The Nine Dragon Screen is a glazed-tile wall in Beihai Park, Beijing, built in 1756 during the Qing dynasty. Nine dragons sweep above waves on each side, their forms picked out in colorful tiles. It is a rare example of this type of imperial screen, where the dragons also carry a protective meaning. The wall sits on the park’s west side and can be easy to miss, so look for it as you explore the grounds. You need a ticket to enter Beihai Park.
A Qing-dynasty screen in Beihai Park
Built in 1756, during the reign of the Qianlong emperor, the Nine Dragon Screen stood in front of Dayuanjing Zhibao Hall. It is one of China's rare surviving screens of this kind. Its position in Beihai Park places the monument among the park's other sights, rather than as a standalone destination.
The screen is made from glazed tiles in seven colors. The dragons appear on both sides, moving above waves. Their vivid forms and the careful tilework are the main details to look for as you view the wall.
Why the dragons appear on a screen
In Chinese culture, dragons are associated with imperial power, prosperity and protection. Screen walls such as this one were built to guard palaces or sacred spaces from harmful spirits, while also serving as grand decorative works. Here, the nine dragons combine that protective role with the artistic skill of the Qing court.
The screen is on the west side of Beihai Park's lake and can be easy to miss. Allow time to explore the park around it, and check the park's entry arrangements before setting out: access to the grounds requires a ticket.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Nine Dragon Screen?
It is in Beihai Park in Beijing, on the west side of the lake.
Do you need a ticket to see the Nine Dragon Screen?
You need a ticket to enter Beihai Park, where the screen is located.
What is shown on the Nine Dragon Screen?
Nine dragons appear above waves on both sides of the glazed-tile wall.
When was the Nine Dragon Screen built?
It was built in 1756, during the reign of the Qianlong emperor.
