CITY INFORMATION Countries | China | Bejing | WHERE TO GO where to eat Historical Attraction The Golden Gate China's Great Wall stretches east-west for more than 5,000 kilometers. Its origins can be traced to the seventh century BC, when independent kingdoms constructed separate walls to keep out marauding nomads. China's first emperor linked many of these during the Qin Dynasty (221-207BC). For specific details on the Great Wall refer to Ba Da Ling, Mu Tia Yu, Si Ma Tai and Huang Hua     The Forbidden City The glorious Forbidden City, so named because it was off-limit to commoners for 500 years, was the imperial court for twenty-four emperors from the early days of the Ming Dynasty in the 15th century until the fall of Qing dynasty in 1911. It is the largest, most complete, and best-preserved cluster of the ancient buildings in Chine, representing the work of battalions of laborers. This gigantic compound of halls, pavilions, courtyards, and walls is a masterwork of architectural balance, monumental but never oppressive. Occupying more than 183 acres, the expensive complex earns the title of "city". It was unusual for emperors and servant alike never to venture beyond the moat-surrounded 35-foot walls and formidable gates-ever. That they believe themselves to be at the cosmic center of universe is a fantasy visitor can readily appreciate today.   Parks Bei Hai Park Built earlier than the Forbidden Cityby by the Great Khan centuries. This park was enjoyed by the various rulers of China for hundreds of years and features pavilions, architecturally interesting walkways, the 27-meter-long (about 88 feet) Nine Dragon Screen (built to scare off evil spirits), a jar that is the last remnant of the Khan's court that had been there, the Five Dragon Pavilion dating from the mid 1600's, and a large lake with an island in the middle.     Summer Palace A definite "must see" park in Beijing, the Summer Palace, this famous classic imperial garden has indeed breathtaking beauty. Bold and generously designed, the northern gardens skillfully blend into the exquisite delicacy of the southern gardens. The Summer Palace holds a special place in the history of Chinese gardens. These are only two of the many majestic gardens in Beijing.     Temples Temple of Heaven Temple of Heaven is the largest group of structures in the country dedicated to rituals that pay homage to heaven. This temple was built specifically for the worship of heaven and prayers for good harvests during the time of the Ming and Qing dynasties. There are two amazing acoustical spots here. On the top of the tri-leveled round altar (originally built in the 1500's) there is a spot where your words reverberate around you. You can easily imagine the power that temporal rulers felt as their prayers for abundance echoed as if they issued down from the heavens. The other is at the Echo Wall that partially encloses a circular courtyard that is 65 meters (213 feet) in diameter. Words whispered at one end travel along the wall and can be heard clearly by someone listening at the other end. The entire temple complex is a treasure of ancient Chinese architectural design and art. Symbolic shape combinations (the temples are round on square bases signifying heaven and earth) and various mystical numbers are the basis for much of the design work. The temple structures themselves are stunning works of art.     Temple of Confucius The most active and the oldest of Taoist temple in Beijing woth to visit as it is where the basis of early Chinese life and culture is formed. Many of traditional Chinese medicine's principles and theories were derived from the work of Taoist doctors and masters     The Biyun Temple The Biyun Temple (Biyunsi) was first built during the Yuan dynasty, and the area around the temple today has a few places of historic interest to offer, and some spectacular breathtaking scenery. Given that it is located near the North end of Fragrant Hills Park, it's a nice place to take a break from the hectic pace of city life. Places of interest here include Sun Yat-sen's Memorial Hall and a throne of Buddha's Warrior attendants. Outside the gate to the temple, there is a suspended stone bridge, under which is a deep gully with tall locust trees and willows falling on both sides.