Jingshan Park – Scenic Relaxation in the Beijing Hilltops

Posted on November 8, 2012 by Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Through several dynasties Beijing has been a chief city in China and as a result it is full of amazing historical sites, making it one of the best places for travellers to visit. A site the country is well known for is the Forbidden City and thousands visit this famous attraction where they can admire the majesty of ancient China. Yet facing the Forbidden City is another Beijing attraction that visitors can enjoy. This is the Jingshan Park, located on the artificially made Jingshan Hill. The hill boasts beautiful scenery, and has five peaks; its uppermost point is the highest point in all of Beijing.

Jingshan Park was originally an imperial park and though it existed throughout the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties it was only opened to the public in more recent times. The park is mostly visited for the view it offers of the Forbidden City; from some points most of the city will be clearly visible. Visitors can also enjoy a view of the Bell and Drum Towers and the White Dagoba Temple from the site. On each of the five peaks there is a pavilion built by past rulers, where they made offerings to their ancestors, or honoured various figures. There were once five symbolic statues of Lord Buddha in the pavilions which were unfortunately lost during times of war.

As it was once frequented by Chinese Royalty, Jingshan Park is a very picturesque place to visit. There are various fruit trees that were planted in ancient times and today it is famous for the large amount of Peony Roses that grow on its landscapes along with many other varieties of flora, which will amaze visitors when these flowers are in bloom. In the 230,000 square metres that make up the park there are several spots where one will be able to relax, and despite its central location it is shielded from the activity in the city. On site there are exhibitions of authentic Chinese performances to watch and activities to partake in, which make a visit to Jingshan Park a truly worthwhile experience.

While at the park visitors can enjoy the beauty of imperial times, Ascott Raffles City Beijing provides luxurious serviced apartments in Beijing where visitors can enjoy exquisite modern surroundings. These serviced apartments Beijing offer a wide range of amenities which will make a stay in the city comfortable and convenient.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Jingshan Park- A Man-made Haven

Posted on October 25, 2012 by Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Situated in Beijing, Jingshan Park is a man-made hill in china. This artificial hill was built during the Ming Dynasty. There was an extensive use of manual labour and animal power in building this artificial hill and this is a fascinating fact regarding this hill. There are five peaks to the Jingshan hill and each individual peak has a pavilion which is used for leisure activities. This peaceful park is mostly popular among the elderly community as a venue for social gatherings and leisure activities. If you are looking for Beijing accommodation, there are many options available in the city. Ascott Beijing which is a luxury apartment in Beijing, is one of the top choices you have when you are touring in china.

The beautiful Views of Jingshan Park Beijing China

Posted on October 21, 2011 by Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Opened to the public in 1928 and designated a park in 1949, Jingshan Park was part of the Forbidden City. Located in the centre of Beijing city facing the Forbidden City’s Shen Wu gate, the park’s main feature is the hill in the park, the highest point in Beijing.

As a part of the Forbidden City, the park area was reportedly used for ceremonies associated with ancestor worship and other rituals. In addition, it was used for enjoyment and leisure during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties and is said to have a history of 800 years. The current park covers 57 acres. The hill, which is believed to have been constructed in 1421 from earth, was excavated to construct the imperial palace moat. The nearby canals rise up to 48 meters.

The best views of the city of Beijing and the Forbidden City are to be had from the 16th century glazed tile pavilions, built atop the five peaks of the hill. On a clear day, the 360 degree views of old and new Beijing from the highest, the Wanchun Ting Pavilion (everlasting spring pavilion) are a photographers dream. To the south are views of the roofs of the Forbidden City and the National Theater of Performing Arts. To the north are the drum and bell towers, the Schichahai and Beihai lakes in the northwest and the white Dagoba temple in the west. To the East are the new Central Business District and the CCTV Tower. Fruit trees, pines and cypresses were grown in the park and on the hill slopes, during the Ming Dynasty, which presents the beautiful natural wooded appearance it showcases today. Viewed from the former imperial palace, the five pavilions gleam amongst the greenery of the wooded man made hill. Currently the cultivated area of the park is estimated to be about 1,100 sq m.

The park has several architecturally significant buildings within it; one of which is the Qiwang pavilion at the southern entrance with its golden glazed roof that is currently used as an exhibition venue. The park has several open public spaces and wide walkways that can accommodate the throngs of site seers of today.

It is also a popular gathering place for the elderly Beijing residents, who socialize through events, which include folk dancing, singing Chinese Opera, kuai ban etc.

Although the park is at its best all year through, it certainly offers a spectacle of color from late April to mid May, when more than 200 varieties of peonies are in bloom.

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