Beijing Temple of Heaven Ticket: Your Ultimate Guide

If you are planning a trip to Beijing, the Temple of Heaven should definitely be on your itinerary. Built in the 15th century, the temple was once used as an imperial altar by the Chinese emperors. Today, it is one of the most popular attractions in Beijing and a UNESCO World Heritage site. To save time and avoid the long wait for admission tickets, we recommend pre-booking your passes. Viator offers pre-booked combo admission tickets to the Temple of Heaven, which include access to three different parts of the museum:

Circular Mound Altar

The Circular Mound Altar is a stunning platform made of marble stones. It is surrounded by three tiers of white marble balustrades that symbolize heaven, earth, and the human world. This is where the emperors would come to pray for good harvests.

Imperial Vault of Heaven

The Imperial Vault of Heaven is a small circular building located south of the Circular Mound Altar. It houses a single gilded imperial throne and was once used for private worship by the emperor. The blue roof tiles and decorative paintings inside the building are a must-see for any visitor to the Temple of Heaven.

Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is the centerpiece of the Temple of Heaven. It is a magnificent building with three layers of eaves and a blue roof that symbolizes the color of heaven. Inside, you will find a large wooden table where the emperor would offer sacrifices to the gods for a bountiful harvest.

What’s Included

When you book the Temple of Heaven combo admission tickets through Viator, you will get direct access to all three parts of the museum. There is no need to wait in line to purchase tickets on-site. The pre-booked tickets also include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts at 8:00 AM at your hotel, where you will be picked up by a professional guide. From there, you will be taken to the Temple of Heaven to explore the different sections at your own pace.

What to Expect

Once you are inside the Temple of Heaven, you can spend as much time as you like exploring the grounds. The vast museum complex is filled with beautiful architecture, stunning gardens, and ancient history. Be sure to take your time and appreciate the intricate details of the buildings and decorations.

Food and Drinks

Food and drinks are not included in the tour package. However, there are many restaurants and food vendors in the area where you can grab a bite to eat.

Book Your Tour Now

If you are interested in visiting the Temple of Heaven, we highly recommend pre-booking your tickets through Viator. This will save you time and ensure that you get direct access to all three parts of the museum. To book the tour, click here.

Book Your Tour Now

The Temple of Heaven is a must-visit attraction in Beijing. With its rich history and stunning architecture, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor. By pre-booking your tickets through Viator, you can avoid the long lines and enjoy a hassle-free experience. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience – book your tour today!

FAQ About Beijing, China

If you are planning a trip to Beijing, you might have some questions about what to expect during your visit. Here are some frequently asked questions about this vibrant city in China.

1. What is the best time to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, and winter (December to February) can be very cold with occasional snow. However, if you can tolerate the weather extremes, there are still many things to see and do in Beijing year-round.

2. What is the currency used in Beijing?

The currency used in Beijing is the Chinese yuan (CNY). It is recommended to exchange your currency into yuan for your trip, as many places in China do not accept foreign currency. ATMs are widely available in Beijing, and most major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.

3. How do I get around Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system, including subway, bus, and taxi. The subway is a convenient and inexpensive way to get around the city, with signs and announcements in English. Taxis are also readily available, but make sure to have your destination written in Chinese characters to avoid any language barrier issues.

4. What are some must-see attractions in Beijing?

There are many famous landmarks and attractions to see in Beijing, including:

• The Great Wall of China: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in China. There are several sections of the wall that are accessible from Beijing.
• The Forbidden City: A former imperial palace and now a museum with over 9,000 rooms and artifacts dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.
• Tiananmen Square: A large public square in the heart of Beijing, known for its historical and political significance.
• The Temple of Heaven: A complex of religious buildings and gardens where emperors once prayed for good harvests and peace.
• The Summer Palace: A vast imperial garden with palaces, temples, lakes, and pavilions.

5. What should I eat in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its delicious cuisine, including:

• Peking duck: A roasted duck dish with crispy skin and tender meat, often served with pancakes, scallions, and sauce.
• Jianbing: A popular breakfast street food consisting of a savory crepe filled with egg, crispy fried dough, lettuce, and sauce.
• Hot pot: A communal meal where diners cook sliced meat, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering pot of broth.
• Dumplings: A staple of Chinese cuisine, Beijing dumplings are filled with pork or vegetables and are often served steamed or fried.
• Bingtanghulu: A snack made of candied fruits on a stick, commonly sold by street vendors in Beijing.

6. What is the etiquette for visiting Beijing?

When visiting Beijing, it is important to be respectful of local customs and etiquette. Here are some tips:

• Always greet people with “ni hao” (hello) and “xiexie” (thank you).
• Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
• When visiting temples or other religious sites, dress modestly and remove your hat.
• Do not touch people’s heads, as this is considered rude in Chinese culture.
• Respect queue lines and do not push or cut in front of others.

