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Beijing · Attraction

Fragrant Hills Park

A magnificent imperial garden and one of Beijings most famous autumn destinations renowned for its breathtaking red maple leaves

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Fragrant Hills Park
Beijing, ChinaField notes · Attraction
BeijingAutumn FoliageImperial GardenHiking

Why go

About Fragrant Hills Park

Fragrant Hills Park also known as Xiangshan Park is a sprawling imperial garden located at the eastern foot of the Western Hills in Beijing Covering an area of 160 hectares this scenic park was originally built in 1186 during the Jin Dynasty and later expanded during the Yuan Ming and Qing dynasties The park gets its name from the large incense burner shaped peak that resembles a censer emitting fragrant smoke at sunrise and sunset The most famous feature of Fragrant Hills Park is its spectacular autumn foliage when thousands of maple trees turn brilliant shades of crimson orange and gold creating a breathtaking sea of red leaves that has inspired poets and artists for centuries Beyond the autumn spectacle the park offers numerous historical sites including ancient temples pavilions and the remains of imperial palaces The park also features the Fragrant Hills Hotel designed by renowned architect IM Pei which beautifully blends modern architecture with traditional Chinese garden design

Make time for

Practical ideas, not a checklist

  1. 01Hike to the summit of Incense Burner Peak for panoramic views of Beijing
  2. 02Photograph the spectacular autumn foliage especially the famous red maple leaves
  3. 03Visit the Azure Clouds Temple a well preserved Buddhist temple complex
  4. 04Explore the Fragrant Hills Hotel designed by architect IM Pei
  5. 05Walk through the Double Pines Garden with its ancient pine trees
  6. 06Visit the Glazed Pagoda an octagonal seven story pagoda from the Qing Dynasty
  7. 07Enjoy the cable car ride for aerial views of the autumn colors
  8. 08Explore the Exhibition Hall of Fragrant Hills Revolutionary History
  9. 09Walk along the ancient paths used by emperors and court officials
  10. 10Visit the Fragrant Hills Snow scenic area for winter photography

Good to know

Best Time to Visit
Mid October to Early November for autumn foliage
Park Size
160 hectares
Established
1186 AD Jin Dynasty
Main Attraction
Autumn Red Leaves
Highest Point
Incense Burner Peak 557 meters
UNESCO Status
Part of Beijing Imperial Gardens
Architectural Style
Traditional Chinese Garden Design
Historical Period
Jin Yuan Ming Qing Dynasties

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