Across from the Temple of Heaven lies Xiannongtan, a secret imperial site overlooked by 99% of tourists. Here, emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties offered sacrifices to the god of agriculture and personally tilled the fields—it was here that the folk saying “one mu and three fen of land”…
Last Updated: Jul. 2026 The oldest and largest surviving Tibetan-style stupa in Beijing predates the White Pagoda at Beihai Park by nearly 400 years. Commissioned by Kublai Khan and designed by the Nepalese architect Anige. Admission is 20 yuan (approx. $2.80). Take Exit B at Fuchengmen Station on Subway Line 2,…
When visiting the Temple of Heaven, 90% of people head straight for the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the Circular Mound Altar, snap a few photos, and leave. I, however, prefer to venture into the quiet southwest corner—where a blue glazed-tile palace, the Zhaigong, stands as the only one…
If you’ve already explored the famous Beihai Park in Beijing, admired its white dagoba and vast lake waters, you can keep an eye out for two little-known special gems in the park that are only open at specific times.
On the shores of Shichahai Lake in Beijing stands the Temple of the True Lord of Fire, built by imperial decree—commonly known as the Shichahai Fire God Temple. This Taoist temple boasts a long and rich history and is located right next to the Shichahai Scenic Area.
The Bell and Drum Towers of Beijing, located in the Dongcheng District, collectively refer to two magnificent ancient structures—the Drum Tower and the Bell Tower.
