Beijing Jingshan Park Travel Guide: 2 Yuan Admission, Panoramic Views of the Forbidden City
This guide introduces one of Beijing’s most unique parks—Beijing Jingshan Park.
With extremely affordable admission, it offers an unparalleled viewing platform overlooking the entire Forbidden City. Below is the most practical information to help you plan your visit.
Table of Contents
Essential Pre-trip Info: Admission, Transportation & Hours
Admission
- Standard Ticket: ¥2 (No reservation required; purchase on-site)
- Special Exhibitions: Occasional bonsai displays during summer; ¥10 admission
Hours: Daily 6:00 AM–9:00 PM
Main Entrances: East Gate or West Gate
Public Transportation
- East Gate Access: Take Bus 124 and alight at “Jingshan East Street” Stop.
- West Gate Entry: Take Bus 5 or 58 and get off at the “Xibanqiao” stop.
Key Attractions and Tour Route in Beijing Jingshan Park
Upon entering the park, follow this smooth route to visit the following core attractions.
1. Site of Emperor Chongzhen’s Suicide
- Location: Turn right from the park entrance and walk approximately 5 minutes.
- Highlights: This site marks where Zhu Youjian (Emperor Chongzhen), the last Ming emperor, took his own life. It symbolizes the Ming emperors’ virtue of “defending the nation and sharing its fate.”
2. Guanyao Pavilion
Continue following the signs to reach Guanyao Pavilion.
Highlights: An ideal resting spot offering a rare opportunity to capture both the Forbidden City and the modern National Centre for the Performing Arts in a single frame—a truly unique blend of ancient and modern architecture.
3. Wanchun Pavilion (Mountain Summit)
Continue climbing to reach the peak of Jingshan Hill—Wanchun Pavilion.
Highlights:
This marks the highest point along Beijing’s central axis. Below, you’ll find the marker for the “Center Point of Beijing City.”
Looking south from here, you can overlook the entire Forbidden City, offering spectacular views. This is an essential photo spot for any visit to Beijing.
4. Jifang Pavilion
Descending from the west side of the summit, you’ll pass Jifang Pavilion.
Highlights: From the northwest side of the pavilion, you can capture excellent shots of the White Pagoda in Beihai Park. At sunset, the White Pagoda bathed in the evening glow creates a particularly beautiful scene.
Visitor Tips
- Combined Tour: If you have the stamina, exit through the West Gate of Jingshan Park, cross the street, and walk straight for about 5 minutes to reach the East Gate of Beihai Park. You can purchase tickets to continue your tour.
- Leisurely Exploration: The park is moderately sized. A relaxed pace with photo stops takes approximately 1.5-2 hours.
- Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip early in the morning or late in the afternoon, near closing time, to avoid crowds. The city lights at dusk also create a particularly beautiful atmosphere.
In summary, Beijing’s Jingshan Park stands out as a highly cost-effective and unmissable destination for exploring Beijing, offering unparalleled views and rich historical significance. For just 2 yuan, you’ll gain an unforgettable experience that bridges ancient and modern times.
