How does the architecture of the Temple of Heaven reflect the doctrine of heaven and earth? Thank you!

The architecture of the Temple of Heaven reflects the doctrine of heaven and earth through its design and layout.

First of all, the architecture of the Temple of Heaven Park is characterized by its elaborate design, which is based on the ancient Chinese doctrine of yin and yang and the five elements of the Zhouyi (The Book of Changes) in terms of the selection of the location, the planning, and the design of the building, reflecting the ancient Chinese understanding of heaven. The Temple of Heaven complex consists of the Hall of Prayers for the Celebration of the Year of the Dragon, the Imperial Vault, the Huanqiu Altar, the Divine Kitchen, the Supporting Halls, the Promenade and other buildings. Among them, the Hall of Praying for the Year of the Lord is the main building of the Temple of Heaven complex and one of the largest wooden structures existing in China. The roof of the Hall of Prayer for the Year of the Lord is round, symbolizing the roundness of heaven and signifying the harmony between heaven and earth.

Secondly, the Imperial Dome and Huanqiu Altar in the Temple of Heaven complex also embody the doctrine of heaven and earth. The Imperial Vault is the rear hall of the Hall of Prayer for the Year of the Dragon, and it has a hemispherical roof, symbolizing the vault of heaven. The Huanqiu Altar is the most important building in the Temple of Heaven complex; it is the place where the emperor sacrificed to heaven and the core of the Temple of Heaven complex. The plan layout and architectural style of Huanqiu Altar fully demonstrate the excellent skills and profound cultural connotation of ancient Chinese architecture.

In addition, the buildings and attractions in the Temple of Heaven Park reflect the doctrine of heaven and earth. The Seven Star Stones, a group of stones surrounding the front of the Hall of Prayer for the Year of the Dragon, symbolize the seven stars of the Big Dipper, reflecting the ancient people's understanding of the relationship between heaven and earth. The Promenade is the corridor between the Imperial Vault and the Huanqiu Altar, and its design is also full of symbolism of the doctrine of heaven and earth. The Double Ring Pavilion is located at the northeast corner of the inner altar, and its design is inspired by the ancient bagua diagram, reflecting the interrelationship between heaven and earth.

In short, the architecture and layout of the Temple of Heaven Park fully reflects the ancient Chinese knowledge and understanding of the relationship between heaven and earth, and is one of the outstanding representatives of ancient Chinese architecture and culture.