Linglong Park, located in Beijing's Haidian, was established in 1989 on the site of the former Ming Dynasty Cishou Temple. The park features an ancient pagoda known as Cishou Temple Pagoda, also called Linglong Pagoda or Yong'an Wanshou Pagoda. This pagoda, built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty (1576), has a history spanning over 400 years.
Modeled after the Tianning Temple Pagoda in Beijing, it is often referred to as the "sister pagoda" of Tianning. Standing 50 meters tall with 13 stories, the octagonal, solid brick pagoda has a distinctive close-eaved design. The pagoda's base is divided into two layers, with the lower layer featuring a three-tier platform with stone inlays at the corners, and the upper layer consisting of a double-layered Sumeru pedestal adorned with exquisitely carved lotus petals. The intricately carved niches and figures on the pagoda are lifelike and worth careful observation.
The Cishou Temple was destroyed in a fire during the Guangxu period, leaving only a solitary brick pagoda—what we now know as Linglong Pagoda. To the north of the pagoda stand two stone steles from the Wanli period; the left features an image of the Bamboo Grove Guanyin, while the right depicts the Fish Basket Guanyin and the deity Guan Yu.
In addition to the ancient pagoda, the park also boasts various attractions, including the Locomotive Plaza, viewing platforms, Jian Pond, a floral display area, a shaded activity area, a fitness square, and a children's playground. The park is a lively hub, attracting visitors who come to stroll, relax with their children, exercise, play chess, dance, or practice photography.
For those interested in visiting, take Metro Line 10 and get off at Cishou Temple Station. Exit at C1 and walk 200 meters to reach the park. Linglong Park is free to enter and requires no reservation. It's conveniently located near the Yuyuantan Park, making it easy to plan a day of sightseeing.
Address: No. 3, Balizhuang North, Haidian, Beijing
Admission: Free
Translator: DING Hongwei
Reviewer: NIU Lihua
