Jokhang Temple Scenic Area in Lhasa City is located in Barkhor Street, Chengguan District, Lhasa City, Tibet Autonomous Region. It is a national 5A-level tourist scenic area and a renowned monastery of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Jokhang Temple covers a total area of more than 25,100 square meters, with a building area of 25,000 square meters. The scenic area has distinct features. Jokhang Temple integrates the architectural styles of Tibet, the Tang Dynasty, Nepal, and India, becoming a classic model of Tibetan religious architecture. The temple houses a large number of precious cultural relics, such as the Tang-Tubo Alliance Stele, the Stele Persuading People to Care for Those with Smallpox, as well as numerous exquisite murals, Buddha statues, and thangkas, which possess extremely high historical, cultural, and artistic values. Jokhang Temple holds an extremely lofty status in Tibetan Buddhism and is one of the central pilgrimage sites for Tibetan Buddhist believers.
History and Culture
Jokhang Temple was first built during the Tubo Dynasty in the 7th century AD. It was constructed by Songtsen Gampo, the King of Tibet, to commemorate Princess Bhrikuti's entry into Tibet. At that time, Jokhang Temple was built to enshrine the 8-year-old equal-body statue of Sakyamuni brought by Princess Bhrikuti from her hometown. Later, when Princess Wencheng entered Tibet, she brought the 12-year-old equal-body statue of Sakyamuni, which was also enshrined here. Over time, Jokhang Temple has been continuously expanded and renovated, gradually forming its current scale.
Throughout history, Jokhang Temple has witnessed many important historical events in the Tibet region. The Tang-Tubo Alliance Stele stands in front of Jokhang Temple. It is an important witness of the alliance between the Tang Dynasty and Tubo, reflecting the friendly relations between the Han and Tibetan ethnic groups at that time. In addition, Jokhang Temple is closely linked to the political and religious development of Tibet. Major religious activities such as the ordination ceremonies of successive Dalai Lamas and Panchen Lamas have been held here, playing an important role in the inheritance and development of Tibetan Buddhism.
Barkhor Street, also known as Bakuo Street, surrounds Jokhang Temple. It is one of the most bustling commercial streets in Lhasa and an important route for Tibetan Buddhist believers to circumambulate. Barkhor Street preserves a large number of traditional Tibetan buildings and folk cultures, exuding a strong Tibetan flavor, further enriching the cultural connotations of the Jokhang Temple Scenic Area.
Main Attractions
The Main Hall
The main hall of Jokhang Temple is the core building of the entire temple. The main hall is four stories high, with an imposing manner. On the first floor, the 12-year-old equal-body statue of Sakyamuni brought by Princess Wencheng is enshrined. This Buddha statue is regarded as one of the most sacred Buddha statues by Tibetan Buddhist believers, and believers travel thousands of miles to pay homage. The walls of the main hall are painted with exquisite murals, rich in content, including Buddhist stories, historical figures, etc., with bright colors and extremely high artistic value. On the second floor, there are statues of Songtsen Gampo, Princess Wencheng, and Princess Bhrikuti, showing the historical features of that time. On the third and fourth floors, you can overlook the panoramic view of Jokhang Temple and the bustling scene of Barkhor Street.
The Tang-Tubo Alliance Stele
The Tang-Tubo Alliance Stele is located on the square in front of Jokhang Temple. Its full name is "Tang-Tubo Alliance Stele", also known as the "Changqing Alliance Stele" and "Uncle-Nephew Alliance Stele". The stele is engraved with both Tibetan and Chinese characters, recording the friendly alliance between the Tang Dynasty and Tubo. This stele is a historical witness of the friendly relations between the Han and Tibetan ethnic groups and has important value for studying the political, economic, and cultural exchanges between the Tang Dynasty and Tubo. It is also an important historical and cultural relic scenic spot in the Jokhang Temple Scenic Area.
