SUKHA: The Hue of Ditan Park in Fall

Ditan, which means Temple of Earth literally, is located in the middle of a heavily populated area, outside Beijing's second ring road. The site was constructed in year 1530 by Emporer Jia Jing in Ming Dynasty for a specific purpose. Emperors of Ming and subsequent Qing Dydasty used the central Altar at the temple to made sacrifices to appease the Gods, for good harvest, auspicious weather and strong stable nation. Since 1000 years ago, Chinese have believed that important cosmic things could be symbolized by using common shapes and direction. The circular shaped Temple of Heaven （天坛） at southern part of Beijing represents heaven and sky while the square Temple of Earth （Ditan 地坛） at northern part of Beijing symbolizes the earth or ground. In Chinese culture and mythology, square is a powerful symbol. The foot print of Ditan is square in shape and there are many square walls and altars in the Temple. The main central altar that was surrounded by water as a moat in the past, was called Fangzetan （方泽坛）. It was used to make offering for Earth Gods in summer. The main building was a worship platform covering an area of 18,000 sq.meter. Unfortunately the temple site was damaged during cultural revolution of China, and the present one was restored and renovated. Temple of Earth lies just next to Lama Temple and is one of the five ancient altars in Beijing. Chinese Government has listed the site as one of the most important historical monuments under special preservation.

The vase space of Ditan's 40 acres of land feature lush gardens and tree line paths.

The historical site was fully flushed up by the burning red fall maple leaves.

The stunning beauty of fall foliage in Ditan Park is among few most attractive spots in Beijing.

Beside golden gingko leaves, the bright red maple trees are most enchanting.

A colorful world always is an ideal spot for photographers, professional or non-professional.

The wisdom and knowledge of the ancient Chinese architect had created a comfortable, harmonious and peaceful site for all Chinese descendants, generations after generations.

Foreigners are rare in Ditan Park although it is very popular for its autumn foliage and also the traditional temple fares during the 15days Chinese New Year festival when thousands of red lanterns and colorful fans were hanged on the trees in the park.

Wonderful combination of colors!

A lively park where people enjoy, share and gather together. This perhaps is an ideal place and a dreamed living style for many seniors.

An old Shiheyan in the park now become a meeting venue for local seniors to learn arts, folk songs and opera singing.

While children are enjoying in the play arcade inside the Park, seniors immersed in their chess with friends of same interest. A tremendously harmonious life in realty.