Beihai Park is Beijing’s tranquil inner-city oasis with shady trees, ever-changing flower exhibits and sacred buildings. This is one of the finest, and largest, examples of inner-city Chinese imperial gardens. Beihai mimics varying landscapes from different regions of China, so a visit here will give you a sense of the country’s diverse scenery in just a few hours.
Beihai Park was first built during the Liao Dynasty in the 10th century. Subsequent emperors have added to it. Most of the surviving buildings were erected under the reign of Qianlong Emperor of the Qing Dynasty, which ended just over 100 years ago.
Explore the meticulously maintained grounds of this historical royal park. Walk or cycle around the botanical gardens, enter centuries-old temples and pavilions, and watch locals as they exercise or play. They often also sing and dance for the gathering crowds. In winter, the ice-skating rink is fun for children.
Beihai is Mandarin for “North Sea” and more than half of the park is a lake. Rent a boat from one of the park’s piers to circle the man-made islets. On Jade Flowery Islet, admire the park’s famous landmark: A 1651 Tibetan shrine known as the White Dagoba. Cross the Doushan Bridge to the eastern shore and admire the Painted Boat Studio and the idyllic Hao Pu Creek Garden.
Don’t miss the eye-catching Nine-Dragon Wall on the northern shore of the lake. In the park’s southwestern corner, visit the Circular City with its large stone walls, towers, pavilions and Buddha statue.
Beihai Park is located in the Xicheng District, just northwest of the Forbidden City. The public park, which has on-site restaurants, is open daily. The park is open longer after dark in spring and summer. There is a small admission fee.
Get to the park on foot, or by bike or public transport. You can hire an English-speaking tour guide to take you there. Just outside the northern gate is a bike rental outlet.
Beihai Park
Visit Beihai Park
Tours & day trips
See all 290 activitiesOpens in new tabGreat Wall at Badaling, Forbidden City, TAM Square Day Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 27 activitiesOpens in new tabPrivate Tour: Great Wall at Badaling & Ming Tomb with Lunch
Shows & concerts
See all 17 activitiesOpens in new tabBeijing Roast Duck Banquet & Acrobatic Show Evening Tour
Classes & workshops
See all 8 activitiesOpens in new tab3-Hour Private Tour of Hutong, Calligraphy Class and Peking Duck
Attractions
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabBeijing Forbidden City Admission Ticket Pre Booking Service
Popular places to visit
Jingshan Park
Get the best views of central Beijing, the Forbidden City and the White Dagoba in Beihai Park from the hill in this former royal garden.
Jingshan Table Tennis Park
Explore the great outdoors at Jingshan Table Tennis Park, a lovely green space in Beijing. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and shops in this culturally rich area.
Palace of Gathered Elegance
You can browse the exhibits at Palace of Gathered Elegance, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Beijing. Visit the temples and shops in this culturally rich area.
Palace of Earthly Tranquillity
You can find out about the history of Beijing with a visit to Palace of Earthly Tranquillity. Visit the temples and shops in this culturally rich area.
The Round City
Explore the great outdoors at The Round City, a lovely green space in Beijing. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this culturally rich area.
Wenjin Street
You can learn about the history of Beijing with a visit to Wenjin Street. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and shops in this culturally rich area.