Temple of Heaven, Beijing

An iconic image of not just Beijing, but China. One glance at this temple complex and there is no mistaking which part of the world that you’re in. And, surrounded by a 267-hectare park, the Temple of Heaven isn’t just for tourists, but is a popular tranquil hangout for locals too. It’s all happening here.

Originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty in 1420 – at the same time as the Forbidden City – this temple complex was where emperors would come to worship when in need of good crops. Comprised of three main parts, it was also a key sacrificial site for Ming and Qing Dynasty rulers who sought divine clearance and atonement for their sins.

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is, for most people, the temple that steals the limelight here. Located in the northern part of the Temple of Heaven park, this altar of worship is as mesmerisingly pretty as it is historically important. Built according to the rigid religious regulations of the time, the incredible symmetry and dazzling blue tiles of this three-tiered, circular building sits on a huge marble platform named the Altar for Grain Prayers.

Other important points of note are the Imperial Vault of Heaven – where you’ll find the complex’ enigmatic Echo Wall – and the Circular Mound Altar which was used to worship during the winter solstice. But more than anything, this is a really beautiful place to aimlessly wander, soaking in the beauty as you go.