Among the most enduring of these traditions is the pilgrimage to a Buddhist temple to pray for blessings in the year ahead. On the outskirts of Beijing, nestled at the foot of a scenic mountain, the ancient Hongluo Temple (红螺寺) becomes a vibrant hub of faith, culture, and celebration as thousands flock to participate in this sacred ritual.



From the early morning hours of the New Year, a steady stream of visitors makes the journey to Hongluo Temple, located some 50 kilometers from the city center in Huairou District. Undeterred by the cold and the long drive, an estimated 20,000 worshippers pass through its gates on the first day alone, all united by a common desire to secure a year of peace, success, and happiness.

For many, the act of worshipping is deeply personal. Among the crowd, a visitor who arrives as early as 7:30 a.m. explains it is an annual family tradition: “I come here every year on the first day of the New Year. I wish the country success and prosperity, and good health for my family.” A young student sees the visit as a source of hope for the future. “I will take the university entrance examination this year,” they share. “I hope to have a good outcome.” Another common wish echoes through the temple grounds, as a hopeful visitor confides, “Praying on the first day of the New Year is very effective. I wish to have a baby this year.”

This last wish is particularly resonant at Hongluo Temple, which has a special place in local culture. An old Beijing saying advises, "Men go to Yonghe, and women go to Hongluo." While the Lama Temple in the city center is popular among men praying for career advancement, Hongluo Temple has long been revered by women seeking blessings for marriage and children, believed to be a special grace of this ancient site.

To accommodate the massive influx of worshippers while being mindful of the environment, the temple has adopted eco-friendly practices. The air, filled with the scent of sandalwood, comes from custom-made incense sticks. As Yuan Jing, Manager of the Tour Guidance Department at Hongluo Temple, explains, “Our incense sticks are custom-made of sandpaper, timber, and clay. We’ve taken environmental factors into account. And we usually worship with three sticks together,” a practice that minimizes smoke while maintaining the sanctity of the ritual.


A Journey Through 1,600 Years of Buddhist History

The spiritual significance of Hongluo Temple is matched by its profound history. Founded in 338 AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, it is considered the birthplace of Buddhism in Northern China, with a legacy spanning over 1,600 years. Its importance is encapsulated in the famous saying, "Putuo in the South, Hongluo in the North," placing it on par with the legendary Mount Putuo, the great spiritual center of Southern China.



The temple is a major seat of the Pure Land School of Buddhism, a tradition continued by two of its most famous ancestors, the 12th and 13th patriarchs, who practiced and resided here. Its prestige was further cemented through centuries of imperial patronage. During the Ming Dynasty, Emperor Yingzong bestowed upon it the grand name "Huguo Zifu Chan Temple" (Temple of Protecting the Nation and Blessing Prosperity), though it has always remained "Hongluo," or "Red Snail," in the hearts of the common people, a name derived from the beautiful red snail shells found on the mountain.

Beyond its halls and history, the temple grounds are a scenic wonder, famous for the "Three Wonders of Hongluo." Visitors strolling through the temple can admire the lush Imperial Bamboo Grove, first planted during the Yuan Dynasty. They can marvel at the ancient Male and Female Ginkgo Trees in front of the Main Hall; over 1,100 years old, one blossoms without fruiting, and the other fruits without blossoming. And they can gaze upon the magnificent sight of wisteria vines completely entwined around a massive pine tree, a symbol of enduring love and unity.


A Temple Fair for the Senses

During the Spring Festival holiday, the experience at Hongluo Temple extends beyond prayer and history. The temple hosts a traditional temple fair, transforming the ancient complex into a lively festival. The air fills with the enticing aromas of local snacks, and the sounds of folk performances create a festive backdrop. As dusk falls, the temple is illuminated by 5,000 lanterns, casting a warm, magical glow and ushering visitors into the week-long celebration.

For those who make the journey, a visit to Hongluo Temple during the Spring Festival is more than just a day trip. It is a profound cultural experience—a chance to connect with 1,600 years of Buddhist heritage, to participate in an enduring tradition, and to ring in the New Year with hope, prayer, and the promise of good fortune.