Temples & religious sites
Temple of the Sun
Temple of the Sun
Located in the Chaoyang District, this site was originally established in 1530 during the Ming dynasty as the Altar of the Sun. It served as a location for imperial sacrificial rites. Today, it functions as a public park where visitors can walk through landscaped grounds and view the remaining architectural traces of the old sacrificial site.
Getting There
The site is situated in the central area of Beijing. From the city center, it is accessible via the Beijing subway system or by taxi. Depending on your starting point and traffic conditions, the journey typically takes between 20 and 40 minutes.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk through the park grounds and observe the historical structures.
When to Visit
The park is suitable for a visit during the spring and autumn months when temperatures are moderate. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid the larger crowds that typically gather during midday and weekends.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its central location, this site can be combined with other nearby landmarks. Depending on your interests, you may wish to visit:
- Beijing Ancient Observatory (1.3km)
- China World Trade Center Tower III (1.3km)
- China Media Group Guanghua Road Office Area (1.7km)
- China Zun (1.9km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors