Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

Introducing the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

Located in the Temple of Heaven Park in Dongcheng District, Beijing, the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is a circular building with a diameter of 32.72 meters. Construction began in 1420, the 18th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, also known as the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, is the main structure of the Temple of Heaven. It was the place where the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties prayed for a good harvest in the first month of spring. It is a magnificent, three-story, double-eaved circular hall with a gilded roof, blue tiles, red pillars, and a magnificent, painted facade. Designed in accordance with the philosophy of "respecting Heaven and worshipping the gods," the hall's circular shape symbolizes the roundness of the heavens, and the blue tiles symbolize the blue sky.

As the main structure of the Temple of Heaven, it rises from the ground and towers into the sky, magnificent and majestic. It is also a favorite place of many China-TravelNote. Its majestic figure against the blue sky often appears in the lenses of many photographers and has become one of the symbols of Beijing.

Climate and best time to travel

North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

20 yuan, free for all tickets

Attraction opening hours

Peak season 8:00-17:30, off-season 8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, built in 1420 during the Ming Dynasty, was the ceremonial site where emperors prayed for good harvests each spring. It symbolizes the harmony between heaven and earth and represents ancient Chinese cosmology. As the most iconic structure in the Temple of Heaven complex, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural marvel known for its wooden construction without a single nail.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Location: Inside the Temple of Heaven Park, Tiantan Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing.
• By Metro: Take Line 5 to Tiantan Dongmen Station (Exit A), then walk 10 minutes west to the East Gate of the Temple of Heaven.
• By Bus: Routes 36, 41, 43, 60, and 525 stop near the East Gate.
• By Taxi: Around 10 minutes from Tiananmen Square or Wangfujing area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Temple of Heaven Park: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last entry 8:00 PM).
• Main attractions, including the Hall: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closes earlier in winter).
• Best time: Morning for fewer crowds and soft lighting; spring and autumn for comfortable weather.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Ticket (including Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests): ¥34 (peak season), ¥28 (off-season).
• Park-only ticket: ¥15 (peak), ¥10 (off-season).
• Tickets available online via official WeChat mini-program or at park ticket offices.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not mandatory but recommended during holidays and weekends. Booking 1–2 days ahead online ensures smoother entry.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Spend about 1–1.5 hours to explore the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and nearby structures, or 2–3 hours for the entire Temple of Heaven complex.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests itself, with its magnificent triple-gabled blue roof.
• The Altar Platform and marble staircase leading to the hall.
• Detailed interior decorations depicting heavenly motifs and imperial symbols.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

• Audio guides available in multiple languages (English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, Spanish).
• English-speaking guides can be hired at the park entrance or booked through tour platforms.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the front courtyard for a symmetrical view of the Hall.
• The elevated altar area for panoramic shots of the structure and surrounding park.
• The park’s central axis, capturing the Hall framed by ancient trees.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Enter through the East Gate → Visit the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests → Walk south along the Sacred Way → See the Imperial Vault of Heaven → Continue to the Circular Mound Altar.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No night tours or light shows inside the hall; the Temple of Heaven closes before nightfall. However, the exterior area is beautifully lit at dusk in some seasons.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Most crowded: Weekends, public holidays, and mornings (8:00–10:00 AM).
• Least crowded: Weekdays after 3:00 PM or early mornings before 8:00 AM.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Clean restrooms and drinking water stations located near all major gates.
• Snack kiosks and small cafés available inside the park.
• Benches and shaded rest areas along walking paths.
• Gift shops selling souvenirs near the North and East Gates.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, most paths are flat and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. There are ramps around the hall area for easier access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. Some souvenir stalls may prefer cash, so carrying small bills is useful.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Inside: Small snack bars near the East and North Gates.
• Nearby: Temple of Heaven Restaurant (Chinese cuisine) and Starbucks near Tiantan Dongmen metro exit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian dishes available at nearby local restaurants.
• Halal options can be found along Tiantan Road and at nearby Muslim eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• New World Beijing Hotel
• Waldorf Astoria Beijing
• Beijing Dongfang Hotel
• Novotel Beijing Xinqiao

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Tiananmen Square
• The Forbidden City
• Wangfujing Street
• Qianmen Street

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Yes, shops sell miniature temple models, postcards, jade ornaments, and silk items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Take Metro Line 5 from Tiantan Dongmen to reach central Beijing or transfer to Lines 1 and 2 for other major attractions.
• Taxis and Didi (ride-hailing) are convenient for short city transfers.