Jingshan Park

Location and How to Get There

Jingshan Park is located right in the heart of Beijing, just north of the famous Forbidden City. If you’re visiting the Forbidden City, you can easily walk to Jingshan Park through its north gate. For those using public transport, you can take the subway to Tiananmen East Station (Line 1) or Nanluoguxiang Station (Line 6) and walk for about 10-15 minutes. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also convenient options if you prefer direct transportation.

Natural Scenery

Jingshan Park is a beautiful escape from the bustling city. The park is centered around Jingshan Hill, an artificial hill made from the soil dug out during the construction of the Forbidden City’s moat. The hill offers a peaceful green space with well-maintained gardens, ancient trees, and seasonal flowers. In spring, the park is filled with blooming peonies and cherry blossoms, while autumn brings vibrant golden and red leaves. The hill’s summit is the highlight, providing a panoramic view of Beijing, including the Forbidden City and the modern skyline.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Jingshan Park has a rich history dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It was originally a private imperial garden for the royal family. The park’s name, “Jingshan,” means “Prospect Hill,” referring to its role as a vantage point for the emperors to oversee their kingdom.

One of the most famous stories associated with the park is the tragic end of the last Ming emperor, Chongzhen. In 1644, as rebel forces stormed Beijing, he hanged himself on a tree in Jingshan Park. Today, a marker commemorates this event, offering a glimpse into China’s dramatic history.

Facilities and Amenities

The park is well-equipped for visitors. There are clean restrooms, benches for resting, and small kiosks selling snacks and drinks. For those interested in learning more, informational signs are placed throughout the park, explaining its history and significance. The park is also wheelchair accessible, with paved paths leading up to the hill.

Visitor Experience

Visiting Jingshan Park is a refreshing experience. It’s a place where locals come to relax, practice tai chi, or fly kites, giving you a chance to see everyday life in Beijing. The climb to the top of the hill is gentle and takes about 10-15 minutes, making it suitable for all ages. Once at the summit, the view is breathtaking, especially at sunrise or sunset when the Forbidden City’s rooftops glow in the golden light.

The park is less crowded compared to other major attractions in Beijing, making it a peaceful spot to unwind after exploring the Forbidden City. It’s also a great place for photography, with its mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Tips for Visiting

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Duration: Spend about 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the park.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and water.
Combined Visit: Pair your trip with a visit to the Forbidden City, as they are right next to each other.

Jingshan Park is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Beijing. It’s not just a park—it’s a place where history, culture, and nature come together, offering a unique perspective on the city.

Basic Trip Information of Jingshan Park

Play Time:

1-3 Hours

Traffic:

To reach the East Gate: Take bus 111 or 124 and get off at the Jing Shan East Gate Station. To reach the South Gate: Take bus 101, 103, 109, 124, Sightseeing Line 2, Sightseeing Line 3, or Sightseeing Line 3 and get off at the Shenwu Gate Station. To reach the West Gate: Take bus 5 or 58 and get off at the Xibanqiao Station.

Ticket:

Jingshan Park Ticket Information

Regular Ticket Prices:

Adult Ticket: 2 RMB (January 1 - December 31, Monday - Sunday)
Concession Ticket: 1 RMB (January 1 - December 31, Monday - Sunday)

Concession Ticket Eligibility:

Children aged 6 (excluding) to 18 (including) with valid ID.
Social security recipients with a valid social security card.
Full-time undergraduate and below students with a valid student ID.

Free Admission Eligibility:

Seniors aged 60 and above from other provinces/cities or foreign tourists with valid ID, passport, or Beijing Senior Citizen Card (Beijing seniors with their senior citizen card).
Children aged 6 (including) or below or under 1.2 meters in height (excluding).
Disabled individuals with a disability certificate.
Retirees with a retirement certificate.
Active military personnel, disabled military personnel, retired military personnel, and armed police officers with a valid military ID or disability certificate.

Special Notes:

On Children’s Day (June 1), children are admitted free of charge.
For group visits by children and elementary school students, accompanying teachers (up to 10% of the number of children) are also admitted free.
For preschool children, each child can bring one parent or guardian in for free.

The above information is for reference only. Please refer to the actual announcements at the park on the day of your visit.

Open Time:

Opening Hours:

April 1 - October 31: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Monday - Sunday)
November 1 - March 31: 6:30 AM - 8:00 PM (Monday - Sunday)

Note: The park operates daily throughout the year. Opening times vary seasonally.

Nearby Attractions To Jingshan Park

The Hall Of Supreme Harmony

Distance: 0.02 KM

The grand entrance to the outer court of the Forbidden City, built during the Ming Dynasty, features a pair of massive bronze lions and leads to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where emperors held court.

Hall Of Great Harmony

Distance: 0.25 KM

The grandest palace in China, adorned with gold, features a lavish throne and intricate dragon motifs. Known for its ceremonial significance, it’s the heart of the Forbidden City.

The Hall of Mental Cultivation

Distance: 0.54 KM

Located in Beijing's Forbidden City, this Ming-era palace was the first to feature glass windows. It housed the emperor's throne, secret meeting rooms, and even served as Empress Dowager Cixi's political base.

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