Fragrant Hills Park (香山公园xiang shan gong yuan) is recognized as one of Beijing’s well-known tourist destinations, especially in the fall for appreciating the falling red leaves. The other main popular activity year-round is hiking one of the trails. If you are looking to go hiking not too far away from the city center,Fragrant Hills Parkis a great option to explore.

The park was built in 1186, during the Jin Dynasty, large in size and having characteristics similar to other royal gardens likethe Summer Palace. It was expanded during the Yuan and Ming dynasties and also fell victim to attacks by British troops in 1860 along with the Old Summer Palace and again in 1900 by foreign troops of the Eight-Nation Alliance along with the Summer Palace. Today, much of the park has been restored.

Once you get to the park, purchase tickets for admission (RMB 15). Once entering the main entrance, you will start to appreciate the natural scenery full of ancient cultural relics and architecture. The popular hiking trail is not too challenging compared to China’s five great mountains (Tai Shan, Hua Shan, Heng Shan in Hunan and Shanxi provinces, and Song Shan). The continuously inclining trail is well-constructed and is plenty wide to accommodate many visitors. Once you get closer to the top, the trail will become a bit more challenging and you will encounter steps to continue going up. If you get tired, there are multiple rest stops along the way. The hike doesn’t take too long to get up, about 1-2 hours depending on your speed. If you are one who prefers to take in the sights rather than being inclined to hike up, there are cable cars that can take you up and down the mountain. Don’t be intimated though, because you will notice seniors who can hike up the mountain along the way, who will truly inspire you.