Jingshan Park
Jingshan Park — the best panoramic view of the Forbidden City
Highlights — Why we like Jingshan Park
Intro
Jingshan Park is a small imperial garden immediately north of the Forbidden City, built on an artificial hill constructed from earth excavated during the palace's construction in the 15th century. The summit pavilion at the top of Jingshan (Coal Hill) offers the finest panoramic view of the Forbidden City's golden rooftops — the entire palace complex spread below, with the Beijing skyline beyond. It is the best vantage point in the city.
Best Time to Visit
Afternoon for golden light on the Forbidden City rooftops. Autumn for best visibility.
Getting There
Directly north of the Forbidden City's north gate (Shenwumen). Walk from the Forbidden City or Metro Line 8 to Shichahai station.
Tickets & Entry
- Typical visit
1 hour
Local Tips
The climb to the summit takes 10 minutes and is worth every step. Visit in the afternoon when the Forbidden City rooftops glow gold in the western light. The park is also a favourite with Beijing locals for morning exercise and traditional music.
More in Beijing
The Great Wall at Mutianyu
The most visitor-friendly Great Wall section — mountain scenery, cable car, toboggan
The Forbidden City
The world's largest imperial palace — 600 years of Chinese history
Temple of Heaven
Beijing's most perfect Ming Dynasty architecture — where emperors prayed for good harvests
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