Beihai Park, Beijing

Beihai Park, Beijing

Beihai Park is one of the oldest, largest and best-preserved ancient imperial gardens in China, dating back to the 11th century.

Beihai Park is one of the oldest, largest and best-preserved ancient imperial gardens in China, dating back to the 11^th century. Sprawling over an area of 171 acres, it has spots inspired by attractions in different regions of China. At the centre of the park is the Jade Flower Island with a White Dagoba tower built to commemorate the visit of the 5^th Dalai Lama in the 17^th century, that houses Buddhist Scriptures, the monk's mantle and alms bowl and two pieces of Sarira. Other Buddhist temples in the park are the Yong'an Temple (Temple of Everlasting Peace), Xiaoxitian Temple (Temple of Little Western Skies) and the Chanfu Temple. Apart from these, check out the Nine-Dragon Screen, Taishou (Longevity) Hall, and Five-Dragon Pavilion to the north, Yingcui(Viewing Foliage) Hall to the west, and Yinhe (Concentrated Harmony) Hall and Cangzhou (Lakeside) Dock.