The Temple of Heaven (天坛) is an imperial sacrificial altar located in Beijing. It is the most complete existing imperial sacrificial building complex in China and the world's largest existing building complex for offering sacrifice to heaven. The Temple of Heaven is larger than the Forbidden City but smaller than the Summer Palace, roughly the same size as Central Park in New York or twice the size of Hyde Park. From 1420 to 1900, 22 Chinese Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties worshipped the god of heaven and prayed for good harvests there twice a year. To earn the respect of the people, Chinese emperors called themselves the "sons of Heaven". The annual sacrificial ceremonies at the Temple of Heaven were the emperors' most important religious and political activities.

Completed together with the Forbidden City in 1420, the Temple of Heaven is a dignified complex of fine cult buildings set in gardens and surrounded by historic pine woods. Within the complex, there are a total of 92 ancient buildings with 600 rooms. The design of the main buildings is a combination of circles and squares, symbolizing the belief that Heaven is round and Earth is square. The symbolic layout and design of the Temple of Heaven had a profound influence on architecture and planning in the Far East for many centuries.

The Circular Mound Altar and The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests are the must-see highlights. You can learn about the culture of heaven worship, architectural geomancy, and medieval China's sacrificial rites. Don't forget to visit the Echo Wall to experience its magic. If you say something at one end of the wall, the message can be heard even if standing 100–150 meters away. Today, the Temple of Heaven is a morning exercise haven for locals. You can see Beijingers dancing, practicing Tai chi, and taking leisurely walks in the Temple of Heaven park. It is a perfect place to observe the retired life of Chinese people, and you are welcome to join them.

Beijing Temple of Heaven

Temple of Heaven