Visit Review
On the afternoon of November 29, the second event in the “Ancient Capital, New Charm — Exploring Heritage Along the Central Axis” Beijing Central Axis Visit Series, part of the “I-SISers” Project, was successfully held.
Zhang Xinyang, Deputy Party Secretary of the School of International Studies (SIS) at Peking University, and Jiang Jiaqi, Deputy Secretary of the SIS Youth League Committee, led 15 Chinese and international students to visit the Beijing Working People’s Cultural Palace and Zhongshan Park. The group attentively listened to a detailed explanation by the guide about the deep cultural significance of the Ancestral Temple (Taimiao) and the Altar of Land and Grain (Shejitan).
Exploring the Ancestral Temple
Under the guidance of the docent, the group first toured the Taimiao complex. Starting from the east gate of the Cultural Palace, they passed through Taizi Forest, the Front Glazed Gate, and the Gate of Halberds, before finally entering the main area of the Ancestral Temple. There they visited the Hall of Worship (Xiangdian), the Hall of Reverence (Qindian), and the Ancestral Hall (Tiaomiao).
From Taimiao to the Shejitan
On their way to the Altar of Land and Grain, the group crossed Wumen Square, experiencing the grandeur of the Forbidden City. Along the way, the guide engaged in lively discussions with the students, covering both broad historical themes and in-depth cultural insights.
Before entering Zhongshan Park, the guide used a map to introduce other sites along the Beijing Central Axis and their cultural significance. It was noted that even today, the axis is being preserved and developed — for example, the Great Hall of the People and the National Museum still stand symmetrically along it, reflecting its vitality and China’s pursuit of balance and harmony.
Touring the Shejitan
Following the ceremonial route once taken by emperors, the group visited the Slaughter Pavilion, Divine Kitchen and Storehouse, Lingxing Gate with enclosing walls, and the Five-Color Altar. The guide explained the purpose of each structure, helping participants to appreciate how the Shejitan embodied traditional Chinese people-oriented governance and agricultural values.
The final stop was the Gate of Safeguarding Peace, where students paid tribute to a statue of Sun Yat-sen. The visit bridged ancient and modern architecture, deepening everyone’s understanding of the Central Axis. The day concluded with a group photo in front of the gate.
Warm Moments
Beyond the historical learning, the tour was filled with warmth and joy. International students eagerly interacted with the guide, asking questions. The guide also shared interesting historical tidbits, such as the symbolic meaning of gate orientations and the origin of the “Dismount Stele.” At Laijinyuxuan, everyone enjoyed seasonal vegetable buns together. At the end, the group presented a “Guoguan Teddy” cultural gift to the staff as a token of appreciation.
Reflections
“National affairs rest on ritual and defense.”
During this visit to the Ancestral Temple and the Altar of Land and Grain, I felt the weight of history and the depth of civilization. These ancient buildings not only embody the wisdom of our ancestors but also symbolize the enduring vitality of Chinese civilization. This cultural confidence and sense of mission will inspire me on my future journey.
— Tu Fan, Class of 2022 Undergraduate, SIS
Participating in this activity was a very wise decision. I learned more about Beijing’s culture and history, something I rarely make time to do on my own. I especially appreciated the English explanations, which made the history come alive for me. The guide tailored the talk to our field of study, and the tour length was just right. I’d definitely join again and recommend it to other international students.
— Chen Ning, Class of 2024 Master’s Student, SIS
I really enjoyed this trip to the Ancestral Temple and the Altar of Land and Grain. It was a great chance to learn about the Beijing Central Axis and Ming dynasty sacrificial ceremonies. I wish there had been more snack breaks, but I’m very grateful for the experience!
— Lin Na, Class of 2023 Master’s Student, SIS
About the Beijing Central Axis
The Beijing Central Axis is composed of imperial palace gardens, royal sacrificial sites, ancient city administration facilities, state ceremonial and public buildings, and central road remains. First laid out in the 13th century and finalized in the 16th century, it has been refined over seven centuries into a grand and orderly cityscape — a model of the ideal Chinese capital that has influenced urban planning for over 2,000 years.
On July 27, 2024, at the 46th UNESCO World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi, the Beijing Central Axis — A Masterpiece of China’s Ideal Capital Layout was inscribed on the World Heritage List, bringing China’s total to 59 heritage sites.
About the “I-SISers” Project
Launched on July 4, 2023, by the School of International Studies, the “I-SISers” Project aims to promote cultural exchange and mutual learning between Chinese and international students. Activities have included writing workshops, luncheons, and garden parties.
This semester, the school organized the Ancient Capital, New Charm — Exploring Heritage Along the Central Axis series, inviting students to experience Beijing’s historical sites. With support from the Beijing Working People’s Cultural Palace and Zhongshan Park, the second event brought students to Taimiao and Shejitan to explore the city’s “Left Ancestral, Right Altar” planning concept and the values of reverence for heaven and ancestors.
Written by: Wei Linjiang
Photoy by: Duan Shengde