I still remember the first time I visited Jing Shan Park with my parents when I was five years old. It was the first time I learned that Jing Shan Hill was man-made, and I was struck by the impressive scene when we reached the top and looked down at the Forbidden City.
Since then, I have visited the park hundreds of times after becoming a tour guide 23 years ago. I enjoy wandering around Jing Shan Park very much. It's not large; you can easily walk around it in about an hour.
Jing Shan Park is a must-visit destination for you if you're looking to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of traditional Chinese culture. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply finding a peaceful spot to relax, this park has something to offer you.
Hello, I'm David. Born and raised in Beijing, I'm passionate about sharing the city's vibrant history, culture, and hidden gems. From the Forbidden City to lively Hutongs, I bring Beijing's stories to life with engaging narratives and insider insights. Whether you're into history, food, or adventure, Beijing has something special for you.
Content Preview
What to See in Jing Shan Park
- A Tranquil Oasis Near the Forbidden City
Located in the busy heart of Beijing, right next to the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park is a peaceful place where you can escape the city's noise. It has beautiful green trees and a calm atmosphere, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors to relax after visiting the Forbidden City.
Jingshan parkOne special thing about the park is its ancient cypress trees, some of which are over 600 years old. These tall trees provide shade and peace, and their twisted branches and trunks make the park even more charming.
- Panoramic Views of the Forbidden City
Standing in the famous Wanchun Pavilion in Jing Shan Park, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Forbidden City and the surrounding area on clear days. Wanchun Pavilion is the best spot for taking photos.
Our guide David looked at the panoramic view of the Forbidden City in Jingshan Park- A Great Place to Learn About Chinese Feng Shui (风水)
As mentioned earlier, the hill is man-made. You may wonder why an artificial hill was constructed behind the Forbidden City during the Ming dynasty. The ultimate reason lies in Feng Shui.
Feng Shui, which translates to "wind-water" in English, is an ancient Chinese practice that involves arranging the environment to harmonize with the natural world and promote the flow of positive energy, or "qi." It is based on the Taoist understanding of nature, particularly the belief that the land is alive and filled with energy.
According to Feng Shui theory, an ideal site for Forbidden City building a house features water in front and a mountain or hill behind. This is why a stream was constructed in front of Tian'anmen, with Jing Shan Hill located behind the Forbidden City.
Tian'anmen- Appreciate Its Historical Significance
You can explore the most significant tree where the last Ming emperor committed suicide by hanging himself.
The tree where Emperor Sizong of the Ming Dynasty hanged himselfTop Photo Spots in Jing Shan Park
- Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭):
Our guests at Wanchun PavilionThis is the highest point in Jing Shan Park, and it takes about 10-15 minutes to walk there from the foot of the hill. From Wanchun Pavilion, you can overlook the entire Forbidden City, as well as see the White Pagoda in Beihai Park, the Drum Tower, the Bell Tower, the Olympic Tower, and other iconic buildings in Beijing.
The panoramic views of the Forbidden City
The White Pagoda of Beihai Park seen from Jingshan ParkSunset is an excellent time for panoramic shots of the Forbidden City. However, it can get crowded, and you may need to queue for a good spot.
Panorama of the Forbidden City at sunsetWanchun Pavilion is also a great spot to capture classic images of ancient and modern architecture together.
A image of ancient and modern architecture together- Shouhuangdian (寿皇殿):
ShouhuangdianThis area features the same red walls and yellow tiles as the Forbidden City. Located deeper within the park, it attracts far fewer visitors. You can experience a sense of tranquility and peace that transcends time.
It's a perfect spot for beautiful photos, especially if you wear traditional Qing dynasty clothing for a photoshoot.
Our guests experience Qing Dynasty costumesRecommended Jingshan Park Tour
Contact us to make an itinerary based on your requirements
Best Time to Visit Jing Shan Park
The best time to visit Jing Shan Park is from March to October. During these months, you can see beautiful landscapes and colorful flowers, like peonies and Chinese roses, all in bloom.
Flowers in Jinshan parkHowever, there are some good and bad things to consider. In peak season, you might have to wait in long lines at the ticket office. If you want to avoid the crowds, visiting from November to February is a great idea. You can also enjoy a stunning view of the Forbidden City, especially on snowy days, from December to January.
Panorama of the Forbidden City in the snowUnlike many tourist spots in Beijing, you can buy tickets right at the park without needing to book online. The entrance fee is only CNY 2, and the park is open every day from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
It's usually better to enjoy the view during the day rather than at night. If you visit on Fridays, Saturdays, or public holidays, you might want to go to the top of Jing Shan Hill in the evening to see the night view. From Jing Shan Park, you can see the Shenwumen of the Forbidden City lit up, usually between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
How to Get to Jing Shan Park
The best way to get to Jing Shan Park is to walk a few minutes from the north gate of the Forbidden City. An underground tunnel connects the north gate of the Forbidden City to the entrance of the park. Vehicles, including taxis, are not allowed to park between the park and the city, and there is no adjacent metro station.
A Classic City Walk including Jingshan Park
- Route: Shichahai Lake - Yinding Bridge - Houhai Bar Street - Beihai Park - Jingshan Park - Forbidden City
- Duration: 2-3 hours
This route is a feast for the eyes. Start at Shichahai Lake, a picturesque area surrounded by ancient architecture and lush greenery. You can rent a boat or simply stroll along the lake's edges. Yinding Bridge, with its elegant arch, is a great spot for photos.
Shichahai LakeNext, explore the bars and cafes lining Houhai Bar Street.
Houhai Bar StreetBeihai Park, with its tranquil lakes and ancient pavilions, offers a peaceful retreat.
Beihai ParkAs you climb Jingshan Mountain, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Forbidden City.
This walk is perfect for those who love beautiful scenery and want to capture stunning photos. The golden ginkgo leaves on the ground and the red walls create an intoxicating atmosphere.
If you like to explore more charm of Beijing by walking, see our Top 5 Beijing City Walks.
Discover Beijing with Travel China
If you're captivated by Jing Shan Park, explore more of Beijing with Travel China! Our private Beijing tours provide a personalized experience, letting you discover iconic landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace. With expert local guides and tailored itineraries, you'll enjoy an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you're interested in the Forbidden City, local cuisine, or the Great Wall, we have you covered. Book your private tour today and experience the magic of Beijing!
