subject: Ritan Park A Stroll Through Serenity [print this page] An ancient citadel that emanates an air of cool confidence, this born-to-rule city is a vast metropolis of activity. From underground bomb shelters to narrow alleys, this Chinese city has it all. A little patient exploring will bring out the buried and almost forgotten history of this magnificent city, where hidden gems of value are waiting to be revealed.
A glimpse of Beijings history can be caught at Ritan Park one of the five altars in Beijing. Built in 1530, its also known as the Temple of the Sun; as this was the place where the emperor offered sacrifices to the sun during the Ming and Qing dynasties. There was also a palace built within its boundaries called the Jufu Palace. This park also houses a unique feature: 44 ancient trees, among which one is a 1,100 year old cypress tree named the Nine Dragon Cypress, so called because of its upward pointing, twisting branches. A place where worship tablets were also stored, it also had a place for animal sacrifice.
Having been devastated once, it was reconstructed and open to the public in 1956 with an extended area of 206,200 sq meters. New scenic areas, flower shows in spring, amusement park for the children, fishing zones, music festivals and caring and adoption of ancient trees are few of the many activities that attract visitors to this heritage park. The new scenic structure is made up of the Yuxin Garden, Southwest Scenic Section that encompasses a mountain and a breathtaking lake and the Qinghui Pavilion.
Accommodation is of paramount importance when visiting Beijing, which is why Shangri-La Hotel Beijing offers the guest a truly unique experience. Serene and luxurious, this Beijing luxury hotel is a treat to the senses. Promising to cater to your every need, it revels in pampering their guests. Spacious and comfortable, this is one of the Beijing luxury hotels that have won numerous awards for the ambiance it presents and the service it offers.
