Beihai Park
Beijing Shi
Beihai Park, located immediately northwest of Beijing's Forbidden City, is one of the oldest and largest surviving imperial gardens in China, covering approximately 71 hectares. Established originally in the 12th century during the Jin dynasty, it has evolved through successive dynasties including the Yuan, Ming, and Qing. The park is centered around Taiye Lake, which occupies over half its area, with Jade Flower Island at its heart. The island features the prominent White Dagoba, a Tibetan-style stupa built in 1651 to commemorate the visit of the 5th Dalai Lama. The park's design reflects traditional Chinese garden aesthetics inspired by famous scenic areas in Jiangnan, such as Hangzhou and Suzhou, blending natural landscapes with architectural elegance. Notable structures include the Five Dragon Pavilions, the Nine-Dragon Wall, and several Buddhist temples like the Temple of Everlasting Peace and Chanfu Temple. Beihai Park was part of the Imperial City and Western Garden and has been open to the public since 1925, offering a rich cultural and historical experience combined with serene natural beauty.
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Tip: The best time to visit Beihai Park is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the gardens are at their most vibrant. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, to avoid long queues. The park offers discounted entry for seniors, students, and children. Exploring the park early in the morning can provide a more peaceful experience and opportunities to see locals practicing tai chi and traditional exercises. Boat rentals on Taiye Lake offer a unique perspective of the park, particularly around Jade Flower Island and the White Dagoba.
Interesting facts
- •The White Dagoba on Jade Flower Island stands 40 meters tall and houses Buddhist relics including scriptures and monks' ashes.
- •The Nine-Dragon Wall in Beihai Park, built in 1402, is one of only three such walls in China and features nine dragons playing in the clouds made from glazed bricks.
- •Beihai Park inspired the lyrics of the famous Chinese children's song "Let Us Sway Twin Oars," which describes the boat ride reflecting the beautiful White Dagoba and surrounding greenery.
- •The park’s design imitates renowned scenic spots from southern China, particularly the Jiangnan region, blending elements from Hangzhou, Yangzhou, and Suzhou gardens.
- •The Hall of Received Light contains a 1.6-meter tall white jade Buddha statue gifted by a Khmer king, which was damaged during the 1900 Battle of Beijing.
History
Beihai Park originated in 1179 under Emperor Zhangzong of the Jin dynasty as a country resort with the excavation of Taiye Lake and construction of the Palace of Great Peace on Jade Flower Island.
During the Yuan dynasty, the area was redesigned and incorporated into the Imperial City of Khanbaliq.
The Ming dynasty expanded the lake into three sections known as the Northern, Central, and Southern Seas, forming part of the Western Garden within the Imperial City.
The Qing dynasty further developed the park, including the construction of the White Dagoba in 1651.
The park suffered damage during the 1900 Battle of Beijing and was rebuilt thereafter.
Since 1925, Beihai Park has been accessible to the public, transitioning from an exclusive imperial garden to a beloved urban park.
Place Guide
Jade Flower Island12th century origin, with major Qing dynasty additions
The central island in Taiye Lake, featuring the White Dagoba and surrounded by varied architectural complexes. It symbolizes the mythical Penglai fairyland and is the heart of Beihai Park's design.
White Dagoba1651
A 40-meter tall Tibetan-style stupa built in 1651 on Jade Flower Island to honor the 5th Dalai Lama's visit. It is made of white stone and decorated with sun, moon, and flame engravings. The stupa houses Buddhist relics such as scriptures, monks' robes, and ashes.
Five Dragon Pavilions1602 (Ming dynasty)
A group of five connected pavilions with pointed upswept eaves located on the north bank of the lake, built during the Ming dynasty. They are connected by bridges and serve as a popular area for cultural performances and social gatherings.
Nine-Dragon Wall1402
A glazed brick wall built in 1402 featuring nine dragons playing among clouds on both sides. It is one of only three such walls in China and is located north of the Five Dragon Pavilions.
Temple of Everlasting Peace (Yong'an Temple)Qing dynasty reconstruction in 1651
A Buddhist temple complex on Jade Flower Island featuring halls with colorful glazed tile roofs. It is located on the southern slope of the island near the White Dagoba and includes several halls such as the Bell and Drum Towers and the Fa Lun Hall.
Contact
Phone: 010 6403 3225
