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Overview

The Temple of Heaven is an imperial complex of religious buildings situated in the southeastern part of central Beijing. It was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for good harvest.

Built between 1406 and 1420 during the reign of the Yongle Emperor, the Temple of Heaven was enlarged and rebuilt during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The complex was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 for its architectural beauty and historical significance.

Key Attractions

Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

A magnificent triple-gabled circular building, where emperors prayed for good harvests. The building is completely wooden, with no nails.

Imperial Vault of Heaven

A single-gabled circular building, used to store the tablets of Heaven and the Emperor's ancestors.

Circular Mound Altar

An empty circular platform where the Emperor prayed for good weather on the winter solstice.

Echo Wall

A circular wall around the Imperial Vault of Heaven known for its acoustic properties.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

April - October: 6:00 - 20:00

November - March: 6:30 - 18:00

Admission Fees

Peak Season (April - October): ¥35

Off Season (November - March): ¥30

Audio Guide: ¥40

Getting There

Subway: Line 5 to Tiantan East Gate

Bus: Lines 6, 34, 35, 36, 106, 110, 687, 707

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May)

Pleasant weather and beautiful blossoms

Recommended

Autumn (September-November)

Clear skies and comfortable temperatures

Recommended

Early Morning

Best time to see local activities

Local Experience

Sunset

Beautiful lighting for photography

Photography

Photography Tips

Best Photo Spots

  • Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests from the north
  • Echo Wall's circular perspective
  • Long Corridor during sunrise
  • Circular Mound Altar's symmetrical patterns

Timing

  • Early morning for best light
  • Golden hour for warm tones
  • Cloudy days for even lighting