Temple of the Moon (China)

The Temple of the Moon, also known as Yuetan Park, is a historical altar and park located in the Chaoyang District of Beijing, China. It was built during the Ming Dynasty in 1530 by the Jiajing Emperor to offer sacrifices to the moon. As its name suggests, it served as the imperial altar for worshipping the lunar deity, symbolizing the Emperor's connection to the celestial realm and ensuring prosperity for the nation.

Unlike the Temple of Heaven (Tian Tan) and the Temple of Earth (Ditan), the Temple of the Moon does not contain a single central structure. Instead, the main sacrificial site was a white marble altar located in the southern section of the park. The color white was symbolically associated with the moon and purity. The altar was designed according to specific cosmological principles, reflecting the perceived relationship between the earthly realm and the lunar sphere.

After the fall of the Qing Dynasty, the temple complex fell into disuse. In the mid-20th century, the area was transformed into a public park, preserving some of the original structures and historical significance while offering recreational space for the local community. Although many of the original temple buildings were lost over time, the altar itself remains, and the park retains its connection to the historical imperial sacrifices. Yuetan Park now serves as a place for relaxation, exercise, and cultural activities. Its historical significance is marked by informational plaques and the continued preservation of the remaining architectural elements, reminding visitors of its past role in imperial ritual and lunar worship. The park often features cultural events and performances related to the Moon Festival, highlighting the enduring cultural importance of the moon in Chinese tradition.