A Day in Beijing - Lama Temple, Hutongs and Towers

Beijing is a city that balances its vast history with a modern buzz, and one of the best ways to get a taste of its quieter, timeless side is by spending a day visiting the Yonghe Temple and the Drum and Bell Towers. Start at the Yonghe Temple (also known as the Lama Temple), then wind through the nearby hutongs to the Drum and Bell Towers, taking in some of the best the city has to offer.

Arrive at Yonghe Temple early to avoid the mid morning crowds. Originally built in 1694 as a residence for Prince Yong of the Qing Dynasty, the Lama Temple became a Tibetan Buddhist monastery and remains an active centre of worship.

The temple’s serene courtyards and impressive architecture blend Han Chinese and Tibetan styles, so take time to appreciate the intricate designs and bold colours.

Inside, don’t miss the Maitreya Buddha, a towering 18-meter statue carved from a single piece of sandalwood. It’s a stunning sight and a symbol of compassion and peace, and one of the temple’s most iconic features.

If you’re interested in a little ritual, you can light some incense at the entrance and follow the local custom. The atmosphere is calm and respectful, making it a truly peaceful way to start your day.

From the temple, take a relaxed walk through the nearby hutongs, Beijing’s historic alleyways. These narrow lanes, lined with courtyard homes and little shops, are one of the city’s most charming sights. Many of these old neighborhoods have been replaced by new developments, so the remaining hutongs offer a rare glimpse into old Beijing.

Stroll through the streets, look for small cafes and boutiques, and enjoy the everyday pace of life here. Locals gather in small groups to play cards, share tea, or chat on stoops, and there’s no better way to get a sense of traditional life in the capital. The walk from the temple to the Drum and Bell Towers takes about 20 minutes, but it’s worth taking your time to soak in the atmosphere and explore any interesting side streets you come across.

Soon, you’ll see the imposing silhouettes of the Drum and Bell Towers, two of Beijing’s oldest landmarks, built nearly 700 years ago.

These towers were once the city’s official timekeepers; the Bell Tower, with its massive copper bell, marked each hour, and the Drum Tower’s beats announced the end of the day.

You can climb the steep steps of the Drum Tower for a great view of the surrounding hutongs and, on clear days, Beijing’s skyline stretching out into the distance. The climb is worth it for the view and the feeling of standing in a spot that has witnessed centuries of change.

After the climb, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite, and this area is excellent for sampling some local snacks. The hutongs are full of food stalls and small eateries where you can try baozi, soft steamed buns filled with pork or vegetables, perfect for a quick bite. For something more filling, look for zha jiang mian, a bowl of hand pulled noodles topped with a savoury, rich bean paste sauce, often accompanied by fresh cucumber and vegetables. Both are delicious, affordable, and a must try for anyone looking to dive into Beijing’s food culture.

This route gives you a day of exploring the city’s quieter side, away from the bigger tourist attractions. It’s the kind of day that lets you wander at your own pace, take in the local life, and feel a part of Beijing’s layers of history and tradition. If you’re willing to walk and take in the sights slowly, you’ll leave with a true sense of Beijing’s spirit, and maybe a few stories to carry with you long after.