Danbi Bridge

Introducing Danbi Bridge

Danbi Bridge, also known as Haibian Avenue, connects the south brick gate of the Altar of Prayer for Good Harvests and the South Gate of Heaven within the Temple of Heaven in Beijing. 20 meters wide, 4 meters high, and 200 meters long, it's a large brick and stone platform, known as a bridge due to the two hollow culverts beneath. Previously, only the emperor, princes, and ministers could walk on the bridge during celestial sacrifices. It's considered one of the Temple of Heaven's iconic structures. It's located in front of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the only way to enter from the south gate of the Temple of Heaven Park. Walking north, the bridge ascends higher and higher, creating a sense of celestial presence. The scenery here is beautiful and perfect for photographing.

The Danbi Bridge rises gradually from south to north, symbolizing a gradual ascent. The central stone path is called the "Shinto," where the spirits of heaven and earth walked during rituals. Flanking the Shinto path are the "Imperial Path" on the left, for the emperor, and the "Wang Path" on the right, for ministers. The design is ingenious and magnificent. It could be said that in the eyes of the ancients, this was a path to heaven.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 20 minutes

Tickets

Included in the ticket price for the Temple of Heaven Park.

Attraction opening hours

Included in the Temple of Heaven Park scenic area, the scenic area is open from 6:30-21:00 in the off-season and 6:00-21:00 in the peak season, and the park is closed at 22:00.

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Most Popular FAQs for Danbi Bridge

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

Danbi Bridge, built during the Ming Dynasty, is one of Beijing's ancient bridges, originally designed for ceremonial purposes and connecting various key areas. The bridge is part of a cultural heritage, often associated with the traditional architectural beauty of ancient Beijing.

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

Danbi Bridge is located in central Beijing, near historical sites such as the Temple of Heaven. You can reach the bridge by metro (Line 5, Tiantan Dongmen Station), bus (Line 34), or by taxi. It's also walkable from nearby attractions like the Temple of Heaven.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Danbi Bridge is an open-air site and can be visited at any time during daylight. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

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

There is no entrance fee for Danbi Bridge. It is part of a public park, so visitors can walk across the bridge freely without the need for tickets.

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

No booking is required to visit Danbi Bridge as it is a free public site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Danbi Bridge and its surroundings typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend photographing or exploring nearby cultural sites.

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

• The bridge itself, with its intricate stonework and scenic views of the surrounding area.
• The nearby Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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

Guided tours are available in nearby attractions like the Temple of Heaven, but there are no specific tours for Danbi Bridge. However, you may find audio guides for the Temple of Heaven in multiple languages including English and Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• On top of the bridge, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding park and temple grounds.
• From the entrance to the bridge, framing the structure against the skyline or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

It’s recommended to start at the Temple of Heaven, explore its grounds, and then visit Danbi Bridge to experience the cultural significance of both sites. You can spend some time photographing the bridge and then walk around the surrounding gardens.

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

Danbi Bridge is not typically open at night for special light shows. However, the area around the bridge, including the Temple of Heaven, is often beautifully lit at night, providing a unique atmosphere for evening visits.

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

Danbi Bridge is typically not overcrowded, but it can get busier on weekends and during holidays. Weekday mornings are the least crowded times to visit.

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

There are public restrooms near the Temple of Heaven, as well as nearby cafes and food vendors. Water fountains are also available around the park area.

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

Yes, Danbi Bridge is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The surrounding park is equipped with ramps and accessible paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Since there is no entrance fee for Danbi Bridge, you do not need cash to visit. However, nearby shops and restaurants may accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay, as well as credit cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are small local cafes near the Temple of Heaven where you can find traditional Chinese snacks and beverages.
• Nearby, you can also visit restaurants offering Chinese and international cuisine in the Wangfujing area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in local restaurants, especially near the Temple of Heaven. Halal food is also available at specialized eateries in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotel Jen Beijing, located near the Temple of Heaven.
• Renaissance Beijing Wangfujing Hotel, offering convenient access to the site and nearby attractions.

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

• The Temple of Heaven, one of Beijing's most famous landmarks.
• The Forbidden City, located a short distance from the bridge.
• Tiantan Park, a large park that is ideal for a relaxing stroll.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops around the Temple of Heaven selling traditional Chinese crafts, including silk goods, ceramics, and tea sets. Near Danbi Bridge, you can find small street vendors selling souvenirs related to Beijing's cultural history.

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

• The metro is a convenient option for traveling to other parts of the city, with Line 5 running nearby.
• For a more scenic route, consider taking a taxi or a bicycle to explore nearby landmarks such as the Forbidden City.