Which parks in Beijing have you explored? Have you visited any of the famous imperial gardens? While you might have strolled through the Summer Palace or the Old Summer Palace, there's a chance you haven't yet explored these two imperial gardens near the Forbidden City.
These gardens are Jingshan Park and Beihai Park. As their names suggest, Jingshan Park is known for its scenic hill, while Beihai Park is famous for its "sea." Jingshan Park, with over 800 years of history, is most renowned for the five pavilions standing atop the hill from east to west. The Wanchun Pavilion, located at the highest point of Jingshan Park, is the tallest spot in old Beijing. The area in front of the pavilion also marks the center of old Beijing.
At Jingshan Park, centuries-old birch trees tower majestically on the hill, forming a dense canopy that resembles clouds. In spring, the park comes alive with blooming flowers, creating a vibrant and layered landscape, highlighted by the splendid peonies in full bloom. On the flat areas, rows of ancient cypress trees, also with centuries of history, are neatly arranged, with lush green lawns beneath them.
Opposite Jingshan, in the northern part of the park, lies the recently reopened Shouhuang Hall (Hall of Imperial Longevity). As the second-largest historical building on Beijing's central axis outside the Forbidden City, it's definitely worth a visit.
Boating on Beihai, with the stunning White Pagoda on Qionghua Island in view and surrounded by lush trees and red walls, is like drifting through a beautiful painting.
In recent years, Beihai Park has unveiled three new attractions: Chanfu Temple, the "Blessed Place," the Wanfo Pavilion, a birthday gift from Emperor Qianlong to his mother, and Huafangzhai, a Jiangnan-style courtyard. Before you leave, don’t miss visiting the Round City just outside the park's south gate.
The Round City itself is an ancient architectural marvel. Once on top, take a moment to learn about its drainage system—you'll be amazed by the ingenuity of our ancestors. On the Round City, you'll also find the Dushan Jade Vase, a national treasure.
Jingshan Park Address: 44 Jingshan Xijie(St), Xicheng, Beijing
Beihai Park Address: 1 Wenjin Jie(St), Xicheng, Beijing
Translator: DING Hongwei
Reviewer: FENG Haoxuan
