The Garden of the Prince Gong’s Mansion is also named Cuijin Garden (萃锦园), originally built during the Ming Dynasty. The length of it from the south to north is about 150 meters, and the width of it from the east to west is 170 meters. The garden covers an area of 28,000 square meters, contains 31 ancient buildings which occupy an area of 2,800 square meters.

The Garden of the Prince Gong’s Mansion faces the south, concealing itself inside the cobwebbed hutongs of the Shichihai Scenic Area. Initially the garden and the mansion were the residence of He Shen, a senior and favorite official of Emperor Qianlong during the Qing Dynasty. Since then, the residence has experienced 200 years of history. In the garden there are the calligraphic works of Emperor Kangxi (grandfather of Emperor Qianlong), wooden buildings, rockeries and stone carvings. After Emperor Qianlong died, his favorite official He Shen was sentenced to hanging himself. The residence was confiscated and given to Prince Yong Ling (his prince title was Prince Qing). During the reign of Emperor Xianfeng (descendent of Emperor Qianlong), the residence was then granted to Yi Xin (Prince Gong). Since then, the names have been known as Prince Gong’s Mansion and the Garden of the Prince Gong’s Mansion.

Prince Gong’s Mansion is divided into three parts, which consist of multiple courtyard houses. Standing at the back of the mansion is a 160-meter-long two-story building. The three building standing in the middle of the mansion are the main structures of the entire residence, being the Great Hall, Back Hall and Yan Building. The last part of the mansion is a garden, where over 20 views vary from one to another.

Opening hours:Peak season: 17:30 – 4:30 (March 16 – Nov. 15)Off-peak season: 8: 00 – 16: 00 (Nov. 16 – March 15)Admission: 40 yuan