Prayers at old temple on New Year

The year of the dragon has come, and in Beijing, thousands flocked to the Lama Temple for prayers.
Never mind freezing temperatures.
The 17th century monastery is a popular place of worship for people from all over China on the first day of the Lunar New Year.
Incense burned and prayers were said.
One auspicious practice is to hit a giant bell with a stick. This is meant to ward off evil and bring luck for the year ahead.
(SOUNDBITE) (Mandarin) 32-YEAR-OLD BEIJING RESIDENT WU KEWEI SAYING:
"In the new year, I wish my parents good health, that the children grow up well, and that my wife and I will be safe and sound. I hope we'll be healthy. Health is the most important. I wish for safety and health."
The temple-goers have high hopes for the year of the dragon, believed to be the most auspicious year in the Chinese zodiac.
(SOUNDBITE) (Mandarin) 30-YEAR-OLD BEIJING RESIDENT JIN YU SAYING:
"Last year my career didn't go well. I think that the beginning of the Year of the Dragon has been alright and pretty smooth. I hope that the new year will be smooth."
Another New Year's custom is throwing coins at an ancient incense burner -- to make wishes come true.
Celebrations welcoming the year of the dragon will last for 15 days in China.
It's the biggest festival in the country when families spend time together. And it also marks the beginning of spring.
Michaela Cabrera, Reuters.