Beijing - Sun-Yat-sen Park

(Local Name: Zhongshan Gongyuan) This popular park, lying southwest of the Imperial Palace, was opened to the public in 1914. In 1928 it was renamed the Sun-Yat-sen Park. Emperor Yongle had the Sheji Tan altar built in the park grounds in 1421. From then onwards the emperors made sacrifices here twice-yearly, in the springtime to bring a good harvest and in the autumn for thanksgiving. The altar still stands and is situated in the center of the park. The Xili Ting Pavilion in the south of park once housed the ceremonial chamber.

The white gate was originally dedicated to the memory of Baron von Ketteler, who was assassinated in the Boxer Rebellion. However, following the German defeat in the First World War