How to Visit the Temple of Heaven in Beijing

Built during the fifteenth century, by the same Emperor that built the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven is a sacred temple for prayers to Heaven for good harvests. Covering over 650 acres of land, it is a tranquil place with a few amazing engineering feats.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Local currency
• Transportation or a tour company

1. The Temple of Heaven was used as the main building for prayer and sacrifices to heaven by the emperor, who was named the "Son of Heaven" in ancient times. Twice a year, the emperor traveled from the Forbidden City to the Temple of Heaven to pray for the entire nation's annual prosperity and agricultural bounty.

2. The Temple's grounds are comprised of The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, which is a circular building completely made of wood (without the assistance of nails!); The Imperial Vault of Heaven is another circular building built on a foundation of marble; The Circular Mound Altar, a circular platform where the emperor held his prayers for auspicious weather for the year.

3. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is breathtakingly beautiful with its symmetrical pillars representing the 4 seasons, the 12 months and 12 traditional Chinese hours. The Circular Mound Altar is a single round plate surrounded by outer plates, and when you stand on the center plate and speak in a low voice, you will hear your echo in less than 10 seconds.

4. There are inner and outer walls surrounding the entire complex. The most noteworthy is the smooth Echo Wall that surrounds the Imperial Vault of Heaven. It's worth making sure that you visit the wall with a companion, just to experience the Echo Wall. Have them stand beside the wall at the East end, and whisper something to you. You then stand at the West end and listen. Due to the sound waves that carry your companion's voice along the wall, you will be able to hear every word they utter.