Old Summer Palace Ruins Park

Located at 28 Qinghua West Road, Haidian District, Beijing, the Old Summer Palace Ruins Park is a place imbued with profound historical memory and modern humanism. Once known as the "Garden of Ten Thousand Gardens," the Old Summer Palace witnessed both the glory and humiliation of the Qing Dynasty. Today, it stands in silent solemnity, narrating its stories to the world. Upon entering the park, visitors are immediately struck by its vast expanse and intricate landscaping. Despite the ravages of war, the waterways and trees remain vibrant, with rows of willows and fields of lotus leaves offering a tranquil retreat. Winding paths lead to secluded areas, where man-made mounds rise and fall, and lakes dot the landscape, each seemingly concealing historical secrets. The Western Mansions Ruins Scenic Area is the jewel of the Old Summer Palace. Here, more than ten exquisite buildings and gardens, including the Xieqiqu (Harmony and Interest), Xianfa Bridge (Bridge of Perspective), Wanhuazhen (Maze), Haiyantang (Hall of Calm Seas), and Dashuifa (Grand Fountain), showcase a blend of exotic charm and historical significance. Although most of these structures are now in ruins, they silently speak of past glories and present decay. The few remaining stone pillars of the Grand Fountain stand as a stark reminder of a painful history. The twelve bronze animal heads of the Haiyantang, once part of a water-powered clock, serve as a testament to the rise and fall of the Old Summer Palace. Beyond the Western Mansions Ruins, the Zhengjue Temple is another must-visit site within the Old Summer Palace. As the only surviving ancient architectural complex after numerous calamities, Zhengjue Temple now houses the Old Summer Palace Museum, exhibiting a rich collection of ancient architecture and artifacts. Here, visitors can delve into the history and culture of the Old Summer Palace, experiencing a period marked by both humiliation and resistance. The Old Summer Palace is a year-round destination. In spring, flowers bloom in vibrant profusion; in summer, the fragrance of lotus blossoms fills the air; in autumn, the ginkgo avenue transforms into a golden spectacle; and in winter, the lake's surface mirrors the serene surroundings. Each season offers its unique charm, attracting countless visitors. In summary, the Old Summer Palace Ruins Park is a destination that combines history, culture, nature, and humanism. It not only reminds us to remember the past but also to cherish the present and strive for a better future. For those interested in history and culture, this is an unmissable destination.