Jingshan Park: Complete Visitor's Guide

Jingshan Park, an imperial garden with over 800 years of history, offers the most spectacular panoramic view of the Forbidden City. Located directly north of the Forbidden City, this 23-hectare park features five peaks crowned with pavilions, making it one of Beijing's must-visit attractions.

Why Visit Jingshan Park

• Best panoramic views of the Forbidden City
• Historical significance as former imperial garden
• Five stunning pavilions on artificial hills
• Perfect location for sunrise and sunset photography
• Rich cultural heritage including the Ming Dynasty history

Best Viewing Spots

Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭)

The highest point in the park offers breathtaking 360-degree views:

• East: CBD area with iconic skyscrapers
• South: Complete view of the Forbidden City
• West: Beihai Park's White Pagoda and CCTV Tower
• North: Drum Tower and Olympic Tower

Recommended Routes

Route 1: South Gate Circuit

• Enter through South Gate
• Visit Emperor Chongzhen's site
• Take East side mountain path
• Reach Wanchun Pavilion
• Descend via West path
• Visit Shouhuang Temple complex
• Exit through East Gate

Route 2: West Gate Circuit

• Enter through West Gate
• Pass Science Exhibition area
• Take main mountain path
• Visit Wanchun Pavilion
• Descend via designated path
• Exit through West Gate

Opening Hours & Admission

Peak Season (April 1 - October 31)

• Park hours: 6:00 - 21:00 (Last entry at 20:30)
• Historic sites: 8:00 - 18:00 (Last entry at 17:30)
  • Shouhuang Temple
  • Guande Hall
  • Huguo Zhongyi Temple
  • Closed on Mondays except holidays

Admission Fees

• Regular season: ¥2 (Half price for eligible visitors)
• Special events: ¥10 (Half price for eligible visitors)

Transportation Guide

From Forbidden City

• 2-minute walk from Shenwu Gate to South Gate
• 15-minute walk to East Gate

Public Transportation

1. South Gate

   • Buses: 101, 103, 109, 124
   • Tourist lines: Special 1, Special 2
   • Get off at Forbidden City stop

2. East Gate

   • Buses: 111, 124, 58
   • Get off at Jingshan East Gate

3. West Gate

   • Buses: 5, 58
   • Get off at Xibanqiao Station

Visitor Services

Tourist Service Center

Located west of the South Gate entrance, offering:

• Guide services
• Wheelchair rentals
• Water dispensers
• Newspapers and magazines
• First aid supplies
• Basic sewing supplies

Photography Tips

1. Best Times

   • Sunrise for morning city views
   • Before sunset for golden hour shots
   • Clear days for best visibility

2. Equipment Recommendations

   • Telephoto lens for compressed city views
   • Tripod for stable shots
   • 3x zoom minimum for smartphone users

Essential Tips

1. Best Visiting Time

   • Early morning to avoid crowds
   • Before sunset for photography
   • Clear days for best views

2. Accessibility

   • Steep stairs throughout the park
   • Not recommended for strollers
   • Rest areas available at major viewpoints

3. Combined Visits

   • Perfect complement to Forbidden City tour
   • Can be combined with Beihai Park (3-minute walk from West Gate)
   • Consider visiting during sunset for best experience