Barkhor Street
Barkhor Street is built around Jokhang Temple. The street is winding and tortuous, with a total length of about 1,000 meters. On both sides of the street are a wide variety of shops selling various Tibetan handicrafts, religious items, characteristic clothing, etc. Barkhor Street is also a must-pass route for Tibetan Buddhist believers to circumambulate. Every day, a large number of believers hold prayer wheels and circumambulate clockwise along the street, creating a very spectacular scene. Here, tourists can feel the strong religious atmosphere and unique Tibetan folk culture and also taste various authentic Tibetan delicacies.
The Debating Field
The debating field of Jokhang Temple is a place where monks conduct Buddhist debates. Debating is an important learning method in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Through debates, monks can deepen their understanding of Buddhist teachings. The debating field is generally open at specific times. At that time, the monks will wear their robes and engage in intense debates around the debating topics. Tourists can watch from the side and feel the unique learning atmosphere and cultural charm of Tibetan Buddhism.
Delicacies
Sweet Tea
Sweet tea is a common beverage around Jokhang Temple Scenic Area and one of the traditional beverages loved by the Tibetan people. It is made by boiling black tea and then adding milk and sugar for preparation. It tastes sweet and delicious, with a rich milk flavor and tea aroma. Tourists can taste authentic sweet tea in the teahouses or restaurants near Jokhang Temple. A cup of sweet tea, paired with some Tibetan-style snacks, is a pleasant leisure way locally.
Tibetan-style Yogurt
Tibetan-style yogurt is famous for its rich and mellow taste. It is made by fermenting yak milk, with a thick texture and moderate acidity. Tibetan-style yogurt is usually sprinkled with some white sugar or honey to increase the sweetness. Tourists can taste this delicious yogurt at the snack stalls or restaurants around Jokhang Temple. It not only has a unique taste but is also rich in nutrition and is one of the characteristic delicacies loved by tourists.
Tibetan Noodles
Tibetan noodles are a characteristic noodle dish in Lhasa. The noodles are thin and chewy and are usually served with beef soup and beef chunks. The beef soup is made by simmering yak beef for a long time and tastes delicious. The way of eating Tibetan noodles is also unique. Generally, a small plate of chili oil and vinegar will be provided, and tourists can add them according to their own taste. You can taste delicious Tibetan noodles in Tibetan restaurants or street shops near Jokhang Temple.
Deep-fried Lamb Chops
Deep-fried lamb chops are a delicacy in Tibetan cuisine. Fresh lamb chops are selected, marinated, and then fried until golden and crispy. The deep-fried lamb chops are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with an attractive aroma and delicious meat. Tourists can taste this delicious dish in some restaurants around Jokhang Temple. Paired with some highland barley wine, it can better let you experience the unique flavor of Tibetan cuisine.
Entrance Tickets
The entrance ticket price of Jokhang Temple Scenic Area is 85 yuan per person. The ticket price remains the same during the peak tourist season (from May 1st to October 31st) and the off-season (from November 1st to April 30th of the following year). Children under 1.2 meters in height are free of charge. Active-duty military personnel, disabled people, the elderly (60 years old and above), etc., can enjoy free tickets or preferential policies with valid certificates, subject to the specific regulations of the scenic area. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window of Jokhang Temple Scenic Area or reserved in advance through some online travel platforms.
Opening Hours
Jokhang Temple Scenic Area is open throughout the year, with opening hours from 09:00 to 18:00. During special festivals or religious events, the opening hours may be adjusted. Tourists can pay attention to the official website of Jokhang Temple or relevant announcements in advance to arrange their itinerary reasonably. Generally, the morning is when Jokhang Temple is most crowded with pilgrims as there are many believers coming to worship.
