Jingshan Park 景山公园

Introduction

Located directly behind the back gate of the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park is famous for it’s unparalleled views over the city. Originally built as an imperial garden, it consists of five hills, on top of each of which originally stood a pavilion containing a Buddha statue. They are aligned according to the Chinese Feng Shui tradition.

While the key sights may be rather crowded on a clear day, elsewhere around the park you can enjoy relaxing under peaceful pagodas or strolling along covered walkways through the trees. With over 800 years of history, Jingshan Park is still a popular hangout for locals exercising, dancing or singing.

Must-see

Pavilion of Everlasting Spring

Located on the southernmost hilltop, this is the perfect spot for panoramic views across the Forbidden City. The best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset, for beautiful photos of the scene.

Peony Festival

In April and May each year, the park comes alive with beautiful flowers. Over 20,000 flowers are on display, from over 500 different types!

Practical info

Tickets: 2 RMB.

Opening hours: 6:30 – 20:00 (winter), 6:30 – 21:00 (summer).

Recommended visit: 2 hours.

Transport: best visited immediately after the Forbidden City as it is located across the road from the exit.
Otherwise, take metro line 5 or 6 to the Dongsi (东四) metro stop or line 4 to the Xisi (西四) metro stop, then buses 101, 103, 109, 124 or 128 to the North gate of the Forbidden City (故宫站).
Alternatively, take sightseeing buses (观光) 1 (from the Temple of Heaven), 2 (from Tiananmen) or 3 (from the Summer Palace/ Old Summer Palace).

Nearby

Tiananmen Square 天安门

Beijing, China, Must-see

Tiananmen Square 天安门

Forbidden City 故宫

Beijing, China, Must-see

Forbidden City 故宫

Great Hall of the People 人民大会堂

Beijing, China

Great Hall of the People 人民大会堂