Wanshou Temple is known in Chinese as the “Longevity Temple”. It was built in 1577 during the Ming dynasty. It a Buddhist temple and it was said to have stored many Chinese Buddhist scriptures. It was often used as a place of celebration for the imperial families of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The Wanshou Temple is one of the most important imperial temples in Beijing and is real must see destination. The temple is currently home to Beijing Art Museum. The museum has a vast collection of items, over 70,000, including; carved lacquer ware, porcelains, wood carving, enamels, ivory carving, and much more.

When I visited the temple it was a beautiful autumn’s day and the sky was blue.  Arriving at Temple Gate you will notice a picture depicting one hundred bats flying between the blue sky and the clouds, this is said to imply that the people who visit will have good luck.

When you enter through the gate you will see the Hall of Deva Kings. Beyond the hall you will come to the Mahavira Hall where you will see the worshipping of the founder of Buddhism. North of the hall be sure to see the Wanshou Tower, which is a place for worship.