Beihai Park is a former imperial garden in central Beijing, northwest of the Forbidden City. A large lake fills much of the grounds, with Jade Flower Island at its southern end and the White Dagoba rising above it. Walk the lakeside paths, cross the arched marble bridge and look for the Nine-Dragon Screen and Five-Dragon Pavilion. In summer, you can rent a boat; the park is also a quiet place to watch locals practise tai chi or spend time outdoors.
An imperial garden by the lake
Beihai Park lies northwest of the Forbidden City and takes its name from Beihai, or North Lake. The grounds developed over several dynasties, including the Jin, Yuan, Ming and Qing, and served as an imperial garden before opening to the public in 1925.
Water dominates the park. Beihai Lake covers more than half of its area, with willows along the shore and bridges linking paths to the island. The combination of lake, planted grounds and historic buildings gives the park its classical Chinese garden character.
Jade Flower Island and the White Dagoba
Jade Flower Island sits at the southern end of the lake and is reached by an arched marble bridge. Its White Dagoba, also called the White Pagoda, is the park’s defining landmark. The Tibetan-style structure stands above the water and can be seen from different parts of the grounds.
The island also contains temples and pavilions. The Temple of Eternal Peace is among the historic buildings here. Take time to look at the architecture as you walk uphill, then pause for views across the lake and surrounding park.
Screens, pavilions and historic buildings
The Nine-Dragon Screen is a 27-metre-long wall carved with dragons. It is one of the park’s notable details and worth seeking out beyond the lakeside route. On the northern bank, the Five-Dragon Pavilion dates to the Ming dynasty and offers another stop among the garden’s historic structures.
Round City, near the south entrance, contains a white-jade Buddha and a large jade bowl associated with Kublai Khan. The park’s buildings include religious and imperial structures, set among the lake, bridges and planted paths.
Walking, boating and seasonal scenes
A walk around the water is the simplest way to explore Beihai Park. In summer, boats move across the lake and lotus flowers bloom; boat rental gives you a view back toward the island and its White Dagoba. In winter, the lake can freeze and become a place for skating.
The park is also used by Beijing residents for everyday activities. In the morning, you may see people practising tai chi; elsewhere, locals gather to socialise or exercise. For a quieter visit, choose early morning or late afternoon. 仿膳茶社 inside the park serves traditional Chinese tea and desserts.
FAQ
Where is Beihai Park?
It is in central Beijing, northwest of the Forbidden City and near Jingshan Park.
What is the White Dagoba?
It is a Tibetan-style pagoda on Jade Flower Island, the park’s central landmark.
Can you rent a boat at Beihai Park?
Yes. Boat rides on the lake are available, with summer a popular season for boating.
How long should you spend at Beihai Park?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for a walk and the main sights. Add time if you plan to take a boat or explore more of the grounds.
