top of page

Beijing hidden gem: A temple café and restaurantin Beijing’s hutongs

  • Writer: Bite Escape-Lin
    Bite Escape-Lin
  • Oct 10
  • 2 min read

☕ Temple Dongjinyuan东景缘

📍 Shantan North Street Songzhuyuan No.23,Beijing, China

 ⏰ 10:00am-19:00pm

If you’re searching for a true Beijing hidden gem, this might be the chillest spiritual landmark you’ll ever find.
While most of Beijing moves at a fast pace, this hidden spot feels timeless. Temple Dongjingyuan, once known as Zhizhu Temple, is one of my favorite hidden gems in Beijing — and honestly, one of the city’s most photogenic Beijing cafés and cultural venues.
Located just 400 meters from the Forbidden City, the temple has a history of over 600 years. It once stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Lama Temple and Biyun Temple in prestige, before falling into disrepair. In 2007, a Belgian named Wen Shounuo discovered it and spent five years lovingly restoring the site, transforming it into the serene Temple Dongjingyuan we see today.
Now, it’s not only a Beijing hidden gem filled with history and art, but also a peaceful café and exhibition space where you can escape the city’s noise and enjoy a moment of calm.

Recommended spots inside

1, HUI Temple Cafe&Teahouse
A hidden zen-style tea-healing space in the city. Quiet and peaceful-perfect for hanging out with a couple of friends or just making a pot of tea for yourself.
With the sound of insects and greenery around, you can sit in the sunshine for an afternoon and unwind.
The tea house also has yoga rooms, exhibition areas, and a bookstore. The whole vibe is calm, elegant, and a little nostalgic.

2, TRB Hutong
A Michelin-starred French restaurant founded by Ignace Lecleir, beautifully merging old Beijing hutong charm with refined French dining.
Located right at the foot of Jingshan Hill — expect higher prices, but worth it.

3, Gathered Sky
The only permanent light installation inside JT Temple, created by American artist James Turrell.
Through an opening in the roof, it captures the changing colors of Beijing’s sky —
a mesmerizing, meditative experience.
Open to the public on Thursdays through Sundays with advance booking; each session lasts about an hour.

4, Gallery
Holds various rotating art exhibitions. This place is loved by luxury brands — they often come here to host exhibitions.

5, Temple Yoga
A meditative yoga space inside the temple, great for slow, immersive sessions. Check the schedule in advance on the offcial Wechat account of Temple Dongjinyuan.

Comments

bottom of page