Ritan Park

Located in the dynamic CBD area in east Beijing, the Ritan Park, covering an area of 10,000 square meters, was used by emperors in the Ming and Qing dynasties to perform sacrificial ceremonies to the Sun. Completed in 1530, the park is one of the oldest parks in Beijing. Owning a square-shaped altar, the park is an oasis of tranquility in the bustling business area of the city.

Yuetan Park

West of the Forbidden City, the park is a site for imperial sacrifices to the Moon in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Built in 1530, the park covers an area of 8.1 hectares and is one of Beijing's well-known ancient gardens. In 2001, the Yuetan Park was listed as one of the cultural relics under the protection of the state. The park is divided into two sections of the north and the south respectively. The northern section features traditional Chinese architecture and straight paths, while the southern section is characterized by its pools, rockeries and zigzag alleys.

(Beijing Review July 7,2008)