The Red Stairway Bridge and the North Clothes Changing Platform were, respectively, the imperial path to the altar and the place for dressing for the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Red Stairway Bridge is higher than the ground level of the inner altar, forming an axial space over the inner altar, reflecting the important ceremonial significance of the north-south axis in the design of the Temple of Heaven.

The Red Stairway Bridge connects the northern and southern parts of the inner section of the Temple of Heaven. Its deck is paved with blue-gray bricks and trimmed with white stone. An imperial road of white stone runs in the center of the deck. The Red Stairway Bridge is higher in elevation above ground level, forming a gradually elevated space from south to north.