The Temple of Heaven

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On October 15, 2010, in Beijing, Cool Places, Must See Attractions, by Charlotte

Temple Of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven Is situated in the southeastern part of Beijing and can be easily accessed my the Metro system however tours are available to be booked in advance at China Tours. The Temple of Heaven is not that big so I would only suggest putting aside 45mins at the most to complete.

Once inside there is a small enrty fee of about 25 RMB which covers the gardens and the temple. There is a very pleasant walk through beautifully presrved gardens, which are abundent in local chinese people playing an array of card ,dice games and just relaxing its very interesting to see. The excitement really began way before we even reached the Temple as we stumbled across 6 elderly Chinese men singing in the most amazing voices, they all looked really happy and welcomed us to come and sit with them it was like a mini opera in the park. Every time I looked around I saw more and more chinese people coming to join in, until it was a choir 15 people strong all singing at the top of there voices this was truly astounding it really made my day!

The most amazing Singers

We finally made it through the main gate up to the temple and could se the temple standing mighty in the background with two large halls either side. The temple itself was very striking with a vivid blue base and gold top glistening in the sun some say it looks like a blue umbrella with a gold head. The main temple or The imperial Vault of Heavn to give it its full title is built from timber and bricks the vaults was built to place the memorial tables of god. Big white marble railings surround which make it look even more magnificent. Although your not permitted to go inside this venue the door are open so you can have a look in. The best time of day to visit this place is late afternoon because its really pretty to watch the sunset behind the temple.

Another interesting tip that you might want to do: If you and a friend stand at the east and the west roots of the wall and whisper a word, then the friend opposite will hear clearly what you say. Crazy isn’t it?

A big tip for and westerners who go to the temple ….. do not sit down!! This may sound very strange but there is a very good reason take note of the following story: After a brisk walk round the temple I decided to take a quick sit down on some steps outside almost immediately a chinese person came over and requested to take my photo I sheepishly agreed, but soon after wished I hadn’t because a lot of other chinese people caught on to this and suddenly there was a group of 20 people waiting to take photo’s of me or with me it was crazy. I was getting hugs off little kids mum’s grandparents it was one of the most bizarre things that has ever happened to me!