Step into Nianhua Temple for a rare moment of tranquility in bustling Beijing. Tucked away in a hutong alley, this ancient temple dazzles with its exquisite courtyard design and delicate Buddhist artworks, every detail whispering Zen philosophy. Cherry blossoms in spring, golden ginkgos in fall - each season paints a unique masterpiece. Pro tip: Visit at dawn when mist blankets the courtyard, and don't forget to touch the 300-year-old sacred tree for good luck!

This hotel boasts a prime location right next to the National Library, just 1 minute walk to the subway, with easy access to Beijing Zoo, Forbidden City and other attractions! Designed by an international team, it features arty and trendy aesthetics with retro yet smart rooms, signature scents and imported toiletries for ultimate comfort. Enjoy 24-hour front desk, fitness center, valet parking and more. Perfect for both business and leisure. What's most touching is their service philosophy: "We care not just how high you fly, but how tired you are"—truly heartwarming!
Everything you need to know about Nianhua Temple
Consider staying at Holiday Inn Express Beijing Yonghe Temple, just 1.5 km from Nianhua Temple, offering convenient access to the site and nearby attractions like Yonghe Temple and Guozijian. The hotel blends modern amenities with traditional Chinese design, featuring quiet rooms with serene views of courtyard gardens. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast and a 24-hour fitness center.
For a more immersive cultural experience, try Yinju Beijing Hutong Homestay, nestled within a restored courtyard residence. This boutique retreat offers tranquil surroundings, authentic local hospitality, and daily guided meditation sessions—perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, meditative stay rooted in Beijing’s spiritual heritage.
Walk about 10 minutes from Nianhua Temple to Tingyu Xuan Tea House, a hidden gem tucked inside a historic hutong. Known for its authentic gongfu tea ceremonies, the tea house features Ming-Qing architectural style and hosts seasonal themed tea events—like plum blossom gatherings in spring or chrysanthemum tastings in autumn.
Alternatively, take Subway Line 5 to "Hepingli Beijie Station," then transfer to bus or walk 15 minutes to Dayuecheng Food Plaza, home to iconic Beijing eateries such as a branch of Quanjude Peking Duck and modern fusion restaurant Jingwei Shiguang, perfect for sampling regional flavors. Visit the tea house after morning temple visits to savor a mindful afternoon of Zen and tea harmony.
Near Nianhua Temple, visitors can join weekly Buddhist chanting sessions every Saturday morning, led by senior monks and open to all, offering insight into basic mantras and rituals. Another highlight is the hutong calligraphy workshop at "Moxiang Xiaoyuan," where non-material cultural heritage masters teach participants to create ink wash landscapes or Zen-inspired characters—a keepsake of your visit.
During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the temple hosts the annual Nianhua Festival, featuring Zen tea ceremonies, ikebana flower displays, and lantern blessing rituals. Attendees can also craft handmade paper lotus lanterns, symbolizing inner purification. These immersive activities emphasize spiritual cultivation and traditional art preservation, providing a profound window into Beijing’s Chan Buddhist heritage.
From Nianhua Temple, take Subway Line 5 to "Hepingli Beijie Station" and transfer to Line 1 for Tiananmen Square (approx. 15 minutes), then walk to Wangfujing District or Forbidden City entrance. To reach Summer Palace, transfer at "Dongsi Station" to Line 13, then take a bus or taxi from "Xiyuan Station" (about 20 minutes).
Alternatively, purchase a Beijing Metro Pass for unlimited rides on subway and selected buses—ideal for efficient exploration. Many travel platforms also offer private day tours with driver-guide services, allowing customizable itineraries such as combining Nianhua Temple, Yonghe Temple, and Guozijian into a seamless Beijing cultural route—perfect for personalized, high-quality sightseeing.
Yes, Hepingli Park, just an 8-minute walk from Nianhua Temple, is ideal for families. The park features a children’s playground, artificial lake, shaded walking paths, and hosts weekly Family Zen Fun Days on Saturdays—offering activities like coloring paper umbrellas, mini tea ceremony workshops, and storytelling sessions that introduce kids to traditional culture through play.
The park also has outdoor teahouses where parents can relax with a drink while watching their children enjoy the scenery. Free rental services for strollers and umbrellas are available, along with clean restrooms and drinking fountains. With its peaceful, safe environment, the park perfectly embodies the harmony between urban life and tranquil, nature-infused Zen living.
Founded during the Ming Dynasty as a royal temple, Nianhua Temple was later transformed into a Chan Buddhist monastery in the Qing Dynasty. Its existing structures showcase classic Ming-Qing hip-roof trusses and painted dougong brackets, with dragon-and-beast glazed tiles adorning the ridges—reflecting imperial grandeur.
The main hall, Daxiong Bao Dian, houses a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, flanked by the renowned Five Hundred Arhats Murals painted by a Qing Dynasty artist, depicting intricate expressions and robes. The most distinctive feature is the Nianhua Hall, named after the Buddha’s 'floral smile' parable. It contains a small meditation chamber hosting daily morning bell and evening drum ceremonies, plus regular Heart Sutra copying sessions attended by pilgrims and scholars.
Though modest in size, the temple preserves deep Buddhist artistry and philosophical wisdom, making it one of Beijing’s rare functioning Chan temples with intact religious practices.
See what other travelers say about Nianhua Temple

