The Temple of Heaven is the the site of the most important of the four sacrificial altars of Imperial China. The Emperor came here to sacrifice to the god of heaven and pray for a good harvest.
What was once a closed-off area accessable only to a few, is now one of Beijing's prized, and sorely needed, green lungs. It is a wonderful place to spend the afternoon. It has something for everyone, teahouses, history, people watching, and a playground. The through ticket costs 30RMB and is a good value, as it includes entrance to the park as well as entrance to the hall of prayer for good harvest,the round altar, the echo wall, and the imperial vault of heaven. Entrance to just the park, costs 10RMB. The park is considered a must visit among those in know about China.