City Walk: Explore the Ancient Observatory

The Ancient Observatory near Beijing's Jianguomen is the imperial observatory of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and one of the oldest observatories in the world. The exhibition introduces the observatory, which was built in 1442 and continued astronomical observation for nearly 500 years until 1929. After the Purple Mountain Observatory was established, the Ancient Observatory was converted into an astronomical exhibition hall. The Ancient Observatory is laid out in a courtyard style, with several exhibition rooms introducing the ancient pursuit and study of astronomy, observing the stars, drawing star maps, compiling calendars, and more, witnessing the development of ancient Chinese astronomy. The courtyard displays replicas of astronomical instruments from different eras, as well as statues of famous ancient astronomers. The highlight is climbing nearly 100 stone steps to the observation platform. In the distance is the CBD of Beijing, with the tall China Zun, and in front of you are eight large Qing Dynasty observation instruments, including the equatorial armillary sphere, the ecliptic armillary sphere, the horizon circle, and the celestial globe, which have served Chinese astronomy for hundreds of years and still shine today. A group of young astronomy students are being guided by a teacher, while ordinary visitors are amazed by the ancient wisdom of the observation instruments that have survived for hundreds of years. The Ancient Observatory is also a museum with a lot of information, all in Chinese and English, and you can listen to the explanation by scanning the QR code. The space is open, comfortable, and generally interesting. The Ancient Observatory is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm and is closed on Tuesdays (unlike other museums). Tickets are CNY 20, half price for university students, and free for seniors and minors. No reservation is required. It is within walking distance from Jianguomen or Beijing Railway Station.