Many of the Beijing temples I’ve visited are now museums or significant historical sites. However, the Western Yellow Temple is an active lamasery. The emperor built Xihuangsi in the 17th century to honor the visit of the Panchen Lama to Beijing. A portrait of the current Panchen Lama hangs in the main hall. Originally, Xihuangsi had a twin, the Eastern Yellow Temple. Unfortunately, it was lost during the Cultural Revolution.
Stone Towers
A stone pagoda with its series of beautifully carved towers shines as the star of this temple. Emperor Qianlong built the pagoda in the 18th century to honor the 6th-generation Panchen Lama. It is spectacular! The pagoda boasts intricate and detailed carvings. Unfortunately, guests can’t climb up to inspect the carvings. However, when the sun is shining, it is beautiful. Two fantastic stone lions flank the pagoda.
Colors!
Such wonderful colors fill the place! Colorful braided ribbons drape around the lions’ necks. In two front halls, a collection of vibrant chromatic paintings and tapestries hangs. And, because this is an active and important temple, the halls are well maintained and brightly painted.
The Rest
The rear hall is a two-story, horseshoe shaped building. The downstairs houses the scriptures and the upstairs the Panchen. There are two large pavilions on either side of the pagoda protecting two celebratory stelae. There is a lovely gate separating the front of the temple from the main halls and pagoda at the rear.
I would highly recommend a visit to this lovely place. However, visiting hours are limited to weekends only, so make sure you plan accordingly.