This stay was absolutely perfect—every single detail exceeded my expectations. From the warm and welcoming greeting at check-in to the attentive staff who anticipated needs without being intrusive, the entire experience felt personal and thoughtful. The room was immaculate, spotlessly clean, and well-maintained, with all amenities in excellent condition. I especially appreciated the variety and quality of the breakfast spread—fresh, delicious, and thoughtfully curated. The dining team went above and beyond with their friendly and efficient service. Whether traveling for business or leisure, this hotel delivers exceptional comfort, convenience, and value. I’d highly recommend it—and I’ll definitely be back.

I can't say enough good things about this hotel! The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful—always smiling and ready to assist with any request. Location-wise, it's perfect: just a short walk from Dongzhimen subway station and super close to Sanlitun for shopping and dining. I found the place easy to locate, and getting around to major attractions was a breeze. The room was spotless, with clean linens, a comfortable bed, and a well-maintained bathroom. Everything felt fresh and well-cared for. For the price, the value is outstanding. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I visit Beijing—and I’ve already told friends about it.

As a representative office for my hometown in Beijing, I felt it was important to support this place. Honestly, while the property isn’t brand new, the facilities are well-maintained and surprisingly impressive compared to many standard five-star hotels in Beijing. From the attention to detail in room amenities to the thoughtful service from staff, everything felt polished and professional. The rooms were quiet, clean, and incredibly comfortable—perfect for both business travelers and tourists looking for a relaxing stay. Located just steps from the subway, getting around the city is super easy. It’s rare to find such a high level of comfort and value in this price range. If you're visiting Beijing, don’t overlook Jiangsu Plaza—it truly delivers beyond expectations.

Staying at JI Hotel (Beijing Sanlitun Gongti Ximen) was an absolute delight. The service was exceptional—truly attentive and thoughtful. One evening, I needed to reheat some food, and instead of just giving me directions, the front desk staff actually accompanied me to the restaurant’s microwave area, even staying with me until it was done. That kind of personal touch made all the difference. Despite being a four-year-old property, the hotel feels fresh and well-maintained throughout. Cleanliness is top-notch—every time I returned from exploring the city, I could see housekeeping staff diligently cleaning, which gave me peace of mind. Located near Exit C of Dong Si Shitiao Metro Station, it's easy to access public transit, but I found biking around the area much more convenient for short trips. Being close to the Second Ring Road also means getting to major attractions is super quick and hassle-free. And the breakfast? Fantastic—fresh, varied, and delicious. This place delivers on every front: comfort, convenience, and value. Definitely my go-to choice for future visits to Beijing.

Staying at Tibet Hotel during New Year's Day was an absolute delight! The lobby was beautifully decorated with festive vibes, instantly setting a joyful tone upon arrival. The front desk staff were incredibly polite and professional—check-in was smooth and welcoming, and they even handed out small gifts and hosted a fun raffle, which added a special touch to the celebration. Room service was prompt and quiet, making cleaning feel seamless without any disturbance. Location-wise, it’s super convenient—just a short walk to Huatang, perfect for shopping or dining. What truly stood out was the nearby Tibetan Cultural Museum; I took the time to visit, and it was such a meaningful addition to my trip, offering real insight into rich traditions and heritage. This hotel blends comfort, culture, and hospitality perfectly. For anyone looking for a memorable stay in Beijing—especially around holidays—this is a top choice. Highly recommend!