7. Is it safe to travel to Beijing?

Beijing is generally a safe place to travel, with low levels of violent crime. However, travelers should still take precautions to ensure their safety, such as:

• Avoiding areas with high levels of pollution.
• Being aware of your surroundings and belongings, especially in tourist areas.
• Protecting yourself from scams and pickpockets.
• Following local laws and regulations.

8. What is the language spoken in Beijing?

The official language spoken in Beijing is Mandarin Chinese. However, many younger generations are learning English, and some signs and menus in tourist areas are also in English. It is always helpful to learn some basic phrases in Chinese before your trip to help you communicate with locals.

9. Is tipping expected in Beijing?

Tipping is not expected in Beijing, as it is not a common practice in China. However, it is becoming more common in tourist areas, and tipping a small amount for exceptional service is appreciated.

10. What souvenirs should I buy in Beijing?

Beijing has many unique souvenirs to take home, including:

• Cloisonné: Intricate enamel artwork on metal, often seen on vases, bowls, and jewelry.
• Kites: Traditional Chinese kites in various shapes and sizes.
• Tea and teaware: China is known for its tea, and Beijing has many shops selling different varieties of tea and teaware.
• Calligraphy: Beautifully written characters or paintings on rice paper or silk.
• Silk products: China is famous for its silk, and Beijing has many shops selling silk scarves, clothes, and accessories.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a fascinating city with a rich history, delicious cuisine, and many attractions to see and explore. By following these tips and being respectful of local customs and etiquette, you can make the most of your trip to this exciting destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Beijing

Beijing is one of the most exciting cities to visit in China. It is rich in history, culture, and has a variety of attractions for tourists. From the world-famous Great Wall to the Forbidden City, there is something for everyone. Below is a guide on how to spend your time in Beijing:

1. Visit the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is one of the seven wonders of the world, and it attracts millions of tourists every year. The wall was built over 2000 years ago and spans more than 13,000 miles. Although it is impossible to walk the entire wall, there are certain sections that are open to tourists. Some of the popular sections include Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling. Each section offers a unique experience, but all provide incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

How to get there:

The best way to get to the Great Wall is by hiring a tour guide or taking a bus. You can take a bus from Deshengmen Bus Station or Dongzhimen Bus Station. The buses run daily and are relatively cheap. Hiring a tour guide is also a great option, as they can provide you with more insight on the history and significance of the wall.

2. Explore the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is located in the center of Beijing and spans over 720,000 square meters. The palace has 980 buildings, and it is an excellent example of traditional Chinese architecture. Some of the notable buildings include the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Palace of Heavenly Purity.

How to get there:

You can take the subway to Tiananmen East Station or Tiananmen West Station. You can also take a taxi or walk, depending on your location.

3. Visit the Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings located in southeastern Beijing. It was used by the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties to pray for good harvests. The most iconic building in the complex is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, which has three layers of blue-tiled roofs.

How to get there:

You can take the subway to Tiantandongmen Station or Tiantan Station. You can also take a taxi or walk, depending on your location.

4. Walk through Houhai Lake

Houhai Lake is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It is surrounded by traditional hutongs and has a variety of restaurants and bars. You can rent a paddleboat and explore the lake while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

How to get there:

You can take the subway to Ping’anli Station or Shichahai Station. You can also take a taxi or walk, depending on your location.

5. Shop at the Silk Market

The Silk Market is a popular shopping destination in Beijing. You can find a variety of silk products, including clothing, handbags, and scarves. The market also has a section for electronics, where you can find a variety of gadgets at a fraction of the cost.

How to get there:

You can take the subway to Yong’anli Station or take a taxi. The market is located in the Chaoyang District.

6. Enjoy the local cuisine

Beijing is famous for its cuisine, and there is a variety of dishes to try. Some of the most popular dishes include Peking duck, hot pot, and jianbing. You can enjoy these dishes at traditional restaurants or explore the street food scene.

How to find local food:

You can find local food at traditional restaurants or explore the street food scene. Some of the popular street food markets include Wangfujing Snack Street and Qianmen Street.

7. Visit the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a palace complex located in the Haidian District of Beijing. It was used by the emperors of the Qing dynasty as a summer retreat. The palace has a beautiful garden and a large lake, and it is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

How to get there:

You can take the subway to Beigongmen Station or take a taxi. The palace is located in the Haidian District.

8. Explore the 798 Art District

The 798 Art District is a contemporary art district located in northeastern Beijing. It features galleries, cafes, and boutiques, and it is a great place to explore the local art scene.

How to get there:

You can take the subway to Jiangtai Station or Sanyuanqiao Station. You can also take a taxi or walk, depending on your location.

Book Your Tour Now

Beijing is a city with a rich history and culture, and there is no shortage of things to do. Whether you want to explore the ancient sites or enjoy the local cuisine, Beijing has something for everyone. By following this guide, you can make the most out of your time in this exciting city.