Temple of Heaven guide
Ritual architecture under blue tiles
Built in 1420, the complex follows the old idea of a round heaven and square earth. The circular Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests stands on three white marble terraces beneath a triple blue-tiled roof.
Inside, groups of columns correspond to the four seasons, 12 months and traditional two-hour periods. Continue south along the Danbi Bridge to the Imperial Vault of Heaven, Echo Wall and Circular Mound Altar, where dimensions repeatedly use nine or its multiples.
Arrive early and the park feels different. Local residents sing, play chess and practise tai chi around the Long Corridor before tour groups settle in.
