Beijing Shejitan
北京社稷坛 · Donghuamen Subdistrict
building
Contents
6 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Beijing Shejitan
Welcome to the Shejitan, the Altar of Land and Grain, located within the serene grounds of Zhongshan Park. This site is a cornerstone of Chinese imperial ritual, representing the very foundation of the state’s survival: the soil…
Listen in the app2The Five-Colored Soil Altar
At the heart of the complex lies the Altar itself, a square platform paved with earth of five different colors. This is the 'She' (god of the soil) and 'Ji' (god of the grains). …
Listen in the app3The Hall of Prayer (Bai Dian)
Just to the north of the altar stands the Bai Dian, or the Hall of Prayer. This is an exquisite example of Ming Dynasty timber-frame architecture. …
Listen in the app4The Altar of Agriculture (Xian Nong Tan) Connection
While we are at the Shejitan, it is essential to mention its 'twin' ritual site, the Xian Nong Tan, or Altar of Agriculture, located further south in the city. While the Shejitan focused on the gods of soil and grain, the Xian…
Listen in the app5The Sacred Grove of Cypresses
Surrounding the Altar of Land and Grain is a vast grove of ancient cypress trees. In Chinese culture, the cypress is a symbol of longevity and steadfastness, and these trees were planted specifically to create a 'forest' that…
Listen in the app6Closing
As we leave the Altar of Land and Grain, reflect on the enduring nature of the concepts it represents. While the Qing Dynasty ended in 1912, and the sacrifices to the gods of soil have long since ceased, the fundamental…
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What is Beijing Shejitan?
Beijing Shejitan is a place in Donghuamen Subdistrict with 6 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | Donghuamen Subdistrict |
|---|---|
| Type | Heritage |
| Story sections | 6 |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 39.9104, 116.3886 |
| Last updated |
