Beihai Park is one of the oldest, largest, and most exquisitely preserved imperial gardens in China. Located in the center of Beijing, it serves as a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, seamlessly blending the grandeur of royal architecture with the tranquility of nature.
Key Highlights
800+ Years of History: Originally established during the Liao Dynasty (around 1179) and significantly expanded during the Qing Dynasty, the park has served as a royal retreat for emperors of various dynasties for over eight centuries.
Classic Garden Design: The park follows the traditional Chinese garden principle of "one pond, three mountains" (Yi Chi San Shan). Roughly half of the park's area is covered by water (Beihai Lake), with the iconic Jade Island (Qionghua Island) rising from the center.
The White Pagoda: Standing atop Jade Island, this Tibetan-style stupa was built in 1651 to welcome the 5th Dalai Lama. It is the most recognizable landmark of the park.
Cultural Treasures: The park houses several national treasures, including the Nine-Dragon Wall (one of only three in existence in China) and the Xuande Palace (Hall of Miraculous Valor).
Layout & Must-See Spots
The park is divided into several main areas:
Qionghua Island (Jade Island): Connected to the shore by the Jinshui Bridge, this island is covered in lush trees and ancient temples. The White Pagoda offers panoramic views of the Forbidden City and the park.
North Shore Area: Home to the famous Nine-Dragon Wall, the Five Dragon Pavilions (Wulongting), and the Imperial Garden of Peace and Longevity (Xiaoxitian).
East Shore Area: Features the Haopujian garden and the Boating Studio (Huafangzhai), known for its elegant rockeries.
Circular City (Tuancheng): Located just south of the main entrance, this small, moated island contains the Chengguang Hall and a giant jade urn.
Visitor Information
Location: No. 1 Wenjin Street, Xicheng District, Beijing (adjacent to the Forbidden City to the east and Jingshan Park to the north).
Opening Hours:
April 1 - October 31: 06:00 - 21:00
November 1 - March 31: 06:30 - 20:00
Note: Indoor exhibitions may have different hours.
Tickets: Admission is very affordable (approx. ¥5-10 for the park; an additional fee is required for entry to Jade Island/Boat rides). Tickets must be booked online in advance via the "Beijing Park Online" platform.
Getting There:
Subway: Take Line 6 to Beihai North Station (Exit B) or Line 8 to South Luogu Lane Station.
Bus: Routes 5, 101, 103, 109, etc., to Beihai Park Station.
Tips for Visitors
Boat Rides: Renting a boat on Beihai Lake is a very popular and relaxing activity, especially in summer when the lotus flowers bloom.
Ice Skating: In winter, the frozen lake transforms into a massive natural ice rink, offering a unique traditional Beijing experience.
Tea & Cuisine: You can enjoy traditional royal snacks at Fangshan Restaurant or have tea at Cui Lian Tea House within the park.
