Guangji Temple

Guangji Temple, on Beijing's Fuchengmennei Street, serves as headquarters of the Buddhist Association of China. Founded in the Jin dynasty and repeatedly rebuilt, its present layout dates mainly from the Ming and Qing periods, arranged along a north–south axis of successive halls. The temple safeguards Buddhist scriptures, paintings and bronzes, including a large sandalwood carving of the thousand-armed Guanyin. Though set amid busy streets, its enclosed courtyards keep a contemplative air, and it remains an active centre of monastic life.