Tourism GuideTemple of Heaven Park
The Temple of Heaven is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and landscape design where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed solemn ceremonies to pray for good harvests
Key Information
UNESCO World Heritage Site
1998
Construction Period
1406-1420
Total Area
273 hectares
Architectural Style
Ming Dynasty Imperial Architecture
Main Structures
Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, Imperial Vault of Heaven, Circular Mound Altar
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Autumn
Nearest Metro Station
Tiantandongmen Station (Line 5)
Annual Visitors
Over 10 million
The Temple of Heaven Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that represents the pinnacle of Chinese ritual architecture and imperial worship traditions. Built between 1406 and 1420 during the reign of Emperor Yongle of the Ming Dynasty, this magnificent complex covers an area of 273 hectares, making it larger than the Forbidden City itself. The park is a perfect embodiment of ancient Chinese cosmology, with its circular and square shapes symbolizing heaven and earth respectively. The entire complex was designed according to strict philosophical principles, with the northern part being semicircular and the southern part square, reflecting the ancient Chinese belief that Heaven is round and Earth is square. The three main structures - the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar - are arranged along a central north-south axis, demonstrating the emperors' role as the Son of Heaven mediating between celestial and earthly realms. The park is not only an architectural wonder but also a living cultural space where locals practice tai chi, play traditional instruments, and engage in social activities, creating a beautiful blend of historical significance and contemporary life.
Things to Do
- Admire the magnificent Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests with its triple-eaved circular roof and intricate wooden structure built without nails
- Walk along the Echo Wall surrounding the Imperial Vault of Heaven and experience its unique acoustic properties
- Stand at the center of the Circular Mound Altar where emperors communicated directly with Heaven
- Explore the Imperial Vault of Heaven with its beautiful blue glazed tiles and celestial decorations
- Visit the Seven Star Stones representing the seven peaks of Mount Tai
- Walk through the Long Corridor connecting the main ceremonial buildings
- Experience the local culture by watching morning tai chi practitioners and traditional music performances
- Visit the Divine Kitchen and Divine Storehouse where sacrificial offerings were prepared
- Walk through the ancient cypress forest with trees over 600 years old
- Learn about the ancient Chinese astronomical and cosmological concepts embodied in the architecture