The Temple of Heaven doesn't look like any other temples I've seen. It's the only circular temple I know of. The guide told us loads of data about the reason why it is circular and why the Temple holds such importance but I forgot about it. So at @ m1m1, if you're reading this, better listen to the tour guide. Heehee.
All I remember are these tidbits: 1) it's round because it represents heaven; 2) it has something to do with good harvest and prayers; 3) the emperors of the olden days used to visit the temple, which ones I forgot; and, 4) it's a UNESCO heritage site.
We came to the temple through a gate, this gate:
And according to this map, this is the North Gate.
I immediately fell in love with the temple grounds. There are trees, and more trees everywhere. Leave me in a piece of land with tree-lined paths, manicured lawns, plants and flowers carefully tended and I'd be a happy gal.
I was walking way behind my friends and the guide because I was busy snapping pictures of the surroundings. It was almost 4 p.m. and the sun was about to set in a short while. And so, the beauty of the almost setting sun and the faint glow that it cast made the Temple even more beautiful and divine.
There's a mini-museum inside with a small scale Temple of Heaven as well as photos.
The guide told us she's going to show us something interesting. Guess what it was? People playing cards at the Long Corridor.
I really, love this photo. It's kinda serene and calming, but there's a hint of the cold weather and loneliness.
Winter's almost here...
