Temple of Heaven

City:The Temple of Heaven is located in the bustling city of Beijing, the capital of China. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Beijing is a city where the old and new coexist. From the ancient Forbidden City and Great Wall to the modern Bird's Nest Stadium and Water Cube, Beijing offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

The Temple of Heaven, or Tian Tan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most sacred sites in Beijing. Built in the 15th century during the Ming Dynasty, it was a place where emperors offered sacrifices to heaven and prayed for good harvests. The temple complex is famous for its unique architectural beauty and symbolic layout, reflecting the ancient Chinese cosmological belief that heaven is round and earth is square.

Known for:Its iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a magnificent triple-gabled circular building.

Temple of Heaven Architecture

The temple's architecture is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Chinese architects. The buildings are circular, representing heaven, and they rest on square bases, representing earth. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is particularly noteworthy, with its wooden pillars supporting a triple-eaved roof without the use of nails.

Restaurants near Temple of Heaven

Nearby restaurants include Tian Tan Kitchen and Deyuan Roast Duck Restaurant, offering a variety of Chinese cuisines.

Best Time to Visit Temple of Heaven

The best time to visit the temple is early morning when locals can be seen practising Tai Chi in the surrounding park.

How to Reach Temple of Heaven

The temple is easily accessible by subway. Take Line 5 and get off at Tiantan Dongmen Station, Exit A.

Tips for Visiting

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd.
• Be respectful as it's a place of worship.

Nearby Tourist Spots of Temple of Heaven

• The Forbidden City:An iconic palace complex at the heart of Beijing.
• Tiananmen Square:A historic public square and a symbol of Chinese culture.
• National Museum of China:A museum showcasing Chinese art and history.