
Nearest Metro: Jianguomen Station (Line 1 & 2), about 15 minutes’ walk

Visiting Hours

Open: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry: 4:30 PM)
Closed: Major Chinese public holidays and scheduled maintenance

Tickets

General Admission: 20 CNY (approx. USD 3)
Discounts: Students and seniors with valid ID
Purchase: Onsite or online via authorized platforms

Guided Tours & Events

English and Mandarin tours available; advance booking recommended
Hosts annual Buddhist festivals and cultural events

Accessibility & Amenities

Wheelchair-accessible paths and ramps
Onsite restrooms, café, and souvenir shop

Nearby Attractions

Beijing Ancient Observatory (1.5 km)
Yonghe Lama Temple (2 km)
Wangfujing Shopping Street (3 km)

Visitor Etiquette

Photography allowed in outdoor areas; restrictions in temple halls—always check for signage.

White Dagoba at Beihai Park: Overview & Visitor Guide

Setting & Architectural Features

The White Dagoba graces Qionghua (Jade) Island at the core of Beihai Park, Beijing’s imperial garden. Built in 1651 to commemorate the 5th Dalai Lama’s visit, this 35.9-meter stupa showcases Tibetan Buddhist architectural style, topped with 14 bronze rings and a “chatra” canopy symbolizing enlightenment and unity (China Odyssey Tours; People’s Daily).

Structure & Symbolism

Square base: Earth
Dome body: Water
Conical spire: Fire
Canopy: Air
Crowning jewel: Ether

The pristine white finish, bronze bells, and intricate ornamentation reinforce the dagoba’s spiritual significance and its role as a city landmark (Beijing Buzzz).

Park Hours & Tickets

Beihai Park Hours: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM daily
White Dagoba Scenic Area:
- Jan 1 – July 13: Tue–Sun, 9:00–17:30
- July 14 – Aug 31: Daily, 9:00–17:30
- Sep 1 – Dec 31: Tue–Sun, 9:00–17:30
Tickets:
- Park admission: ~10 CNY
- Additional fee for White Dagoba area; prices vary by season and age (Deep China Travel; Ruqin Travel)

Accessibility & Travel Tips

Access via Yong’an Bridge, with stone stairways to the summit—challenging for those with mobility impairments
Early morning visits recommended for tranquility and optimal lighting
Boat rentals offer unique views of the dagoba from the lake (GoShopBeijing)

Facilities

Restrooms, benches, snacks and cafés (e.g., Qingfeng on Qionghua Island)
Informational signage in multiple languages
No luggage storage; travel light

Cultural Significance & Living Heritage

Religious & Diplomatic Importance

The White Dagoba’s construction marked the Yuan Dynasty’s embrace of Tibetan Buddhism, reinforcing political alliances and religious tolerance. The structure’s design—a blend of Chinese, Mongolian, Tibetan, and Nepalese influences—embodies centuries of cultural synthesis (beijingbuzzz.com; deepchinatravel.com).

Rituals & Pilgrimage

The dagoba serves as a reliquary, pilgrimage destination, and site for Buddhist festivals. Rituals such as circumambulation and the resonance of bronze bells connect visitors to enduring spiritual traditions (Kathmandu Post).

Preservation & Modern Relevance

Protected as a key cultural relic, the White Dagoba continues to host worship, ceremonies, and cultural events, remaining a vibrant locus of spiritual and communal life in Beijing (beijingbuzzz.com).

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips & FAQs

Getting There

Subway: Line 6 to Beihai North Station, Exit B or D (6 minutes’ walk to North Gate)
Bus: Routes 5, 101, 103 to Xibanqiao Station
Taxi: 15–30 minutes from central Beijing, ¥30–¥50
Walking: Short strolls from Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, or Jingshan Park (East China Trip; Ruqin Travel)

Best Times to Visit

Spring (April–May) & Autumn (Sep–Oct): Mild weather, fewer crowds
Early mornings: Peaceful, best for photography and observing local culture
Avoid: Major public holidays—crowded, higher prices (China Highlights)

Visitor Experience Highlights

Scenic photography: Reflections on Beihai Lake, panoramic city views from the summit
Cultural immersion: Tai chi, traditional music, and seasonal festivals
No entry inside the dagoba itself; enjoy external views and surrounding gardens

Safety & Comfort

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and stairs
Bring sun protection and water
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites

FAQs

Q: What are the White Dagoba’s visiting hours?
A: See park/temple sections above; always check for holiday closures.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Beihai Park entry ~10 CNY; Miaoying Temple 20 CNY; additional fees for scenic areas.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Main park/temple paths are accessible; stairways to the dagoba summit are not.

Q: Can I enter the White Dagoba?
A: No, interior access is not permitted.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in English and Mandarin; book in advance for best availability.

Q: Are there other attractions nearby?
A: Yes—Forbidden City, Yonghe Lama Temple, and more.

Summary & Recommendations

The White Dagoba, whether at Miaoying Temple or Beihai Park, is a profound symbol of Beijing’s religious, historical, and architectural heritage. Careful preservation has ensured continued public access and authentic experience, while proximity to other major landmarks makes it an essential part of any Beijing itinerary. For the best experience, consult current visiting hours, purchase tickets in advance during peak seasons, and consider guided tours for deeper insight. Enhance your journey with tools like the Audiala app and stay connected with ongoing cultural events (beijingbuzzz.com; Deep China Travel).

Sources and Further Reading

For more travel tips and cultural insights, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media for the latest updates on Beijing’s heritage sites and events.