Imperial Vault of Heaven

Introducing Imperial Vault of Heaven

Located north of the Circular Mound Altar in the Temple of Heaven Park in Dongcheng District, Beijing, the Imperial Vault of Heaven (Huangqiongyu) was built in the ninth year of the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty. It houses the altar's sacrificial tablets and the storage of ancestral tablets. Its gilded, single-eaved, blue-tiled, round, pointed roof features a central, gilded dragon caisson, a golden double-dragon ceiling, golden pillars inlaid with gilded lotus flowers, and interior and exterior paintings of golden dragons and imperial seals, creating a magnificent and solemn atmosphere. Two side halls, five bays wide each, each feature a single-eaved, hip-and-gable roof. Outside the main hall are the famous Echo Wall, the Three-tone Stone, and the Dialogue Stone. The famous Echo Wall refers to the circular exterior wall of the Huangqiongyu.

As one of the landmark buildings in the Temple of Heaven, the Imperial Vault of Heaven has been photographed by many photographers. It is a great place to take a photo.

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 attraction combo ticket

Attraction opening hours

06:00-22:00(April 1st-October 31st)

06:30-22:00 (November 1st to March 31st of the following year)

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Most Popular FAQs for Imperial Vault of Heaven

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

The Imperial Vault of Heaven was built during the Ming Dynasty and is part of the larger Temple of Heaven complex, where emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties performed rituals to ensure a good harvest. The vault holds the tablets that represent the gods of heaven, and it is considered a vital place for Chinese cultural and religious practices.

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

The Imperial Vault of Heaven is located in the southeastern part of Beijing's Temple of Heaven Park. It is accessible by the Beijing Metro Line 5 (Tiantan Dongmen Station) or a short walk from the main entrance of the Temple of Heaven complex. Taxis and buses are also convenient options to reach the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Imperial Vault of Heaven is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, especially during the spring and autumn months, to avoid crowds and enjoy the mild weather.

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

The entrance fee for the Temple of Heaven complex, including the Imperial Vault of Heaven, is around 15-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park, and it is also possible to buy tickets online through various ticketing platforms.

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

Tickets do not typically need to be booked in advance, but it is recommended to do so during peak tourist seasons or public holidays to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to fully explore the Imperial Vault of Heaven and its immediate surroundings. For a more comprehensive visit to the entire Temple of Heaven complex, plan for 2-3 hours.

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

• The Vault itself, known for its elegant blue-tiled roof and circular structure.
• The nearby Echo Wall, which is famous for its acoustic properties.
• The surrounding centuries-old cypress trees and tranquil park areas.
• The nearby Circular Mound Altar, another significant site within the complex.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese and English. Audio guides are also available for rent, with options in multiple languages, including English, French, German, and others.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The best photography spots include the Imperial Vault itself, the large surrounding park, and the Circular Mound Altar.
• For wide-angle shots, the elevated viewpoints within the park offer excellent views of the complex.
• The Echo Wall is another unique spot for taking photos, particularly for those interested in acoustics and symmetry.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the Temple of Heaven's main entrance and walk towards the Imperial Vault of Heaven, exploring the structure and its surrounding gardens. From there, head towards the Echo Wall and Circular Mound Altar. Finish by strolling through the expansive park grounds.

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

Night visits are not typically available at the Imperial Vault of Heaven, but the Temple of Heaven Park is beautiful during the day, especially when the lighting conditions are ideal for photography. Special tours may be available during cultural festivals or certain holidays.

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

The Temple of Heaven can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings on weekdays, especially in spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the park is less busy.

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

There are toilets, rest areas, and water fountains throughout the park. Small food stalls and souvenir shops are available around the main entrance. For more extensive food options, visitors can find restaurants in the surrounding areas of Beijing.

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

The Imperial Vault of Heaven and its surrounding areas are generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with paved paths and rest areas available throughout the complex. However, some sections may have stairs that could pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance and for souvenirs, but mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area. Credit cards may be accepted in some larger establishments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Small restaurants and cafes are located outside the Temple of Heaven, offering a variety of Chinese food and beverages.
• For more dining options, there are larger restaurants around the vicinity of the Temple of Heaven Park.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food options can also be found in the surrounding areas of Beijing, especially in districts with a significant Muslim population.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several mid-range hotels near the Temple of Heaven, such as the Temple of Heaven Hotel and the Beijing Hwa Hotel.
• Luxury options like the Grand Hyatt Beijing are located a short drive away in the city center.

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

• The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are nearby and easily accessible by taxi or public transport.
• The Summer Palace, Lama Temple, and Beijing National Stadium are also popular landmarks within reach for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are available around the Temple of Heaven, selling items such as Chinese crafts, tea sets, traditional clothing, and cultural artifacts like jade and silk goods.

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

• Taxis, buses, and the Beijing Metro (Line 5) are convenient options for continuing your journey after visiting the Temple of Heaven.
• For tourists heading to the city center or other attractions, taking the metro or a taxi is the most efficient choice.