The Temple of Heaven Park, located in Dongcheng District, Beijing, was the site where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties worshipped heaven and prayed for good harvests. It is the world's largest and most complete existing ancient architectural complex for heaven worship, and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998.
Historical Evolution
- Construction Period: Initially built in 1420 (the 18th year of Yongle in the Ming Dynasty).
- Historical Function: 22 emperors of Ming and Qing dynasties held 654 heaven worship ceremonies here.
- Modern Transformation: Opened to the public as a park in 1918.
Architectural Features
- Design Philosophy: Embodies the cosmological concept of "Round Heaven and Square Earth" and the philosophical idea of "Harmony between Heaven and Man".
- Layout: Divided into Inner Altar and Outer Altar, with main structures concentrated in the Inner Altar.
- Color Scheme: Blue symbolizes heaven, green represents earth.
Main Structures
- Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests: Triple-eaved circular hall for harvest prayers.
- Imperial Vault of Heaven: Houses heavenly tablets, famous for its Echo Wall.
- Circular Mound Altar: Three-tiered open-air altar for winter solstice ceremonies.
- Vermilion Steps Bridge: 360-meter-long sacred way connecting main structures.
Acoustic Wonders
- Echo Wall: Circular wall of Imperial Vault with remarkable sound reflection.
- Triple-Sound Stone: Clapping on the third stone in front of the vault produces three echoes.
- Conversation Stone: Two people can whisper clearly from specific positions.
Park Landscape
- Area: About 273 hectares, 3.7 times larger than the Forbidden City.
- Ancient Trees: 3,562 ancient cypresses, mostly over 500 years old.
- Vegetation: 90% green coverage, known as the "green lung of the city".
Visitor Information
- Opening Hours: Peak season (Apr 1-Oct 31) 6:00-21:00; Off-season 6:30-21:00.
- Ticket Price: 15 yuan (peak), 10 yuan (off-peak), 34 yuan combo ticket (includes main attractions).
- Recommended Route: South Gate→Circular Altar→Imperial Vault→Vermilion Bridge→Hall of Prayer→North Gate.
Travel Tips
- Best Time: Early morning to observe locals' exercises and experience old Beijing life.
- Special Events: Annual Temple of Heaven Culture Week during Spring Festival showcasing ancient rites.
- Notice: Protect heritage structures (no climbing); keep quiet at Echo Wall.