Tour Routes
Recommended tour route: Tourists first come to the square in front of Jokhang Temple, visit the Tang-Tubo Alliance Stele, and learn about its historical significance. Then enter Jokhang Temple and visit the main hall in turn according to the tour route, pay homage to the 12-year-old equal-body statue of Sakyamuni, and admire the exquisite murals. Then you can go to the second and third floors to view the statues of Songtsen Gampo, Princess Wencheng, and Princess Bhrikuti and overlook the panoramic view of Jokhang Temple. After visiting the interior of Jokhang Temple, go to the debating field. If you happen to be there during the debating time, you can watch the Buddhist debates of the monks. Finally, walk out of Jokhang Temple and stroll along Barkhor Street, feel the strong religious atmosphere and Tibetan folk culture, and at the same time, you can taste various Tibetan delicacies and buy characteristic souvenirs. The whole tour process takes about 2 to 3 hours, and tourists can adjust it according to their own time and interests.
Transportation
- Public transportation: In Lhasa City, you can take buses such as No. 7, No. 8, and No. 20 to Jokhang Temple Station, with a fare of 1 to 2 yuan. In addition, you can also take a tricycle, and the price is generally around 10 to 20 yuan. The specific price can be negotiated with the driver.
- Taxi: Taking a taxi to Jokhang Temple in Lhasa City is relatively convenient. The starting price of a taxi in the city is 10 yuan (including 2 kilometers), and then it charges about 2 yuan per kilometer. The cost from other places in the city to Jokhang Temple is generally between 10 and 30 yuan, depending on the driving distance.
- Walking: If tourists stay in a hotel or inn near Jokhang Temple, they can also choose to walk there, which allows them to enjoy the scenery along the way and better experience the atmosphere of Lhasa City.
Must-visit Attractions
- The Main Hall: The core building of Jokhang Temple, four stories high, enshrines the 12-year-old equal-body statue of Sakyamuni. There are exquisite murals on the walls, and there are statues of Songtsen Gampo, etc. on the second floor. You can overlook the panoramic view.
- The Tang-Tubo Alliance Stele: Located on the square in front of Jokhang Temple, engraved with both Tibetan and Chinese characters, it is a historical witness of the friendly relations between the Han and Tibetan ethnic groups and has important historical value.
- Barkhor Street: Surrounding Jokhang Temple, about 1,000 meters long, it is a commercial street and a circumambulation route. There are many shops, where you can feel the religious atmosphere and folk culture and taste delicacies.
Tour Tips
- Since Jokhang Temple is a religious holy place, tourists should dress appropriately when entering the temple. Do not wear overly revealing or casual clothing. It is best to wear long sleeves and long pants.
- When visiting Jokhang Temple, keep quiet, respect religious beliefs and cultural customs, and do not make loud noises, touch cultural relics, or Buddha statues, etc.
- It is relatively dark inside Jokhang Temple. It is recommended that tourists bring a flashlight to better admire the murals and Buddha statues.
- Barkhor Street is crowded with people. Tourists should take care of their belongings when shopping to prevent loss or theft.
- When tasting local delicacies, pay attention to food hygiene and avoid eating too much raw and cold food to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.
- If you are interested in Tibetan Buddhist culture, it is recommended to learn some relevant knowledge in advance so that you can better understand and appreciate the history and culture of Jokhang Temple.
Notes
- When entering Jokhang Temple, it is strictly prohibited to carry inflammable and explosive items, controlled knives, and other dangerous items.
- Photography and video recording are prohibited in some areas inside Jokhang Temple. Tourists should abide by this regulation and respect the regulations on cultural relic protection and religious places. If photography is allowed, do not use the flash to avoid damaging the cultural relics.
- When shopping around Jokhang Temple, pay attention to the price and quality of goods to avoid being deceived by unscrupulous merchants. You can compare several stores and choose merchants with good reputations to buy specialties and souvenirs.
- The debating field of Jokhang Temple has specific opening hours and regulations. When watching the debates, tourists should not disturb the monks at will and should abide by the on-site order.
- If you feel unwell or encounter other emergencies during the tour, seek help from the staff of the scenic area in a timely manner or go to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.