Jingshan Park - Perfect Overlook of Forbidden City

While Jingshan Park may not be large, it offers a delightful experience for visitors. Apart from the can't-be-missed panorama of the forbidden city, you can explore ancient towers, old trees, vibrant flowers, and enjoy the sounds of local musicians playing traditional instruments. One of the most enchanting moments is watching the Forbidden City bathed in the warm hues of sunset.

Captivating Views of the Forbidden City and Beijing City

The standout feature of Jingshan Park is its stunning vistas. The central pavilion, Wanchun Pavilion, perched atop Prospect Hill, offers an exceptional viewpoint of the Forbidden City to the south, allowing you to appreciate the palace's traditional layout and magnificent architecture. As the sun sets, the russet rooftops of the Forbidden City against the distant Beijing skyline create a breathtaking spectacle. From Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭), you can also enjoy expansive views of CBD buildings to the east.

Additionally, Yifang Pavilion (辑芳亭) provides a lovely perspective of the Shouhuang Temple to the north, along with a distant glimpse of the white pagoda in Beihai Park to the north.

Admiring Historical Architecture

Shouhuang Hall (寿皇殿): Also translated as the Hall of Imperial Longevity served as a venue for displaying images of the emperors' ancestors during the Qing Dynasty. It is one of the "Five Altars and Eight Temples" of old Beijing and represents one of the highest levels of ancient Chinese architectural design. Located along the central axis, it stands as the second largest architectural complex after the Forbidden City, showcasing the grandeur and historical importance of imperial heritage in China.

Five Pavilions on the Hill (山脊五亭): Prospect Hill boasts five prominent peaks, each featuring an elegantly designed pavilion: Zhoushang Pavilion (周赏亭), Guanmiao Pavilion (观妙亭), Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭), Jifang Pavilion (辑芳亭), and Fulan Pavilion (富览亭). These pavilions display intricate architectural styles from ancient China, with Wanchun Pavilion on the central peak providing the best bird's-eye view of the surrounding landscape.

Qiwang Tower (绮望楼): Situated at the base of Jingshan Hill, Qiwang Tower was originally constructed during the Qing Dynasty to hold a memorial tablet for Confucius. Today, it functions as a cultural exhibition space for calligraphy, paintings, and porcelain. Its double-eaved, glazed tiled roof and white marble fence exemplify the grandeur of imperial architecture.

Engaging with Local Culture

Today, Jingshan Park is a beloved gathering place for locals. You'll find people engaging in daily exercises such as singing, dancing, practicing Tai Chi, playing Chinese chess, and writing with water on the pavement. This offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture, and you're welcome to join in the activities if you're interested.

Enjoying Old Trees & Colorful Flowers

Much of Jingshan Park is shaded by old trees and diverse plant species. In spring, the park hosts a spectacular peony display; in summer, lotus flowers bloom; and in autumn, chrysanthemums come to life. With over 500 species of peonies, Jingshan Park is a haven for flower enthusiasts. When the peonies are in full bloom, especially in April and May, the park transforms into a vibrant sea of colors. Other seasonal flowers include peach blossoms, jasminum nudiflorum, tulips, and roses, making spring a particularly beautiful time to visit.

4 Days Classic Beijing Tour Package (Leisure Paced)

Itinerary: Beijing
Highlights: Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace, Local Family Visit

To explore Beijing's highlights, such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall (with Mutianyu as the top recommendation), the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, and the Beijing Hutongs - plan for about 4 days, including arrival and departure.

☛ 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour Package

☛ 3 Days Beijing Essential Highlights Tour

If you have extra days, consider hiking the scenic Jinshanling Great Wall, enjoying the stunning night views of Simatai Great Wall, or visiting other sections like Huanghuacheng, Gubeikou, and Juyongguan.

☛ 4 Days Beijing Essence Tour with Simatai Great Wall Night Sightseeing

☛ 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking

Families with children should not miss Universal Beijing Resort, while museum enthusiasts should visit the National Museum of China, home to the nation's most valuable treasures.

☛ 5 Days Beijing Family-friendly Tour with Universal Studios Fun

☛ 5 Days In-depth Beijing Tour with History and Culture Discovery

As a major transportation hub, Beijing offers easy access to other top destinations in China by flight or train, such as Xi'an, Shanghai, Guilin, Chengdu, and Tibet. China Discovery provides a variety of tour packages from Beijing, or we can customize an itinerary to suit your preferences.

Recommended Beijing Tours with Other Top Cities in China:

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We have helped many global travelers enjoy their memorable wonderful trips to Beijing for the past few years. Among them, a special team of over 50 VIPKID teachers from North America traveled with us to see their dear studends in China with amazing experience in Beijing and shared us their special travel story! Travel with China Discovery to create your great China trip memories!