We did not expect the magnificent site and did not even have any idea of it once we walked through the first entrance gate. When we first entered, there was a huge courtyard / gathering area. The ground was like marble tile. There were many people all over the area. Our guide, Cindy Lee, told us that many of the people were retired and that they come here every day because they do not have anything else to do.
We were amazed and after watching the different groups of people for a while, we felt like we could come here every day too to pass the time. There were groups of people writing Chinese calligraphy characters on the ground using a small bucket of water and a large sponge-tipped stick. It was quite something!
The man here even eventually allowed Brynn to give it a try and she "wrote" her name in Chinese and English.
There were other groups of people exercising and practicing martial arts. One group of people who were at least 60 years old were dancing and they were having a wonderful time. They would even ask passersby to join in the dancing.
The next group of people were playing games of 'shuttlecock' and 'Chinese badminton'. This was very fun to watch and then we were even given the opportunity to play along.
The shuttlecock is a few small, weighted discs bound together and then several colorful feathers protruding from the center of the discs. You play it by volleying it off of the ankles or feet. This is similar to the game westerners know as "hacky-sac".
We were able to enjoy the day playing these games with our new friends, the Bachelders.
Molly was so excited to see 'Chinese Badminton' and she was able to join in quite quickly. The gentleman who played with her was quite impressed with her ability.
We could see the Temple of Heaven being a wonderful place to spend all day, with a picnic lunch. There was so much to see and do and it was quite interesting watching the Chinese visitors and to observe their customs and acts of belief related to the various areas within the temple grounds.
After we went through much of the Temple of Heaven buildings, we exited through the North gate. As we were exiting we came upon many groups of people playing card games and Chinese board games. The people were leisurely enjoying themselves and each other's company. It was a lovely sight.
My favorite part of the day happened next!! I was in my own personal 'temple of heaven' ... as we were taken to a beautiful Tea House where we were given a demonstration and tasting of various teas. It was wonderful and I could have stayed there all day.
The building was traditional Chinese architecture and it was filled with beautiful artwork and handcrafted items.
Isn't it beautiful?? So many lovely pieces ...
I think I may frame this photo ... LOL ... to remember this wonderful experience!!!
After the Tea House, we were taken to the Hutong of Beijing. The Hutong in Beijing, are alleys formed by lines of siheyuan, which are traditional courtyard residences.
Well, it's pretty late and I'm tired so I guess I'll end this post. It was a very eventful day ... just filled with SO MUCH!!! This post doesn't cover it all nor does it provide the full explanation but we hope that you enjoy the bits that you are getting anyway.
Stay tuned for more ...
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