Beihai Park
Beihai Park
Overview
Beihai Park, located in the Xicheng district of Beijing, boasts a history spanning more than a millennium. Developed across five dynasties—the Liao (916-1125), Jin (1115-1234), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911)—this royal garden has remained a symbol of both grandeur and elegance. Covering an area of 69 hectares (171 acres), with over half of it occupied by water, the park is divided into four main scenic areas: Qionghua Islet (Jade Flower Islet), Circular City, the eastern bank area and the northern bank area.
Attractions
- At the center of the park stands Qionghua Islet, home to several halls, rockeries and pavilions. The Yong'an Temple (Temple of Everlasting Peace), the largest building complex on the islet, was once a place of worship for emperors and empresses. A prominent feature of the islet is the white Lamaist pagoda, built in 1651, which stands 35.9 meters tall and serves as a symbol of the park. To the west of the temple, pavilions where Qing Dynasty emperors held official meetings and entertained guests are also located.
- In the southeast of the park, Circular City—a well-preserved garden surrounded by a wall—houses the dignified Chengguang Hall, known for its yellow glazed tiles and green eaves. It was originally used by Ming Dynasty emperors to watch firework displays and later became a Buddhist chapel. Not far from the hall is a pavilion with an ancient wine urn once used by Kublai Khan, featuring intricate carvings of a dragon and sea horse.
- The eastern bank offers a peaceful retreat, highlighted by a beautiful courtyard surrounded by trees, which was added to the Qing emperors' residence. The courtyard features traditional buildings and a serene pool at its center. On the northern bank, visitors can find iconic structures such as the Five-Dragon Pavilions, where emperors once went fishing and enjoyed the moon. These pavilions are connected by a bridge that looks like a dragon when viewed from a distance. Another attraction is the Nine-Dragon Wall, built in 1756, known for its exquisite colored glaze depicting nine dragons playing with pearls. This is one of the three surviving Nine-Dragon Walls in China and is a must-see for visitors.
Address: No 1, Wenjin Street, Xicheng district, Beijing Opening hours: Peak Season (April 1 - Oct 31): 06:30 - 21:00 (Last entry at 08:30 ) Off-Season (Nov 1 - March 31): 06:30 - 20:00 (Last entry at 07:30) Tel: 010-64037972
Article reference1. Beihai Park. chinadaily.com.cn. 2018Photo Gallery（3 pictures）CategoriesTourismTagCity TourismRelatedShichahaiLet Us Sway Twin OarsCatalogue1. Overview2. Attractions-
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