Ming and Qing Emperors stood on this spot twice a year to pray for a good harvest. In their progress through the Tiantan, Temple of Heaven, they had been purified over several days, abstaining from eating meat and all carnal pleasures. Now it is a much quicker progress and visitors cannot wait to step onto the podium and incant a good wish or two. The clothes are less impressive but the happy smiles make it all worthwhile. Photo: Leica X Vario.