One of the oldest observatories in the world
Built in 1442 before the telescope even existed, the Ancient Observatory still has several of its original bronze star-gazing instruments on the rooftop platform as well as other astronomical clocks and peraphernalia. The permanent exhibition inside holds two old, wondrous relics: a stone-carved star map from Suzhou and the ceiling astronomical map from Longfu Temple. You can also find the 150 ways that the Chinese created calendars, on display inside.
The observatory itself is huge and looks more like a small castle, with its turrets and ancient walls, than a place for scientific exploration.
