Temple of Heaven Park and Sacred Architecture Walk
Greet your courteous guide in your hotel's lobby at your preferred time, then head directly to the Temple of Heaven by subway or taxi at your own expense.
Upon arrival, first stroll around the park to see Beijing's elderly enjoying their exercises, dances, and martial arts. Your tour guide will explain retirement in China and the daily lives of its older citizens. Feel free to ask questions if you have any.
Move on to the 15th-century Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. The whole building was constructed without a single nail and is a masterpiece of wood-frame construction. Inside the hall, there is no beam, but there are 28 Phoebe columns and 36 pieces of interconnected squared rafters. These large columns have different symbolic meanings, and you will learn all about them from your knowledgeable tour guide.
Continue to visit a museum to gain a deeper understanding of this impressive building.
Stroll along the Danbi Bridge and learn the stories of the 9-Dragon Juniper, a 500-year-old tree resembling climbing dragons.
Next, test how the echo works at the Echo Wall Complex, and later visit the Imperial Vault of Heaven, where Ming- and Qing-era emperors worshipped heaven during the winter solstice.
Listen to illuminating commentary from your guide as you stroll to the Circular Mound Altar, where sacrifices were offered to the gods.
Your tour ends at the South Gate. Your tour guide will help you find a taxi to your next destination at your own cost.
Please note that this tour does not run on Monday, since the museums are not open on Monday.
