Beijing Fahai Temple Guide: Exploring Authentic Ming Dynasty Murals in 2026 (Transportation/Tickets/Summer Escape Routes)

Last Updated: May 2026

If you’re interested in ancient Chinese art and temple culture, Fahai Temple—a hidden gem in Beijing—is a must-visit. Free from the crowds of popular tourist spots, it houses masterpieces of the Ming Dynasty murals that rival those of Dunhuang. Hailed as “the finest of Ming Dynasty murals,” it’s an excellent choice for a weekend getaway in Beijing or a day trip to Shijingshan.

This updated 2026 guide will help you understand Fahai Temple’s “Five Masterpieces” and their historical significance, making it easy for international visitors to plan their visit.

Must-Read Before Your Visit | 3 Mandatory Requirements

1. You must check your belongings to view the original murals: Cell phones, cameras, and backpacks can all be stored for free. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the hall; violators will be asked to leave.

2. No reservations required; tickets sold on-site: Starting in February 2026, individual reservations will be discontinued. Tickets for the original murals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of 25 people per session.

3. Dress Code: The site is located on a hillside with numerous steps and stone pathways; you must wear comfortable, non-slip athletic shoes.

Key Information at a Glance

Item	Key Information
General Admission	20 yuan (temple tour only; does not include access to the original artworks)
Original Artwork Viewing Ticket	100 yuan (includes general admission; highly recommended)
Combined Ticket	130 yuan (original artworks + full access to the Mural Art Gallery)
Opening Hours	9:00–16:30 (last admission at 16:00), closed on Mondays
Original Artwork Viewing Times	9:30/10:30/11:30/12:30/13:30/14:30/15:30
Transportation	Exit A of Modekou Station on Metro Line 11, 15 –20-minute walk
Recommended duration	Half a day (Fahai Temple + Modekou neighborhood)

Introduction to Fahai Temple: Origin of the Name and History

Fahai Temple is located on the southern slopes of Cuiwei Mountain in Modekou, Shijingshan District, Beijing. It was first built in the fourth year of the Zhengtong reign (1439) of the Ming Dynasty, funded by the eunuch Li Tong and constructed by the Ministry of Works. Emperor Yingzong of the Ming Dynasty bestowed upon it the name “Fahai Chan Temple,” endowing it with imperial lineage.

⚠️ Special Note: This “Fahai” has no connection to the Legend of the White Snake; it signifies that the Dharma is as vast as the ocean.

The temple faces south and consists of four courtyards built on a raised platform. It is one of Beijing’s best-preserved official Ming Dynasty temples, featuring a unique architectural style that blends Han and Tibetan characteristics.

A Detailed Look at the “Five Masterpieces” of Fahai Temple

First Masterpiece: Ming Dynasty Murals (The Temple’s Treasure)

The murals inside the Great Buddha Hall were completed by 15 imperial court painters over a period of 4 years and 8 months. Comprising 9 panels and 77 figures, they have retained their brilliance for 570 years, with no errors or alterations, and their craftsmanship far surpasses that of other murals from the same period.

Water-Moon Guanyin, Authentic Ming Dynasty Murals of Fahai Temple

Water-Moon Guanyin: Standing 3 meters tall, she is draped in a white veil rendered with 48 gold threads, as thin as a cicada’s wing, representing the pinnacle of meticulous, richly colored painting.
Unparalleled 3D Effects:
- Powder-puffing and gilding: A technique combining the application of powder to form lines with gold leafing, creating a relief-like effect not found in the Dunhuang or Yongle Palace murals.
- Layered Shading and Blending: Multiple layers of shading and blending create a smooth, three-dimensional effect on the clothing and skin.
Artist Credits: The names of 15 artists are engraved on the Lengyan Sutra Stupa, a practice extremely rare in ancient times.

Cultural Trivia: The Water Moon Guanyin is depicted reclining in a relaxed posture, symbolizing compassion for all beings. This is a classic pose in Ming Dynasty Buddhist sculpture.

Second Masterpiece: The Mandala Ceiling

The Great Buddha Hall features three Ming Dynasty coffered ceilings, each depicting a mandala of the Buddha of the Great Sun, the Immovable Buddha, and the Buddha of Infinite Life. Symbolizing the cosmic realm of the Buddha, these intricate and exquisite works represent the pinnacle of ancient architectural ceiling art.

Pictures of Mandala Caisson Ceiling in Fahai Temple

The Third Wonder: The Millennium Whitebark Pines

The two millennium-old whitebark pines in front of the temple are known as the “Kings of Beijing’s Whitebark Pines.” The trees predate the temple itself, and their white trunks contrast beautifully with the vermilion halls, creating a signature scene at Fahai Temple.

Millennial White-bark Pine and Ancient Red-wall Buildings at Fahai Temple

The Fourth Wonder: The Bridge with Four Cypress Trees

In front of the mountain gate stands a small bridge flanked on both sides by four ancient cypress trees standing symmetrically, like sentinels guarding the temple. Commonly known as “Luo Guo’er Bridge, ”it is small yet steeped in history.

