• Ancient Observatory

• General Overview

  

  Astronomy has always held a high position within the chinese sciences as the ability to determine seasons is important for agriculture. More importantly, the ability to predict phenomenon such as eclipses has always been seen as a sign of correspondence with heaven; the Heavenely Mandate that has ensured a ruler's power.

  Beijing's Observatory is one of the oldest still extant in the world. The site is believed to have been used since the thirteenth century but the current structure dates only to the Ming Dynasty in the fifteenth century.

  Attractions For Visitors

  

  The Ancient Observatory is one of Beijing's under-rated sites. That makes it well worthwhile for those who make the effort.

  The Ancient Observatory is located very close to the Jianguomen metro stop making this the easiest way to arrive if not by tour bus or taxi. The ticket office and entrance are easy to locate. The price is very reasonable being under 2 USD.

  Most instruments are raised 15m on a platform that is about 40m square. This is a great viewpoint for Chang'an Avenue, Beijing's main east - west artery, as well as for the skies.

  The larger bronze instruments are located on the ground. These are delightful, being both scientific and artistic. Supports take the form of twisting dragons and other fantastic beasts. There are also some stone tablets around the grounds. These offer a succinct image of Chinese astronomical thinking. For instance, an eclipse is shown as a toad (the moon) covering a golden bird (the sun).

  There are various exhibition halls but the information in English is of variable quality.

  
  
  
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• Current Comments

  4 comments so far (post your own)

  Hi Sam
  
  Excluding travel time, which will vary considerably depending where in Beijing you are coming from and going to, you are going to need a good hour. If you intend an in-depth look or to take lots of photos then you might take over two hours.

  Posted by China Journeys on Mon 9 Apr, 2012

  This site looks great. How many hours should I allow for a visit

  Posted by Sam on Mon 9 Apr, 2012

  Hi Zach
  
  That on was taken on 3 November, 2006. Yes - blue-sky days are rare in Beijing but more likely in the early part of winter. Prices are a bit cheaper and crowds are definitely smaller for those prepared to brave the cold.

  Posted by China Journeys on Tue 3 Jan, 2012

  Is that really Beijing with a blue sky? doesn't look like you photo-shopped the top picture. What month was that taken?

  Posted by Zach Rahman on Tue 3 Jan, 2012

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