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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