Nestled in the heart of Beijing, just a short stroll from the Forbidden City, Beihai Park offers a poetic blend of imperial grandeur, natural beauty, and living tradition. Spanning nearly 70 hectares and centered around a serene lake, this classical Chinese garden has witnessed centuries of history while remaining a peaceful retreat for locals and travelers alike.
Beihai Park is not just a park—it is a cultural journey, a landscape painting brought to life, and a place where ancient symbolism and modern leisure harmoniously coexist.
An Imperial Garden with Over a Thousand Years of History
Beihai Park’s origins date back more than a millennium, with its foundations laid during the Liao Dynasty (907–1125). It was continuously developed through the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, serving as an imperial retreat for generations of emperors. The Yuan Dynasty, in particular, used this area as the heart of Dadu (the capital), integrating it into a complex network of palaces and ceremonial spaces.
The design of the park was inspired by traditional Chinese cosmology and garden aesthetics, especially the concept of recreating mythical sacred mountains surrounded by water. The White Dagoba, which crowns the central Jade Flower Island, reflects Tibetan Buddhist influence and serves as a striking symbol of harmony and spirituality.
Cultural Riches and Architectural Wonders
One of the most iconic structures in Beihai Park is the White Dagoba, built in 1651 during the reign of Emperor Shunzhi of the Qing Dynasty. Rising 40 meters above Jade Flower Island, it represents a fusion of Tibetan and Chinese architectural styles. From its base, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over the lake and the Beijing skyline, including glimpses of the Forbidden City and Jingshan Park.
Another cultural gem is the Nine-Dragon Wall, a rare three-sided glazed-tile screen decorated with nine intricately carved dragons on each side. Built in 1756, it is one of only three such walls in China and showcases vivid craftsmanship and symbolic imagery.
The Circular City (Tuancheng), located in the southwest corner of the park, once served as a small imperial fortress. Today, it houses a hall with a jade Buddha and ancient steles, offering insight into the spiritual life of the Qing court.
An Experience of Beauty in Every Season
Beihai Park’s charm evolves with the seasons. In spring, flowering trees such as peonies, cherry blossoms, and magnolias burst into color, making the lakeside paths ideal for leisurely strolls. Summer brings lotus blooms across the water and boats gliding lazily across the lake. Autumn offers golden ginkgo leaves and a crisp serenity, while winter transforms the lake into a skating rink, with families enjoying seasonal festivities against the backdrop of snow-dusted pavilions.
Whether watching willows sway beside the water, admiring the elegant bridges, or sipping tea in a lakeside pavilion, the experience is deeply immersive. The garden’s layout is a masterful balance of openness and enclosure, of water, stone, and architecture—a signature of classical Chinese landscaping.
A Living Park for All Generations
While steeped in history, Beihai Park remains vibrant and alive. Early mornings reveal a microcosm of Beijing’s local life: elderly residents practicing tai chi, groups dancing to traditional music, calligraphy artists painting poetry on the pavement with water, and families enjoying picnics by the shore.
The park is also a cultural venue throughout the year. Traditional music performances, tea culture festivals, flower exhibitions, and seasonal light displays keep the space dynamic and engaging. In this way, Beihai Park is not a static monument, but a living cultural space that continues to grow and connect with people.
Highlights Not to Miss
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Jade Flower Island (Qionghua Dao): Home to the White Dagoba, ancient pavilions, and sacred relics. It is the spiritual and visual center of the park.
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Nine-Dragon Wall: A colorful, mythically inspired structure that offers both artistic detail and photo-worthy grandeur.
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Five-Dragon Pavilion (Wulong Ting): A series of connected pavilions over the lake, ideal for catching reflections and sunsets.
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Little Western Heaven (Xiaoxitian): A tranquil Buddhist temple area reflecting Tibetan influence and architectural harmony.
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Boating on the Lake: During spring to autumn, visitors can rent paddle boats or take a scenic cruise around the island.
Visitor Impressions
Travelers often describe Beihai Park as a place where the pace of the city fades and is replaced by a quiet elegance. One visitor shared, “We came for the history and stayed for the peace. It felt like walking through a living painting.” Another noted, “The panoramic view from the White Dagoba was breathtaking, but what I loved most was how local life blended into the grandeur.”
It is often cited as a favorite destination for its balance of accessibility, beauty, and authenticity. Many appreciate how the park allows them to experience Beijing’s imperial past while connecting with the city’s present-day rhythms.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Beihai Park is located just west of the Forbidden City and is easily accessible by public transport. The closest subway station is Beihai North (Line 6), a short walk from the park’s north entrance.
The park is open year-round, with longer hours in the spring and summer. Tickets are modestly priced, and combo tickets offer access to all interior attractions including the Jade Flower Island and Nine-Dragon Wall.
To make the most of your visit:
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Arrive early for peaceful scenes and cooler temperatures.
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Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore the entire park at a relaxed pace.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as there is considerable walking.
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Visit a teahouse for a traditional Chinese tea experience overlooking the lake.
A Timeless Escape in the Capital
Beihai Park is more than a historical site—it is a reflection of Chinese philosophy, artistry, and everyday joy. For those traveling through China and eager to understand the nation’s layered cultural identity, this park offers a rare and rewarding experience. From ancient structures to blooming gardens and quiet corners of meditation, every element invites reflection and appreciation.
Whether you’re interested in architecture, gardens, history, or simply a place to rest in beauty, Beihai Park delivers all of that—and more—in one unforgettable setting.
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