Yonghe Temple 2026 New Year Blessing Guide

Yonghe Temple stands as one of Beijing’s most revered temples and the nation’s highest-ranking Gelugpa Tibetan Buddhist monastery. For visitors seeking blessings at the start of the new year or wishing to experience Beijing’s religious culture, this is a truly special place.

However, visiting Yonghe Temple—especially during the New Year period—requires knowing some specific rules and efficient touring methods beforehand. This guide will explain everything you need to know about reservations, routes, incense-offering etiquette, and purchasing souvenirs in the simplest, most understandable way.

Yonghe Temple 2026 Opening Hours & Reservations

This is the most crucial step to avoid a wasted trip.

• Reservation & Ticket Purchase: Booking is mandatory. Purchase tickets via the official WeChat account “Yonghegong Tourist & Devotee Service” using real-name registration. Tickets are divided into morning and afternoon sessions. If tickets for the day are sold out, please book for another date.
• Regular Hours: Typically opens at 8:30 AM. Ticket sales stop at 4:30 PM, with the temple clearing out by 5:00 PM.

New Year Special Arrangements:

New Year’s Eve (February 16, 2026): Opens at 8:30 AM, ticket sales end at 12:00 PM, and closes at 1:00 PM.

Lunar New Year’s Day (February 17): Early opening at 7:00 AM, ticket sales end at 5:00 PM.

Second to Seventh Day of the New Year & Lantern Festival (February 18-23, March 3): Daily opening at 8:30 AM, last admission at 4:30 PM.

Transportation: Exit F (Southeast) from Yonghegong Station on Subway Line 5. Walk approximately 250 meters to arrive.

Efficient Tour Route for Yonghegong (No Backtracking)

This route allows you to visit the main halls in order, avoiding detours—especially useful during peak times.

Ticket checkpoint→(Optional) Purchase prayer beads at the Buddhist goods shop→Collect free incense at the incense distribution point→Enter through Zhaotai Gate→Yonghemen Hall (for smooth affairs and wishes)→Yonghe Palace (for wealth)→Yongyou Hall (to ward off evil and disasters)→(West of Yongyou Hall) Consecration Room→Dharma Wheel Hall (for career success)→Wanfu Pavilion (front hall for peace, rear hall for marriage/children)→Suicheng Hall (for auspiciousness)→Exit via the west side gate.

Important Notes and Etiquette at Yonghe Temple

Observing basic temple etiquette at Yonghe Temple demonstrates respect for the faith and ensures a more peaceful visit.

1. Offering Incense

• Obtaining Incense: Free incense is included with admission tickets. Collect it at the “Incense Distribution Area”—no additional purchase needed. One bundle per person is sufficient.
• Quantity: Offer three sticks of incense at each hall entrance to symbolize reverence for the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.
• Method: Light all incense sticks at once. If a flame appears, gently fan it out—never blow it out with your mouth. After offering incense, place the entire bundle into the incense burner. Do not walk around the courtyard or enter halls while holding lit incense.

2. Entering Halls for Worship

• Entering: Use the side doors when entering any hall; avoid stepping on the threshold.
• Sequence: First pay respects to the Buddha in the main hall, then proceed to visit other halls in order.
• Making Wishes: Wishes should be as specific as possible (silently recite your name, address, wish content, and how you will fulfill the vow). It is best to make only one wish at a time to show greater devotion. If your wish is fulfilled, remember to return the following year to fulfill your vow.

3. About “Kai Guang” (Blessing Ceremony)

Kai Guang is a ritual to bless sacred objects. The blessing room is located west of the Yongyou Hall and is free to enter. You may also bring your own jewelry for blessing. During the ceremony, monks ring bells and chant sutras. Simply kneel quietly and silently recite your blessings in your mind.

Purchasing Sacred Objects and Bracelets at Yonghe Temple

The “Sacred Objects Distribution Center” at Yonghe Temple offers various exquisite souvenirs, such as the renowned incense ash glass beads, bracelets, necklaces, car charms, and lucky bags. There are three locations:

• Outside the Entrance: West of the ticket gate. No admission ticket required. Ideal for visitors purchasing bracelets without entering the temple.
• Beside Zhaotai Gate: Located on the left after entering through the ticket gate, this is the largest and most comprehensive location.
• Beside Yongyou Hall: Adjacent to the consecration room, this smaller location offers the convenience of having items consecrated immediately after purchase.

Practical Tips for Visiting Yonghe Temple

• Go Early, Not Late: During the New Year period, crowds are massive. Arrive as soon as the gates open to significantly reduce waiting times. Blessings are also traditionally performed in the morning.
• Dress Appropriately: When visiting temples, wear neat, modest clothing and avoid overly revealing attire.
• Maintain Quiet: Speak softly in the halls to preserve the solemn, reverent atmosphere.
• About Offerings: Monks occasionally distribute fruit to visitors (oranges symbolizing “wishes fulfilled” or apples for “peace”), but this is entirely random and not guaranteed.

In summary, a little preparation before visiting Yonghe Temple will make your experience smoother and more fulfilling. Above all, approach with sincerity and respect. May this guide help ensure your 2026 visit to Yonghe Temple is successful and fulfilling, with all your wishes granted.