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Beijing · Attraction

Beihai Park

A magnificent imperial garden with over 1000 years of history, Beihai Park is one of the oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens in China, blending natural beauty with exquisite architecture

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Beihai Park
Beijing, ChinaField notes · Attraction
BeijingImperial GardenHistorical SiteUNESCO

Why go

About Beihai Park

Beihai Park, located in the heart of Beijing, is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design that dates back to the 10th century during the Liao Dynasty. Covering 69 hectares, with over half of the area occupied by the beautiful Beihai Lake, this imperial garden served as a royal retreat for successive dynasties including the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing. The park represents the perfect harmony between man-made structures and natural landscapes, featuring artificial hills, pavilions, temples, and corridors that create a poetic atmosphere.

The centerpiece is the stunning White Dagoba, a Tibetan-style stupa built in 1651 that stands majestically on Jade Flower Island. The park's design follows traditional Chinese philosophy, with the lake representing the sea and the island symbolizing Penglai, the mythical island of immortals. Beihai Park is not just a scenic spot but a living museum of Chinese garden art, architecture, and imperial history.

Make time for

Practical ideas, not a checklist

  1. 01Climb to the top of Jade Flower Island for panoramic views of the White Dagoba and surrounding lake
  2. 02Take a traditional dragon boat ride across the serene Beihai Lake
  3. 03Explore the Nine-Dragon Wall
  4. 04one of only three such walls in China with colorful glazed tiles
  5. 05Visit the Round City with its ancient cypress tree and precious jade jar from the Yuan Dynasty
  6. 06Walk through the Five-Dragon Pavilions extending into the lake
  7. 07perfect for photography
  8. 08Admire the exquisite architecture of the Hall of Heavenly Kings and other temple buildings
  9. 09Enjoy traditional Chinese tea at one of the lakeside teahouses
  10. 10Stroll along the winding paths and bridges that connect different sections of the park
  11. 11Watch locals practicing tai chi
  12. 12dancing
  13. 13or playing traditional musical instruments in the morning
  14. 14Visit during spring to see the beautiful cherry blossoms or autumn for golden ginkgo leaves

Good to know

Established
10th century (Liao Dynasty)
Area
69 hectares
Lake Area
39 hectares
UNESCO Status
Part of Imperial Palaces of the Ming and Qing Dynasties in Beijing and Shenyang
Main Attraction
White Dagoba (built 1651)
Architectural Style
Traditional Chinese Garden Design
Best Time to Visit
April-May and September-October
Nearest Metro
Beihai North Station (Line 6)

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