One day essence tour of the architectural culture of three major religious temples

Culture and History tour in Beijing

Tour Price : $134-180 Duration : 6-7 hours Languages: enghish, chinese

The Temple of Heaven is China's largest and best-preserved Ming and Qing era building complex for heaven-worshiping ceremonies. Its architectural and landscape design exhibits the ancient Chinese worldview, making it a masterpiece of imperial architecture for ceremonial worship in ancient China and a carrier of national heaven-worshiping rituals and cultural traditions of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple) (雍和宫) is the largest lamasery in Beijing. The temple is more like an imperial palace, featuring yellow gilded tiles and red walls enclosing the whole architectural complex. It harmoniously blends the architectural styles of the Han, Manchu, Mongolian and Tibetan ethnic groups.

The temple enshrines Confucius, an ancient Chinese thinker, educator and cultural colossus of worldwide prestige. It commenced in the 6th Year (1302) of Yuan’s Dade Reign and ended in the 10th Year (1306). In the 9th Year (1530) of Jiajing reign of the Ming dynasty, the Chongshengci (Shrine of Sage Worship) was erected to worship five generations of the Clan, in particular Confucius himself. Later Dachengdian (Hall of Great Achievement) got expanded when it came to the 32nd Year (1906) of Guangxu reign in Qing Dynasty. From then on, the temple has taken on a present look. For more than 700 years, it witnessed to how the rulers in the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties worshipped Confucius, preached Confucian teaching and spread the literary tradition. In this way, it grew into a sanctuary in the hearts of all feudal scholars

The Guozijian (Imperial College) was the highest school and educational administration institution established by the state during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, also known as "National Academy".The Imperial College not only accommodated students of all nationalities, but also foreign students. It had played a positive role in cultivating talents of various nationalities in China and promoting cultural exchanges between China and foreign countries. Its main building is still well preserved after more than 700 years, and is the only well-preserved site of the highest school in ancient times. It is famous for its long history, unique architectural style and profound cultural connotations.

Experience the dynamic day of hutong life in old Beijing, and learn about the essence of the three major religions in China.

Additional information