Related:
>> 'Travel everywhere in Beijing': The Fayuan Temple

Beijing Ancient Observatory, built in 1442, was the national observatory in Ming and Qing Dynasty. The main body is 14 meters high; the roof is 20.4 meters long from north to south and 23.9 meters from east to west, with eight Qing-made astronomical instruments on it. From 1436 to 1929, this ancient observatory had been used for observation for almost 500 years. Among all the existing ancient observatories, this one has the longest observation history. It is known internationally for its structural integrity and equipment completeness.

The eight Qing-made bronze instruments have Chinese-style moulding, decorations and techniques. The degree scale, vernier and structure show the development of large-scale astronomical instruments since the Renaissance. It is a symbol of cultural exchange between East and West.

Tips:

If you want to take photos of the astronomical instruments, you'd better visit there in the morning, because the light condition is most suitable at that time.