Wofo Temple is situated at about 20 kilometers from Beijing, also named as the Temple of Recumbent Buddha and it is close to the Temple of Azure Clouds at the north end of the Xishan Western Hill and is near the Beijing Botanical Garden. It is one of the famous ancient temples in China and is a popular tourist destination.

The temple was first built during the Zhenguan period (627-249) of the Tang Dynasty, when it was also known as the Temple of Peaceful Longevity. In later periods it fell into ruin and was rebuilt and renamed several times. One of the last major renovations was completed in 1724.

The temple compound is built on an enormous scale. Covered galleries and auxiliary halls to create a completely enclosed series of courtyards link four large halls aligned along the central axis. The reclining Buddha lies inside the Hall and it is known as the statue of Sakyamuni. It is five meters long and weighs about 54 tons. It was built in 1321A.D which was during the Yuan Dynasty. The left hand of the statue touches his leg and his right hand is supporting his head. This was the pose of Sakyamuni when he had achieved nirvana. This bronze recumbent Buddha is the biggest bronze recumbent Buddha in present day China. Around this Buddha are twelve other figures of Buddhas. The recumbent Buddha is perfectly kept and reflects the high iron-melting techniques in the Yuan Dynasty.

Sacrifices have been offered to three Buddhas inside the Three Buddhas Hall: Burning Lamp Buddha, Sakyamuni and Maitreya. On both sides of the three Buddhas are 18 color-clay-made Arhats. Inside the Four Heavenly King's Hall, a sitting statue of Maitreya is offering sacrifice in the middle area. In front of the Three Buddhas Hall is an ancient tree planted, which was said to be transplanted from India and symbolizes how Sakyamuni got nirvana. To the west of the Temple, there is a peony garden of an area of more than ten thousand square meters. More than 2000 peonies are planted here. Also, there is a bamboo garden outside the Temple.

The autumn months between September and November have the best weather and fewer tourists. Summer (June to August) is considered peak season, when hotels typically raise their rates and the Great Wall nearly collapses under the weight of marching tourists. Spring is less pleasant not many tourists but lots of wind and dust. In winter, you'll have Beijing to yourself and many hotels offer substantial discounts, just remember it's an ice box outside.

Ticket Fee:CNY 5
Opening Hours:08:10 ~ 16:30