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Tourism GuideA field guide to China

Beijing · Attraction

Jingshan Park Area

The highest point in central Beijing offering panoramic views of the Forbidden City and the ancient city layout

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Jingshan Park Area
Beijing, ChinaField notes · Attraction
BeijingHistoricalPanoramic ViewImperial Garden

Why go

About Jingshan Park Area

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

Make time for

Practical ideas, not a checklist

  1. 01Climb to the summit pavilion for panoramic views of the Forbidden City
  2. 02Visit the five pavilions each offering different perspectives of Beijing
  3. 03Explore the ancient cypress trees some over 800 years old
  4. 04Watch locals practicing tai chi and traditional Chinese exercises
  5. 05Visit the site where the last Ming emperor Chongzhen committed suicide
  6. 06Enjoy seasonal flower displays especially peonies in spring
  7. 07Photograph the symmetrical layout of the Forbidden City from above
  8. 08Walk through the traditional Chinese garden landscapes
  9. 09Attend morning exercise sessions with local residents
  10. 10Visit the nearby Beihai Park and Imperial City Wall Relics Park

Good to know

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

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