The Taoist architecture of the entire temple is very much based on the symbolism and numerology. All the structures of the temple are round which symbolizes the sky while all the axes are square and flat symbolizing the earth which is a key factor that illustrates cultural and religious beliefs. And especially the roofs of the main buildings are covered with blue tiles representing the sky and the heaven and their golden yellow colored elements reflect the emperor and Buddhism.
The Altar of Heaven (Yuan Qiu Tan), which is one of the three main constructions of the complex, is where the three tired platform of 5 meters height is to be found which is made of white marble. It has been built in 1530 as the place where the emperor and others worship heaven during the winter. What is numerological about the structure is that the number of stones mostly placed in the tires happens to be nine which is the highest value digit and which represent the emperor. The majestic Hall of Prayer (Qinian Dian) is located in the north end of the complex which consists of three round stages made of wood. It has also been built on a three tired marble platform that is 6 meters high. The hall is 32 meters high from its platform and the what’s amazing about it is that no nail have been used for its construction. Inside the hall 28 single tree trunk-pillars can be seen and there are four posts which symbolizes the four seasons.
The Echo Wall and the Imperial Vault of Heaven is found in the center of north south axis of the complex. The Imperial Vault is surrounded by the Echo Wall and having the round shape, it resembles the Hall of prayers. It is almost impossible to count the number of people who visit the Temple Of Heaven daily. It has been a major destination of tourists especially when it comes to cultural and historical exploration in China.
Temple of Heaven is just one remarkable landmark among the vast number of attractions in this historic city. Accommodation in and around this magnificent city can be found easily as a number of Beijing luxury hotels such as Raffles Beijing offer elegant service and comforts boastful as the city itself.