10 Things to Do in Temple of Heaven Beijing, China
The Temple of Heaven, or Tian Tan, is one of Beijing's most iconic landmarks. Located in the southeastern part of the city, the Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings that was constructed in the early 15th century. Since then, it has been a site of spiritual and cultural significance for the Chinese people. Here are 10 things to do while visiting the Temple of Heaven in Beijing.
1. Explore the Temple of Heaven Park: The Temple of Heaven Park is a large public park that surrounds the Temple of Heaven complex. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the stunning architecture of the complex. The park also has a large lake, where visitors can take a boat ride and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
2. Visit the Circular Mound Altar: The Circular Mound Altar is the most important structure in the Temple of Heaven complex. It was used for important ceremonies such as the Heaven Worship Ceremony and the Imperial Examination. The altar is surrounded by a series of marble balustrades and is a great place to take pictures.
3. Enjoy a Performance at the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests: The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is the most iconic structure in the Temple of Heaven complex. This impressive building was built in the early 15th century and is the largest wooden structure in the world. Inside the hall, visitors can enjoy traditional Chinese performances such as music and acrobatics.
4. Visit the Imperial Vault of Heaven: The Imperial Vault of Heaven is a three-story structure located in the center of the Temple of Heaven complex. It was used to store the emperor's ritual objects and is a great place to learn about the history of the complex.
5. Explore the Echo Wall: The Echo Wall is a curved wall that surrounds the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. It is said that if two people stand at opposite ends of the wall and whisper, they will be able to hear each other clearly.
6. Visit the Divine Music Administration: The Divine Music Administration is a complex of buildings located in the Temple of Heaven complex. It was used to train musicians for the emperor's court and is a great place to learn about traditional Chinese music.
7. Enjoy a Meal at the Imperial Kitchen: The Imperial Kitchen is a complex of buildings located in the Temple of Heaven complex. It was used to prepare meals for the emperor and his court and is a great place to enjoy traditional Chinese cuisine.
8. Explore the Imperial Garden: The Imperial Garden is a large garden located in the Temple of Heaven complex. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
9. Visit the Hall of Abstinence: The Hall of Abstinence is a small building located in the Temple of Heaven complex. It was used by the emperor and his court to practice religious fasting and abstinence.
10. Take a Tour of the Temple of Heaven: The Temple of Heaven is a large complex and it can be difficult to explore on your own. Fortunately, there are many guided tours available that will help you make the most of your visit.
The Temple of Heaven is a must-see destination in Beijing and is a great place to explore Chinese culture and history. Whether you are looking to take a leisurely stroll, explore the complex, or enjoy a traditional Chinese performance, there is something for everyone at the Temple of Heaven.