Temple of Heaven 天坛

Masterpiece of architecture from the Ming dynasty
Word to the wise: For the best experience possible, enter at the southern gate and wander north through the temple area.

In southern Beijing lies the Temple of Heaven, the construction of which began in 1406, when the Ming and Qing Emperors travelled during annual ceremonies to pray to the heavens for a good harvest.
The complex comprises of a row of magnificent buildings in a north-south line, all extravagantly decorated and each with its own unique ceremonial purpose. The temple lies somewhat removed from the big city bustle and in addition to the incredibly beautiful main building, it's also worth the visit for its expansive and lush park area.

Elderly Chinese find their way to the park to sing, dance and play chess or cards, while younger parkgoers are here from morning to night, practicing yoga, shadow boxing, and playing shuttlecock. The Temple of Heaven can be easily reached by Subway line 5, and getting off at the Tiantan (Temple of Heaven) Station.