Overview
Tanzhe Temple is Beijing's oldest Buddhist temple, founded in the 3rd century, set deep in the Western Hills about 45 km from central Beijing. An old Beijing saying states: 'First came Tanzhe Temple, then came Beijing.'
Highlights
- Ancient Setting: The temple cascades up a forested mountainside surrounded by ancient cypress, ginkgo, and scholar trees, some over 1,000 years old.
- Emperor's Tree: A massive ginkgo tree said to have sprouted a new trunk each time a new emperor ascended the throne.
- Mountain Serenity: Far from the tourist circuit, the temple offers genuine tranquility among birdsong and incense smoke.
History
Founded during the Western Jin dynasty (265–316 AD), it predates Beijing's establishment as a capital by nearly a thousand years. Multiple emperors visited and expanded the complex through the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Visitor Tips
- Half-Day Trip: Allow a full half-day including transportation. Combine with the nearby Jietai Temple for a complete mountain temple experience.
- Autumn Visit: The ancient ginkgo trees turn brilliant gold in November, creating a spectacular scene.
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours.