Temple of Heaven

building temple of heaven beijing china

With Temple of Heaven being one of the must-sees when visiting Beijing, I of course had it on my list. Therefore I obviously also had high expectation of this temple complex. But when will I learn that some like the mother and some like the daughter, as we say in Norway. Upon entering Tiantan Park, it hit me, I might not have the best experience – there were people in large numbers greeting me. It just proves yet again why I do my best to avoid travelling during summer vacation 🙂 Usually big crowds put a damper on things, but this time they were not the reason why I didn’t find this place very exciting. The three main sights, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar, are all beautiful constructions to have a look at, from the outside. The insides are nice, but very hard to enjoy in the dark. And that’s it. Three structures and you’re done. For once the lack of numbers was a disappointment.

building temple of heaven beijing china

circular mound altar temple of heaven beijing china

10 thoughts on “Temple of Heaven

  1. Was just talking about Beijing this morning. I always appreciate your honest posts, and this one is no different! Thank you for sharing your photos and feelings on #farawayfiles

    1. Thank you! Trying to keeping it real 😉 You’re going? Beijing has some nice spots too 🙂

  2. It’s always interesting when you read an honest account of a traveller’s disappointment. Some things are just overrated and it’s refreshing to have someone admit that. Thanks for sharing with us on #Farawayfiles

  3. I say worth it. Was there August 2005 and it’s the only thing in town I’d return to see. Interesting buildings and temples, but together with the park and trees, and watching the locals hanging out for a chat or a game or to just relax in the shade, it was a very nice experience. Would recommend to a friend – or previous colleague 😉

    1. Neimen! Hei frøken! Så du likte det, du 🙂 Jeg syntes det var ganske blekt, gitt. Min favoritt var Sommerpalasset, selv om regnet høljet ned, og jeg måtte vasse hjem.

  4. LOL. It is crowded most of the year! But then, hope you had a chance to stand in the spot to make your voice heard in the heavens!

    1. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests was packed, and the Imperial Vault of Heaven we could have a look inside through the doorways only. Was not my favourite Beijing spot.

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