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Lama Temple is one of the key historic sites under national protection. It lies in the southeast corner of north 2nd Ring Road. It is one of the largest lamaseries of Tibetan Buddhism that remain in Beijing. At first it was the residence of Emperor Yongzheng before he was crowned. In the years of Qianlong it was changed into a lamasery, and began to serve as the headquarters of the Qing government's administration of Tibetan Buddhism affairs.
The complex covers an area of about 66,440 square meters. It is well-known for its great Buddhist architecture, places for emperors to conduct religious activities, and its special importance for linking the upper class of the Mongolians and the Tibetans. The Yong He Gong complex, which runs to 400 meters from north to south, consists of three beautifully decorated archways, six halls. They are of great historical and artistic value. Since the founding of the People's Republic, the government has repeatedly funded renovations. Now this lamasery attracts tourists from all over the world with the mysterious, splendor, and profundity of the culture it embodies.
Since it was made a lamasery for the Gelu cult, Lama Temple has been observing its own festivals and holidays besides traditional Buddhist holidays. Besides routine rituals performed on the mornings of the 1st, 10th, 15th, and 30th of each lunar month, other major Buddhist ceremonies are performed each year.
