The Grandeur of Imperial China: Visiting its Palaces, Temples and Great Wall 🏯🏰🕌🌉
You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the grandeur of Imperial China and experience its rich culture. From palaces to temples and the iconic Great Wall, there’s something for every traveller to marvel at and explore. So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes and join me on a journey to discover the breathtaking beauty of Imperial China.
The Forbidden City: A Peek Into the Emperors’ Lives 🏯
As the world’s largest palace complex, the Forbidden City was once home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is a true architectural masterpiece, with over 9,000 rooms and halls, each exquisitely decorated with intricate carvings, paintings and colours.
Wandering through the labyrinth of majestic wooden buildings and courtyards, you will feel as if you’ve stepped back in time to witness the daily lives of the ancient Chinese rulers. Don’t miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Palace of Heavenly Purity, the Hall of Clocks and Watches, and the Garden of Perfect Brightness.
The Temple of Heaven: A Spiritual Haven 🕌
Located in Beijing’s southeastern suburbs, the Temple of Heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful examples of Ming Dynasty architecture. Emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasties used to pray here for good harvests and to worship the gods.
The temple complex consists of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest is an amazing structure, with triple-eaved roofs decorated in blue tiles, symbolising the heavens. Admire the stunning beauty of the surrounding gardens and watch the locals practice Tai Chi or play music.
The Summer Palace: A Cool Escape From the Heat ☀️
Escape the heat of bustling Beijing and retreat to the tranquil oasis of the Summer Palace. Located on the edge of Kunming Lake, the palace is an idyllic example of Chinese garden design.
The highlight of this masterpiece is the Long Corridor, a covered walkway over 700 metres long, decorated with more than 14,000 incredibly detailed paintings. There’s also the Marble Boat, Tower of Buddhist Incense, and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, all surrounded by lush greenery and the peaceful Kunming Lake.
The Great Wall: A Marvel of Human Ingenuity 🌉
No visit to China is complete without a stop at the Great Wall. The iconic structure spans over 13,000 miles, winding its way through mountains and valleys in northern China. Not only is it one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world, but it is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Explore the different sections of the wall, from the restored tourist sections to the more rugged and isolated sections, for a true sense of its grandeur and history. You can hike, bike, or even take a helicopter tour for a unique experience.
Final Thoughts 🚶♀️🚶♂️
The grandeur of Imperial China is truly breathtaking, and visiting the palaces, temples, and Great Wall is a unique opportunity to experience its rich culture and history. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a new adventure, China has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty of Imperial China.
