In centuries past, the Emperor of China had many responsibilities. One of the most important was ensuring a good harvest. Twice a year, he ventured from the Imperial Palace, in the Forbidden City, to the Temple of Heaven for an elaborate ceremony that included fasting, the sacrifice of a calf, heavy prayer, music, and dancing. He was escorted by princes, soldiers, musicians, and others of royal rank, but commoners were forbidden to witness the procession, or enter the temple.
Today, the magnificent structure, which lies a mile and a half from the St. Regis Beijing, is open to all, and a visit to the city is not complete without a journey up to the Altar to Heaven, through the Imperial Vault, past the Echo Wall, along the 360-meter long passage, to the glorious Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Completed in 1420, the hall was constructed of wood without the use of a single nail. It burned down in 1889, was quickly reconstructed, and recently underwent a multi-million dollar facelift in preparation for this year's Olympic Games. Its three circular tiers are supported by twenty-eight pillars, each adorned with elaborate designs, and created from a single tree trunk. This majestic chamber inspires serenity with its vividly painted walls, and design based on the principles of numerology. But outside the hall, the atmosphere is just as enchanting. Lush parklands surround the temple enhancing the notion of "heaven on earth." Most every day the people of Beijing gather here to practice Tai Chi, play a graceful, dance-like game with paddles, or simply sit in the soft grass and sing the transporting folk songs of this ancient land.
