Beihai Park

Beijing, China

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Beihai Park in Beijing is a serene masterpiece of classical Chinese landscape design, steeped in over a thousand years of imperial history. Located just northwest of the Forbidden City, it was once part of the royal gardens and is now one of the oldest and best-preserved imperial parks in China.

The park spans about 71 hectares, with more than half of that area covered by the tranquil waters of Beihai Lake. At its heart lies Jade Flower Island, crowned by the iconic White Dagoba—a Tibetan-style stupa built in 1651 to honor the visit of the 5th Dalai Lama. From its summit, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the lake and surrounding cityscape.

The island is also home to Yong’an Temple and a series of pavilions and halls that reflect a blend of Buddhist symbolism and Qing dynasty aesthetics. Elsewhere in the park, you’ll find the famous Nine-Dragon Wall, a vibrant glazed-tile screen from the Ming dynasty, and the Five-Dragon Pavilions, which stretch out over the lake like a dragon’s spine.

The Circular City near the south gate houses a jade Buddha from Burma and a massive jade wine vessel once used by Kublai Khan.