Dajue Temple (Temple of Enlightenment), a historical monument, is situated in Haidian District of Beijing. With a long history of nearly 950 years, it has many precious historical sites. Standing at the foot of mountains, the scenery here is perfectly charming with ancient trees, ceaseless water, and a tranquil and serene environment.
The temple itself is appealing to those who are interested in Buddhism. A set of Buddhist buildings is there, including a gate, a bell tower, a drum tower, the Hall of Heavenly King, the Grand Hall and other subsidiary halls. The building complex is magnificent, simple, and well-knitted. It is famous owing to its cultural and historical atmosphere. One famous landmark is a stone tablet. Set up in 1068 during the Liao Dynasty (916-1125), the stone tablet records the history of Beijing and the construction of the temple. Another is the well-preserved figures of Buddha in the halls. They are outstanding works of art, with beautiful and lively appearances. Besides, many inscriptions and tablets made by Ming and Qing emperors are kept here, serving as testimonies to the rise and fall of the temple. A stupa embraced by a pine tree and a cypress, was built in 1747, and is the summit of the temple.
The great sites of Dajue Temple also include a clear pool, and some ancient trees. The pool is an ideal place for enjoying the glorious full moon. About 160 ancient trees are planted here, including an over-900-year ginkgo tree, and a 300-year old magnolia. With a height of 25 meters (82 feet), the big ginkgo tree is named as 'the King of ginkgo trees'. The attractive magnolia begins to bloom in April and lasts for about one week. During those days, the temple is perfumed with the fragrance of the flower. With her sweet smell, pretty petals and graceful manner, she wins a good reputation for the temple. The ceaseless spring water is clear, sweet and ice-cold. Even in midsummer, the water chills one to the bone.
The best time to come here is round about April 5 every year. Many special activities take place, like the Magnolia Festival held in April, and enjoying the full moon on Mid-autumn Day (August 15 of Chinese lunar calendar). There are performances of Chinese zheng (a zither with 16-26 movable strings) on Saturdays and Sundays.
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Admission Fee:
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CNY 20
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April 1-October 31
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CNY 10
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November 1-March 31
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Opening Hours:
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08:00-17:00
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Bus Route:
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Take 903 from Yiheyuan (Summer Palace), and get off at Dajuesi (Dajue Temple), half-hourly interval
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Beijing Historical Sites:
