The Temple of Heaven is a religious site from Imperial times. In this place, emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties used to perform sacrifices in the Heaven Worship Ceremony.
It is located on the grounds of a beautiful garden where you can see locals dancing, playing tennis or practicing tai-chi.
The park was designed taking into account the difference between Heaven and Earth. The buildings within the garden are higher in the North section symbolizing that Heaven is high and Earth is low.
Circular Mound Altar
Located in the south area. It is an open three-level white stone altar. The most boring in appearance, it was actually the very heart of the Temple where emperors would offer sacrifice to Heaven.
Imperial Vault of Heaven
Located to the North of the Altar, this is a round hall with red walls and blue roof sitting on a two-level marble platform where the Gods’ tablets were kept.
Altar of Prayer for Good Harvests
Located further north and connected to the Imperial Vault of Heaven via the Danbi Bridge.
The biggest and most beautiful building in the complex, this is where emperors held worship ceremonies praying for good weather to benefit the harvest.
It is a round three-level building situated on top of a huge white marble platform.
Palace of Abstinence
Located on the Northwest part of the park , it was a place where the emperor would abstain from food before the Worship Ceremony.
Top Tips Before You Go
- To be able to see the three main temples, you need to purchase a combination ticket. You can get a ticket for the park only, but you won’t get to see any of the temples
- Enter through the West Gate, see the Palace of Abstinence and then go South to visit the temples on a south-north direction (leave the best for last!)
Opening Hours and Admission
Apr-Oct 8:00-17:30hs Park Only: CNY $15.- / Combination: $35.-
Nov-Mar 8:00-17:00hs Park Only: CNY $10.- / Combination: $30.-
Combination tickets sales close between 15:30 and 16:00hs.
To enter the Palace of Abstinence and other buildings within the complex an extra ticket priced CNY $10.- is needed.
Getting There
Subway Line 5 – Tiantan Dongmen Station, Exit A. Walk to the East Gate of the Park.
We actually went by bus because it was easier from our hotel, but we don’t remember which one we took! Hopping on a public bus with locals was a fun experience and we really recommend doing it once. Ask your hotel staff for directions.