Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is large park, with a complex of buildings. The Temple of Heaven was visited by Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for good harvest. Within the park there are three main groups of buildings: the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, The Imperial Vault of Heaven and the Circular Mound Alter.

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is a magnificent triple-level circular building. It was built on three levels of marble stone, where the Emperors prayed for good harvest. The building is completely made of wood, with no nails. The inside of this building was one of the most remarkable we saw during our sight-seeing.

The Imperial Vault of Heaven is also a circular building, similar to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest only smaller.and is surrounded by the Echo Wall.

The Circular Mound alter is an empty circular platform on three levels of marble stone, each decorated with lavishly carved dragons. The center of the alter is called the Heart of Heaven, where the Emperors prayed for favorable weather. Supposedly, the sound of the prayer was reflected by the marble guardrail, which was supposed to help the prayer communicate with Heaven.

Although, much of the grassy area throughout the park is roped off we saw locals flying kites, dancing, doing marital arts and relaxing on benches. This was one of my favorites spots in Beijing.

Today we also went to the Pearl Market. This is indoor madhouse! It is table after table of knick-knacks, souvenirs, knock offs, jewerly and people trying assertively and desperately to get you to buy something (much to their disappointment we left empty handed!). This also a cultural experience as the restrooms only had holes in the ground and no changing table in sight!