Upon visiting, I quickly learned that Yonghe Temple (aka Lama Temple or Yonghegong) had nothing to do with llamas. Also, a lamasery is a monastery for monks of Tibetan Buddhism. 

All silliness aside, the Yonghe Temple is worth the visit. It’s a welcome respite from the busyness of Beijing. The gardens are really peaceful and beautiful. The temple takes a couple of hours to explore and also the nearby hutongs were a real delight. 

Hours: every day, 9am-5pm

Location: The Yonghe Temple is located in Beijing’s Dongcheng District, near the northeastern corner of the Second Ring Road. Lines 2 and 5 of the Beijing Subway both stop at Yonghegong Lama Temple Station, as do a number of city buses. 

Address: 12 Yonghegong Dajie, Beixinqiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing