Beijing: Jingshan Park (景山公園, Jǐngshān)

Jingshan Park (translated as View or Prospect Hill) is an artificial hill immediately north of the Forbidden City. Jingshan Park has its origins in the Yuan dynasty. Its hill was created from earth that was excavated while building the palace moat in the Yongle Era. In the early years of the Ming dynasty, the park was known as Wansui Shan (Long Life Hill), but renamed as Jing Shan in the Qing era.

Wanchun Pavilion (万春亭, Wanchun Ting)

Back in the old days, this park was an imperial garden. It also served as feng shui purpose, protecting the Forbidden City from destruction and death. Feng shui probably ran its course (but am sure there are logical arguments) as the last Ming emperor, emperor Chongzhen hanged himself from a tree in this park when rebel troops forced their way to Beijing.

This was totally understandable why this park was restricted to imperial use, considering one can totally spy on the Forbidden City from here, specifically from Wanchun Ting.

One could combined a visit to Jingsan Park with Forbidden City as these two attractions are located close to each other. We didn't as we finished our visit in Forbidden City rather late, so this was done in the morning of another day.

Ya ya, still in the park

We found a tree with blossoming flowers!

It is now open to public, but with a small entrance fee. It appears that all parks charges an entrance fee, I've even seen a counter booth selling annual fee on another park. We were there on a Saturday morning, and had a glimpse of how locals enjoyed their weekend morning. ^ ^

Calligraphy in water



Jianzi game for adults

Skipping rope for kids

Dancing for the ladies

One last one, not in Jingshan park itself but on the bus towards Jingshan Park.

Open air barber

Side note: Code Blue was addictive!