On-site Shots of Four Cypress Trees and Single-arch Bridge at Fahai Temple — On-site Shots of Four Cypress Trees and a Single-Arch Bridge at Fahai Temple

The Fifth Masterpiece: The Large Bronze Bell Inscribed with Sanskrit

Cast during the Ming Dynasty and entirely inscribed with Sanskrit sutras and mantras, this bell represents the pinnacle of bronze craftsmanship of its time. Its resonant toll echoes through six centuries.

Bronze Bell with Sanskrit Inscriptions of the Ming Dynasty, Fahai Temple

Practical Guide: Transportation, Tickets, and Visitor Rules

Tickets and Reservations (Updated for 2026)

Standard Ticket: 20 yuan; grants access to the temple grounds only.
Original Artwork Ticket: 100 yuan (includes standard ticket); grants access to the main hall to view the murals.
Combo Ticket: 130 yuan (Original Artwork + full access to the Mural Art Gallery).
Reservation Policy: No reservation required for individuals. Tickets are sold on-site on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of 25 people per session.
Closed: Closed on Mondays (except for national holidays).

Transportation (Summer Getaway Route)

Best option: Take Metro Line 11 to Modekou Station (Exit A), then walk west along Modekou Street for 15–20 minutes.
Bus: Get off at Shougang Residential Area Station → Walk to Modekou Street.
By Car: Modekou Street is a pedestrian street from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Park at the Modekou East Entrance Parking Lot and walk up the mountain for about 30 minutes.

Strict Procedures for Viewing the Original Artifacts

1. Purchase a 100-yuan ticket for the original artifacts.

2. All cell phones, cameras, and backpacks must be checked in.

3. Wear shoe covers and a mask.

4. Follow the guide using a cold-light flashlight; photography is strictly prohibited throughout the tour.

5. If you wear glasses, be sure to wear them to clearly see the details of the gold lines.

Best Time to Visit and Recommended Itinerary

Best times: 9:00–10:00 a.m. (least crowded); after 4:00 p.m. (soft sunset light, ideal for photography).
Weekend tip: Arrive as soon as the gates open at 9:00 a.m. to secure a spot for the early viewing of the original calligraphy.
Recommended Itinerary (2–3 hours):
- Modekou Station → Camel Bell Ancient Trail → Four Cypresses and One Arch Bridge → Mountain Gate → Hall of Heavenly Kings → Great Buddha Hall (original paintings + coffered ceiling) → White-barked Pine → Mural Art Museum

Nearby Activities: One-Day Tour of the Modekou Historical and Cultural District

Modekou, where Fahai Temple is located, is the core area of the Ancient Western Beijing Trail, featuring 26 contiguous historical sites, making it ideal for a day trip in Shijingshan:

Cheng’en Temple → Ancient Trail Site → Fahai Temple → Mural Art Museum → Glacial Remnants Exhibition Hall → Tomb of Tian Yi

Food Recommendations

Fried pastries from Fahai Temple, “Donkey Roll” sweets, and candied hawthorn on a stick
Traditional-style courtyard cafes—the perfect place to rest and beat the heat

Sample Budget for a Day Trip (Per Person)

Item	RMB	USD (approx.)
Admission to authentic artworks	100	14
Art museum (optional)	60	8.3
Round-trip subway fare	10–15	1.4–2.1
Lunch + snacks	30–50	4–7
Total	155–175	21–24

Important Reminders

There are many steps, so please wear non-slip sneakers.
The Hall of Original Artworks is dark and quiet; please keep an eye on your children and maintain order.
Photography is permitted in the Replica Gallery and the Art Museum, which can enhance your experience of the originals.
Download a translation app in advance; most staff members speak Chinese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take photos of the murals at Fahai Temple?

No. To protect these national treasures, photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the main hall, and all electronic devices must be checked in.

Do I need to make a reservation to visit Fahai Temple?

Individual visitors do not need to make a reservation. Individual reservations were discontinued in February 2026; tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis at the ticket office. Groups should inquire by phone.

What should I wear to Fahai Temple?

The site is located on a hillside with many steps and stone paths. Comfortable, non-slip sneakers are required; flip-flops and high heels are not recommended.

Can international visitors purchase tickets with a passport?

Yes, the on-site ticket window accepts passports for ticket purchases. Payment can be made in cash, via WeChat Pay, or Alipay.

Is Fahai Temple suitable for children?

We recommend that children be 10 years of age or older. Quiet and respectful behavior is required when viewing the original artifacts; the Mural Art Museum features a digital exhibition hall and a dome theater, which may be more engaging for children.

We recommend setting aside at least half a day to combine a visit to the authentic artifacts at Fahai Temple with a stroll down Modekou Old Street and some downtime at a café, for a quiet yet enriching off-the-beaten-path cultural tour of Beijing.

Official Phone: 010-88713968

Beijing Municipal Government Hotline (English): +86 10 12345

Ticket Platform: “Shijingshan Culture and Tourism” WeChat Official Account