Temple of Heaven

We took the subway to the Temple of Heaven, in Beijing. On the pathway, there was a man doing the most exquisite calligraphy, with a huge brush that he dipped in water. The water eventually evaporates, but he didn't seem to matter. We loved seeing his creations, ephemeral as they were...



This temple was surrounded by huge green space and people were using it. We met a group of ribbon swirling women.




And Mia joined their group for awhile...



This is a group who did athletic moves while balancing a handball on their rackets.




And there were groups performing live music...



And singing...




In fact, Aaron coined this the "Temple of Heaven...for old people". There was such a sense of community in this park, and most participants were over the age of 60 (not that 60 is particularily old, nowadays). It truly was a heavenly place for Chinese to gather.

Looking up at the covered pathway leading to the Temple of Heaven.



The Emporers of the Qing and Ming Dynasties used to come here to ask God for a bountiful harvest. They would pack up their retinue and proceed to this temple on winter solstice. They abstained from eating meat to appease the gods (sounds like my husband).

This is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. This building is completely made of wood, no nails.




This is one of the three main halls. I loved the brilliant cobalt blue roof tiles.



Mia and Rhetto-kun, in deep contemplation...