Scattered around Beijing's Central Axis are various city parks of different sizes. Today, we've selected a few forest-themed parks with rich vegetation and unique features. They are lesser-known but stunning. Perfect for a leisurely stroll during your free time!

Ande City Forest Park

Ande City Forest Park is located at the northeast corner of the intersection of the North Second Ring Road and the Central Axis, south of Ande Road. It is a newly opened urban forest park in the Hepingli area, connected to the green landscape along the moat.

Perhaps because it is a quiet oasis in the bustling city, it remains peaceful and free from noise. Sitting on a bench in the park, listening to the wind and birdsong, you will feel a deep sense of tranquility.

The park has six entrances, and no matter which one you choose, you will be greeted with greenery. The moment you enter the park, your eyes will feel instantly soothed.

The Park features several highlights: a rain garden, an observation deck, and a log square with ground made from recycled garden pruning that have been shredded and compacted. There is a sandbox designed specifically for children and an "insect hotel" built from logs, hemp ropes, and tiles. Additionally, 30 birdhouses have been placed in the trees to provide habitats for birds.

The park has a 500-meter walking trail that connects the play area and the leisure area. Along the trail, you'll find trees such as Chinese toon, Chinese scholar tree, and Chinese tallow. The vegetation is diverse, with native plants covering the ground and little bluestem, cosmos, and coneflowers adding a touch of wild charm.

Address: Northeast corner of Zhonglou North Bridge, at the intersection of Beijing's North Central Axis and North Second Ring Road.

Ticket: Free

Yan Pier Park

Yan Pier Park spans 19,000 square meters and is designed with the concept of an "urban forest," serving as a green ecological space that balances leisure functions and cultural features.

Yan Pier is a square-shaped platform with a wide base and narrow top. It is said to have been built during the Yuan Dynasty and was originally called "Yandun," symbolizing blessings for Beijing's long-term peace and stability. The park's east side is adjacent to the Yan Pier cultural site, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of Yan Pier.

The park features a winding under-forest walkway approximately 1.2 kilometers long and a straight walkway about 800 meters long. Along these paths are various activity spaces, including children's play areas and fitness zones.

Address: Yan Pier, Yongdingmen, Dongcheng District, Beijing

Ticket: Free

North Riverside Park

North Riverside Park covers an area of 66,300 square meters, with 54,547 square meters of green space. The park features a Stone Exhibition Hall with over a hundred types of ornamental stones. The paths in the park are flat and wide, making it convenient for both the elderly and children to walk.

The park is divided into two sections. The eastern part houses the Stone Exhibition Hall, which has a building area of 5,000 square meters and contains over two thousand ornamental stones from more than a dozen provinces in China, effectively bringing together stones from famous mountains in one place.

Next to the hall is the Stone Friends Guild Hall, a courtyard with traditional Beijing architecture. It includes pavilions, rockeries, and intricately decorated corridors, offering a unique charm and a distinct Beijing flavor.

In addition to the stones, the park's pavilions are quite distinctive. Some are built on flat ground, while others are set atop rocks, all nestled among the trees, exuding a rustic and grand charm.

The park is very serene and tranquil, perfect for relaxing or simply enjoying the scenery without worrying about disturbances from others.

Address: 102 Ande Road, Xicheng District, Beijing

Ticket: Free

Moon Bay Park in Beijing

Beneath Zhengyangmen, from the north end of Meishi Street to the north end of Zhubaoshi Street, lies the nearly 10,000 square meter open urban park—Moon Bay Park. Moon Bay is a free city park open year-round and around the clock. You might easily miss it if you're not paying attention.

Here you can find the former sites of the Bank of Communications and the Salt Industry Bank. The design seamlessly blends old and modern architecture. Although this urban park is small, it is worth a visit for those interested in Beijing's history.

Address: Near 7 Qianmen Xiheyan Street, Xicheng District, Beijing.

Ticket: Free

Translator: DING Hongwei

Reviewer: JIANG Wenyi