The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from major attractions, and public transportation options like buses and the subway are super convenient. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with a clean, calming atmosphere that made it easy to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Breakfast was a highlight—abundant variety and delicious flavors, especially the homemade bread and warm porridge. The lobby and common areas have a beautifully traditional design with a classic charm that really stands out. Best of all, the staff greeted guests warmly from the moment you step in—friendly, polite, and attentive without being intrusive. It truly feels like coming home. I also loved how close we were to Jingshan Park; just a 10-minute walk, and the view of the Forbidden City from the top is absolutely breathtaking. Overall, this was an exceptional stay. I’d definitely book again next time I visit Beijing.

This hotel completely exceeded my expectations! Located right in the heart of Nanluoguxiang, it’s surprisingly peaceful despite being surrounded by all the hustle and bustle. I stayed in the courtyard king room, and the moment I stepped in, I was captivated by the unique design. Lying in bed, I could see the open sky through the adjustable skylight — so serene and inspiring. The rooftop terrace is a real highlight, offering fantastic views and complete privacy. Even in winter, the room stayed cozy thanks to the underfloor heating — no chilly floors at all. The staff were incredibly thoughtful too; they helped carry our luggage upstairs without hesitation. And if you’re ever hungry, the ground-floor dining area serves up warm, comforting meals anytime — I had a steaming bowl of noodles that hit the spot. From the ambiance to the service, everything felt personal and authentic. A truly memorable stay, and I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at Beijing Asia Hotel was one of the best decisions I made for my trip to Beijing! The location is perfect—just steps away from subway stations and major shopping areas, making it super easy to explore the city. The room was immaculate, fresh, and free of any odd smells. Everything was well-maintained, from the bedding to the bathroom fixtures—comfortable and modern. The staff were attentive, professional, and always ready to help. Special shoutout to Manager Wang Pei at the front desk—so friendly, proactive, and genuinely welcoming. She even offered local tips and a small gift, which made the stay feel extra special. This hotel offers incredible value for money, and honestly, I’d choose it again without hesitation if I’m ever back in Beijing.

We stayed at Atour S Hotel in Beijing Dongzhimen with three friends, and it was our first time experiencing this brand—what a fantastic impression! The front desk staff were incredibly warm and welcoming. Since we visited during winter, the young guy at check-in kindly handed each of us a bottle of hot water to warm up—such a thoughtful touch. Later on, another staff member and a lovely assistant helped bring up our takeout meals multiple times; their attentiveness really stood out. Location-wise, it's perfect—super convenient for getting around to major attractions like the Forbidden City and hutongs via subway. Everything is within easy reach, making sightseeing stress-free. Clean rooms, friendly service, and excellent value—all reasons why I’d happily recommend this hotel. We couldn’t have asked for more!

Staying at Ibis Hotel (Beijing Shichahai Gulou Street Metro Station) was a delightful surprise. Nestled in a quiet alley just steps from Gulou Street Metro Station, the hotel feels like a hidden gem amid authentic Beijing neighborhood life. Surrounded by local residences and featuring a small courtyard, it offers a genuine taste of traditional hutong culture—peaceful, charming, and full of character. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-in a breeze. My room came with a thoughtful surprise: a pack of UCC Yodogawa instant coffee—perfect for a cozy morning brew. Hot water in the shower is strong and reliable, which was a lifesaver after a long day exploring the city. Clean, comfortable, and well-located, this place delivers excellent value. If I’m back in Beijing, I’ll definitely stay here again—highly recommend!

We stayed at Huale Song Hotel (Xidan Financial Street) during our trip to Beijing to catch a concert, and it was an excellent choice. The hotel is literally steps away from the subway station, making commuting super convenient—whether we were heading to the venue or exploring the city. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with everything we needed for a relaxing stay. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our visit. The location, service, and overall experience earned us a perfect score. We’ll definitely consider this hotel again on future trips to Beijing.

My stay at Mercure Beijing Anzhen Olympic Center was absolutely outstanding—everything exceeded my expectations. The staff, especially Xiao Yan, were incredibly attentive, warm, and courteous from the moment I arrived. They greeted me with a smile and even offered tea, which made the check-in feel personal and welcoming. The hotel itself is spotless, well-maintained, and beautifully designed. The room was spacious, comfortable, and equipped with all the essentials. I loved how convenient the location was—just a short walk to the Bird's Nest, with excellent public transit access nearby. On-site amenities like the gym, laundry facilities, and breakfast area added great value to the experience. Everything was thoughtfully arranged, making it easy to relax and enjoy my trip. I’d definitely return and highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Beijing.
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