I love luscious greenery matched with clear blue skies.
I took a trip to the Temple of Heaven (天坛), one of my favourite places in Beijing. One thing that I really dislike about the attractions/places of interest in China, especially Beijing is that they are awfully commercialized nowadays. There are expensive tours, photography booths, vendors and everything just to attract (and sometimes cheat off) uninformed tourists. But I'm glad this place has always remained as a very scenic spot.
The Circular Mound Altar, Imperial Vault of Heaven, Altar of Prayer for Good Harvests are definitely the main spots you should check out inside! Everything about this place feels majestic and holy. It's as if you can almost picture the royals performing those prayers and ceremonies. Apart from the main attractions, this is an ideal place for picnics! If you are visiting during spring or autumn, it's a common sight to see groups of families and friends laying around on the grass patches on a lazy afternoon!
A guided tour is not necessary because there are detailed english translations inside. If you are keen to learn more about Chinese history, or if you do not want to squeeze with the crowd to read the descriptions, you can purchase the Electronic Guide Equipment for 40 rmb (pay 100 rmb, 60 rmb is for deposit) at any of the four gates. It comes in 7 languages, Cantonese, English, Japanese, Korean, French, German and Spanish.
Directions: Take Subway Line 5, get off at Tiantan Dongmen Station, Leave from Exit A and you'll find the East Gate of the Park.
Tel: +86 10 6702 8866Website: http://en.tiantanpark.com/default.aspx
Opening hrs: 06:00-22:00 (scenic areas inside opens from 08:00 - 17:00)
Price: $
Recommended duration of visit: 2hrs (it's a pretty big place)
Review: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. I can't say enough good things about this place!
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