Tianning Temple

The oldest surviving above-ground building in Beijing is the ancient Liao Dynasty pagoda at Tianning Temple, which has a history of over 900 years and has always remained low-key and hidden within the temple's enduring history. The architectural style of the Tianning Temple Pagoda embodies the Liao Dynasty's style of building with its dense eaves and brick towers. The entire tower is sleek and majestic, making it a must-see ancient architectural marvel in Beijing. Wind chimes hang under the corners of each eave on every floor of the tower. It is said that during the Liao Dynasty, the tower had a total of 3,400 wind chimes hanging from it. When the wind blows, the clear sound of the chimes can be heard. Although there are not many left today, one can still vaguely sense the grandeur of the tower's melodious past. Despite the twists and turns of history, tourists visiting the tower are always fascinated by its extraordinary history.

Address: No.3 Tianning Temple Front Street, Xicheng District

Zhenjue Temple

Built on the site of the Ming Dynasty's Zhenjue Temple, the annual must-visit stone carving art museum was completed during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty but was destroyed by a fire in the late Qing Dynasty, leaving only a tower called the Zhenjue Temple Vajrasana Tower with a history of 600 years. The remaining traces still linger, earning it the title of "China's most exquisite Vajrasana Tower." The rarely seen Southeast Asian-style architecture is accompanied by 600-year-old ancient ginkgo trees, creating a gentle and serene landscape. In the autumn, when the leaves turn yellow and the wind is cool, it becomes one of the most popular autumn viewing spots in Beijing.

Address: No.24 Wutasi Village, Haidian District

Juesheng Temple

Dazhong Temple Ancient Bell Museum, located in Haidian and formerly known as Juesheng Temple, houses over 400 ancient Chinese and foreign bells, including the world's largest and heaviest bell. The ancient bell tower and gallery, which are steeped in ancient charm, are also perfect for rest and photography. In the spring, the courtyard is adorned with a variety of ancient trees such as magnolias, mountain peaches, and pear blossoms, making it a perfect place to appreciate the beauty of spring flowers.

Address: No.31 North 3rd Ring West Road, Haidian District.

Translator: ZHAO Huinan

Reviewer: LIU Yu