Tourism GuideJingshan Park Area
The highest point in central Beijing offering panoramic views of the Forbidden City and the ancient city layout
Key Information
Built
Ming Dynasty 1420
Area
23 hectares
Height
45.7 meters above sea level
UNESCO Status
Part of Imperial Palaces of Ming and Qing Dynasties
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon for photography
Peak Season
April-May for peony blossoms
Historical Significance
Site of Ming Dynasty emperors suicide 1644
Architectural Style
Traditional Chinese imperial garden
Jingshan Park also known as Coal Hill Park is an imperial garden located directly north of the Forbidden City in Beijing Originally an imperial garden during the Yuan Ming and Qing dynasties the park was built from earth excavated to create the moats of the Forbidden City The artificial hill was created during the Ming Dynasty and served as the northern boundary of the Imperial City The parks most famous feature is its central hill with five pavilions offering breathtaking 360degree views of Beijing From the summit visitors can see the entire Forbidden City layout the modern skyline of Beijing Beihai Park and the Drum and Bell Towers The park holds historical significance as the site where the last Ming emperor Chongzhen hanged himself in 1644 Today its a peaceful oasis where locals practice tai chi dance and enjoy leisure activities amidst ancient cypress trees and traditional Chinese garden design
Things to Do
- Climb to the summit pavilion for panoramic views of the Forbidden City
- Visit the five pavilions each offering different perspectives of Beijing
- Explore the ancient cypress trees some over 800 years old
- Watch locals practicing tai chi and traditional Chinese exercises
- Visit the site where the last Ming emperor Chongzhen committed suicide
- Enjoy seasonal flower displays especially peonies in spring
- Photograph the symmetrical layout of the Forbidden City from above
- Walk through the traditional Chinese garden landscapes
- Attend morning exercise sessions with local residents
- Visit the nearby Beihai Park and Imperial City Wall Relics Park
