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By Khoren Grigoryan, reporting from Beijing
Ritan (Sacrifice) Park dedicated to the Sun is located in the very heart of Beijing, the capital of China. It is one of the most appealing places in the capital of the Celestial Empire for walking, dancing, sports, qigong—the traditional Chinese psychophysical breathing, movement, and meditation exercises—and relaxing in nature all year round (PHOTOS).
The park occupies a fairly large area, and it differs from most of Beijing's other parks in that it’s admission is free for visitors.
The history of this park began in 1530, when it was built around the Temple of the Sun. According to the rules of feng shui, during the Ming Dynasty, four temples were built in the Chinese capital, each of which symbolized one of the celestial bodies: the Sun, the Moon, the Earth (Ditan), and the Sky (Tiantan). The central part of Ritan Park is the Sun Altar, a place where sacrificial rituals were held in the past.
Walking along neatly paved paths surrounded by well-groomed flower beds, visitors can reach picturesque ponds in which lilies and lotuses grow. Here, those who are relaxing feed the fish, and sometimes engage in amateur fishing.
Ritan Park has playgrounds, a rock climbing wall, spacious meadows for flying kites, as well as areas for practicing oriental practices and playing traditional musical instruments.
The park is very popular and is notable for its high attendance.
In addition, flower exhibitions and musical events are held here on a regular basis.
