Temple of Heaven Echo Wall

Introducing the Temple of Heaven Echo Wall

Located in Beijing's Temple of Heaven Park, the Echo Wall forms the circular perimeter wall of the park's main building, the Imperial Vault of Heaven. Clad in polished bricks from Linqing, Shandong Province, the wall is topped with blue glazed tiles. Due to its perfectly regular curvature and smooth surface, the wall acts as an excellent reflector for sound waves, which continuously bounce along its surface. Visitors standing near the wall can hear conversations from across the room at a 180-degree angle.

If two people stand against the wall behind the east and west side halls, respectively, and one person speaks to the north, the sound waves will be refracted along the wall, traveling a hundred or two hundred meters to the other side. The two people's voices echo, and the sound is long and fascinating. During holidays, the Temple of Heaven is crowded, and the flow of people is mainly concentrated near the Echo Wall. The lines are very long, and too many people will not be able to hear the sound effectively.

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 about 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the Temple of Heaven Park ticket

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Temple of Heaven Echo Wall

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

The Echo Wall, part of the Temple of Heaven complex in Beijing, is famous for its remarkable acoustics. Originally built in the 15th century during the Ming Dynasty, it was designed to allow sound to travel long distances, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth.

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

The Echo Wall is located inside the Temple of Heaven Park in Beijing, near the central area of the city. It can be accessed by metro (Line 5, Tiantan Dongmen Station), bus, or taxi. Walking from the metro station takes about 5 minutes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Temple of Heaven, including the Echo Wall, is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays to avoid crowds.

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

Entrance to the Temple of Heaven costs approximately 15 RMB for the park area, and 34 RMB for the temple area. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via the official site.

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

Booking in advance is not necessary unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Tickets can be bought on the day of your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Temple of Heaven complex, including time spent at the Echo Wall and the surrounding park areas.

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

The Echo Wall, the Circular Mound Altar, and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests are must-see highlights. The Echo Wall itself, with its unique sound reflection, is one of the most famous features.

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

Guided tours and audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and other major languages. You can rent an audio guide at the entrance or join a guided group tour.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The Echo Wall and the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests are excellent photo spots. Also, the surrounding park offers beautiful views of the ancient trees and the iconic architecture of the temple complex.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the South Gate, explore the Echo Wall, then move on to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Don’t miss the Circular Mound Altar, and finish by strolling through the park to enjoy the natural beauty.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at the Echo Wall, but special cultural events or performances may occasionally take place in the surrounding park during the day.

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

The Temple of Heaven can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Early mornings on weekdays are the best times to avoid large crowds.

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

There are rest areas and toilets within the complex. Some food vendors are available near the park entrance, but there are no large restaurants or shops within the Temple of Heaven itself.

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

The Temple of Heaven is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and paved paths leading to most areas. However, the terrain can be uneven in some spots, so a bit of care is needed for those with mobility challenges.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in Beijing and can be used for entry fees and purchases within the complex.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside the Temple of Heaven park, but nearby areas offer a range of Chinese and international restaurants. Look for eateries around the East Gate of the park or in the surrounding streets.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be found in the surrounding districts, especially near Muslim communities in Beijing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include the Park Plaza Beijing East, Hotel Nikko New Century Beijing, and other budget hotels in the vicinity of the Temple of Heaven.

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

Nearby attractions include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Pearl Market. All are within a short drive or metro ride from the Temple of Heaven.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are several souvenir shops near the entrance selling traditional Chinese items such as jade, silk, handicrafts, and postcards.

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

From the Temple of Heaven, you can easily continue your trip via taxi, bus, or the Beijing Metro (Line 5). Many attractions are also within walking distance, such as the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.