Buddhist Temple Overnight
| Overnight stay in Bailin Temple, Hebei For those of you who desire to leave the city of Beijing for a more peaceful venture, join China Reflection and travel to nearby Hebei Province for an overnight stay in Bailin Temple. Bailin Temple is renowned for it’s nearby stone archway bridge, the oldest of its kind in the world. If you have an interest in ancient architecture, Buddhism, and monastery life, then this trip is suitable for you. Bailin Temple has a history of nearly 2000 years. Please read further for a more detailed description of this unique venture.Schedule: We will depart from Beijing by train (3 hours) in the morning and should arrive in Hebei (Shi Jia Zhuang) in the afternoon. From Shi Zha Zhuang city it is approximately a one hour bus ride to Bailin Temple. Barring traffic problems, we should arrive at the temple in the afternoon where we will be just in time for their early afternoon prayers. As we arrive, we’ll be introduced to individual monks. Juxtaposed to the morning cacophony of Beijing, the atmosphere couldn’t offer a more relaxing contrast. After a simple dinner sitting side by side with the monks, we will spend the night in one of the temples’ simple guest rooms.On the second morning, one of the monks will give us a tour of the temple and introduce you to the daily routines. After that, it’s really up to you to go where you please. Again, the famous stone archway bridge is very close to the temple, so it’s a good chance to see some ancient architecture. We will leave the temple on the afternoon of the 2nd day and should arrive back in Beijing for dinner.
Chinese, for the most part, live a very casual and relaxed lifestyle. However, as monks live a life of solitude and prayer there are certain rules and restrictions that you need to be aware of during your stay in the temple, in order to show respect and goodwill. 1. When greeting monks in the temple, it is respectful to put your hands together in a prayer position and bow the head slightly. Keeping a smile is always a good idea, too. Although in the West handshakes and hugs may be common greetings, monks may be uncomfortable should you offer a handshake or embrace them. Remember DO NOT pat a monk on the head as this is considered very disrespectful. 2. Should you have the opportunity to engage one of the monks in 3. When talking in the temple, keep your voice at a low volume and avoid pointing carelessly at everything around you, as it may seem offensive. Although the objects in the temple are beautiful, please avoid touching them or taking pictures with them. If you wish to take any pictures while in the temple, please first ask one of the monks. 4. There may be some activities taking place in the temple while you are there. Should you have the chance to observe any of these activities be sure to keep silent as you watch, so as not to disturb the participants. 5. Keep a close eye on your children, should they accompany you on this visit. Additionally, men and women are not to sleep together, as there will be separate rooms for opposite sexes. 6. In the temple, all the food will be vegetarian, so please refrain from carrying any meat in your luggage for snacks. Also, alcoholic beverages and smoking are not allowed. The use of any kinds of drugs will not be tolerated. Price: US$200 Price Includes:
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