The Four Seasons' Beauty of Beihai Park, a Royal Garden

Beihai Park, a royal garden located in the heart of Beijing, is one of the oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens in China. Initially built during the Liao and Jin dynasties, it underwent expansions and renovations throughout the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, resulting in the grand scale and beautiful scenery we see today. 1. Four Seasons, Four Scenes: Experience the Charm of the Royal Garden Beihai Park offers distinct scenery in each season, each with its unique charm. Spring: As everything comes back to life, the White Pagoda on Qionghua Island is reflected in the shimmering lake. Weeping willows line the shore, peach blossoms bloom, and a vibrant scene unfolds. Summer: Lotus flowers are in full bloom, covering the lake's surface with their fragrant blossoms. It's an ideal place to escape the summer heat. Autumn: The crisp autumn air complements the fiery red maple leaves surrounding the Five-Dragon Pavilions. Against the backdrop of the blue sky and white clouds, they create a picturesque scene. Winter: Covered in snow, the White Pagoda on Qionghua Island appears even more majestic. The lake freezes over, offering visitors the chance to enjoy ice skating. 2. Must-See Attractions: Explore the Essence of the Royal Garden Beihai Park covers an area of approximately 69 hectares, with a water area of about 39 hectares. The park boasts numerous attractions, and here are some must-sees: Qionghua Island: The heart of Beihai Park, the island houses the White Pagoda, Yong'an Temple, Yuegu Tower, and other buildings. It's the best spot for a panoramic view of the park. White Pagoda: This Tibetan-style Buddhist pagoda is the iconic landmark of Beihai Park. Standing at 35.9 meters tall, its pure white structure is a magnificent sight. Five-Dragon Pavilions: These five pavilions, each built on interconnected stone bridges, are beautifully designed and offer the best views of the lotus flowers and the night scenery. Nine-Dragon Screen: This glazed screen, built during the Qing Dynasty, features nine vividly carved dragons and is considered a treasure of Beihai Park. Jingxin Zhai: This courtyard, designed in the style of a Jiangnan garden, offers a tranquil escape with its lush rockeries and winding paths. 3. Unique Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the Culture of the Royal Garden Besides admiring the scenery, Beihai Park offers various unique experiences: Boat rides: Take a leisurely boat ride on the lake, enjoying the views along the shore and experiencing the tranquility and elegance of the royal garden. Imperial snacks: Several restaurants in Beihai Park offer a variety of imperial snacks, such as Wandouhuang (pea flour cake), Yundoujuan (kidney bean rolls), and Ai Wo Wo (glutinous rice balls), allowing visitors to savor the flavors of royal cuisine. Traditional cultural performances: Beihai Park regularly hosts traditional cultural performances, such as Peking Opera and Kunqu Opera, providing visitors with a taste of Chinese traditional culture. 4. Travel Tips: Opening hours: Peak season (April 1 - October 31): 6:30 am - 9:00 pm; Off-season (November 1 - March 31): 6:30 am - 8:00 pm. Ticket prices: Peak season: 10 yuan; Off-season: 5 yuan. Transportation: Beihai Park is accessible by bus or subway. Visiting suggestions: It is recommended to allocate half a day to explore Beihai Park. Consider renting an audio guide to learn more about the historical background and stories behind the attractions. 5. Friendly Reminders: Beihai Park is quite large, so comfortable shoes are recommended. There are many steps and slopes in the park, so please be careful. Please do not litter and help protect the environment. Beihai Park is a royal garden that integrates history, culture, art, and landscaping, making it a must-visit attraction in Beijing. We hope this travel guide helps you better understand and appreciate the charm of Beihai Park.