White Cloud Temple

Overview

White Cloud Temple (Baiyun Guan) is Beijing's oldest and most important Taoist temple, serving as the headquarters of the Quanzhen (Complete Reality) school of Taoism. Founded in 739 AD, it remains an active center of Taoist practice.

Highlights

• Three Monkey Carvings: Visitors search the temple grounds for three small stone monkey reliefs hidden in the architecture — finding all three is said to bring good luck.
• Hall of the Jade Emperor: The main hall housing statues of the Taoist pantheon's supreme deity, draped in elaborate embroidered fabrics.
• Taoist Priests: Unlike museum-temples, White Cloud has resident priests in traditional robes performing daily rituals and ceremonies.

History

Originally founded in 739 AD during the Tang dynasty, it was rebuilt by Genghis Khan in 1224 for the revered Taoist master Qiu Chuji. The current buildings date primarily to the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Visitor Tips

• Temple Fair: The annual Miaohui temple fair during Chinese New Year is one of Beijing's most colorful traditional festivals.
• Wind Pennant Bridge: Toss a coin through the hole in the ancient wind pennant hanging from the bridge for good luck.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.