Tongjiao Temple, a renowned nunnery in Beijing, is situated in Zhenxian Alley, Dongzhimen, Dongcheng District. After a recent renovation, the temple complex boasts a three-room mountain gate. The main hall, dedicated to Mahavira, is positioned at the west end, with two two-story buildings housing a total of 40 rooms on the north and south sides. Behind the north building, you’ll find three rooms of Qingtai Liao. The wing halls on the north and south feature various halls, including the Jialan Hall, Wu Guan Hall, Nianfo Hall, and Ancestors Hall.
Opposite the mountain gate, a park teems with ancient pines, cypresses, and exotic flora, enhancing the temple’s serene ambiance. Stepping through the mountain gate, visitors are greeted by the refurbished Mahavira Hall, where a statue of Amitabha Buddha, seated on a lotus throne, exudes solemnity and is a marvel of exquisite craftsmanship. The main hall is complemented by well-arranged monk’s quarters, with the Wu Guan Hall to the left front and the Nianfo Hall to the right front.
Tongjiao Temple also preserves two stone tablets from its 1942 renovation and features the Mahavira Hall, Nianfo Hall, Wu Guan Hall, and nuns’ quarters among its main Buddhist structures. The Mahavira Hall stands out for its ‘Portraits of the Fifty-three Visits of Sudhana,’ which have gained fame far and wide. The temple also houses two stone inscriptions and a collection of the Japanese ‘Taisho Tripitaka.’
Visitors are welcome to explore Tongjiao Temple from 08:30 to 16:30 every day of the year.
