Zhao Temple in Fragrant Hills | A unique existence among famous scenic spots

Entering from the north gate of Fragrant Hills Park, passing through the Glasses Lake, and following the signs along the stone path uphill, a building with a distinctive red and white style appears in the woods, forming a stark contrast with the surrounding gardens. That is our destination today—Zhao Temple. Zhao Temple, officially known as the Grand Zhao Temple of Ancestral Reflection, was built to celebrate Emperor Qianlong's 70th birthday. The Sixth Panchen Lama traveled thousands of miles from Lhasa to Beijing, taking 13 months. To welcome this living Buddha, Qianlong Emperor had this Tibetan Gelug monastery constructed as the Panchen Lama's temporary palace. Upon arrival in Beijing, the Sixth Panchen Lama personally held the consecration ceremony for the temple. Zhao Temple features a Sino-Tibetan architectural style, and as you tour, you'll frequently notice features that blend Chinese and Tibetan elements. It follows the Tibetan layout of 'a white platform in front and a red platform in the back', with the glazed archway and the octagonal pavilion of the imperial stele situated in between, which are typical of the Han style. Unique Tibetan rectangular windows with added Han-style glazed windows, among other features, all indicate the special existence of this temple. 🔸Touring Tips: 1. Currently, only the front white platform and the Glazed Wanshou Pagoda of Zhao Temple are open to the public; the red platform is still under renovation. Standing in front of the Glazed Pagoda, you can overlook the entire temple. 2. The temple was once burnt down, and only the glazed archway, the stone base of the Mani pole, stone steles, and the Wanshou seven-layered octagonal glazed pagoda have been preserved; other buildings have been reconstructed. 3. The park offers volunteer guides. If you encounter one, it is recommended to listen, as it will allow you to deeply understand the temple's background story and viewing highlights. 4. At Zhao Temple, you can try to capture the atmosphere of Tibet. The square in front of the white platform should be the focus of photography, with the white walls, small windows, and Mani poles serving as backgrounds with distinctive Tibetan characteristics. 📍Location & Transportation: Located within Fragrant Hills Park, the north gate is the nearest entrance. After entering the park, follow the signs and walk for about 500 meters. There is a parking lot outside the north gate, but spaces are very limited. 🕑Opening Hours: 8:30-16:30 (Zhao Temple) 🎫Admission: General admission ticket allows entry, no separate ticket required. 🌟Tips: Currently, the wintersweet flowers in Fragrant Hills Park are in their prime viewing period, and they are very close to Zhao Temple, so bring them along when you visit.