Introduction
Tucked away in the centre of town right next to the Forbidden City, Zhongshan Park is full of beautiful pagodas, temples and archways. It’s also a great place to catch locals dancing, singing or doing martial arts exercises – and you’re usually very welcome to join in!
This local park is often overlooked by visitors to Beijing, but it’s the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
Don’t miss
Alter of Land and Grain
Not the most exciting to look at, but of great historical and cultural interest, the Alter of Land and Grain consists of a large raised square on which different types of earth are embedded in a simple pattern. It was the site of sacrifices during the Mong and Qing dynasties. Nearby you can explore the stores, kitchens and butchering pavilion – where animals were prepared and killed as offerings.
Zhongshan Hall
Located to the North of the park, the Zhongshan Hall used to contain the remains of Dr Sun Yat-sen (the famous revolutionary after whom the park is named – his Mandarin name being Shun Zhongshan) and was where the emperors would come to pray. It is a spectacular example of Ming dynasty architecture, and one of the most intact in China.
Spring Flowers
Huge flowerbeds of tulips and cherry blossom trees burst into colour during springtime, making the park a beautiful place to enjoy an afternoon stroll.
Practical info
Tickets: 3 RMB.
Opening hours: 6:00 – 20:00 (winter), 6:00 – 22:00 (summer).
Recommended visit: 1 hour.
Transport: take metro line 1 to Tiananmen West (天安门西 – exit B).
Top tip: there is also a side entrance just to the East of the Forbidden City ticket office.
Nearby
Tiananmen Square 天安门
Tiananmen Square 天安门
Forbidden City 故宫
Forbidden City 故宫
Great Hall of the People 人民大会堂
Great Hall of the People 人民大会堂
National Museum of China 中国国家博物馆
Jingshan Park 景山公园
Jingshan Park 景山公园
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