Temple of Heaven is the existing largest ancient complex of religious buildings, and it is also the valuable heritage of the world architectures. The complex was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for good harvest. The layout is well-arranged and the environment is beautiful. The complex of Temple of Heaven demonstrates Chinese ancient people’s understanding of the universe, and also marks the supreme achievement of Chinese traditional architectures.

Though it serves as the place for worshiping heaven, it does not resemble the western architectures of very large scale. Instead, it is in line with the principle that one hundred Chi is perfect for shape, and thus the highest Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is only 38 meters tall. Three levels of marble stone base makes it grander visually.

In the vast Temple of Heaven, not only those ancient buildings are enchanting and refreshing, but also the vigorous and lush cypresses forest. There are 3,500 ancient cypresses, scattered around the central axis of religious buildings. The garden view has made the solemn Temple of Heaven quieter.

Address: No. 7 Neidongli, Temple of Heaven, Dongcheng District, Beijing 北京市东城区天坛内东里7号

Traffic Guide: Beijing Subway Line 5 Tiantandongmen Station.