Zhongshan Park
Zhongshan Park, Beijing’s oldest public park, was once the Ming and Qing dynasties’ “Altar of Earth and Grain” (Shejitan). Built in 1421 under Emperor Yongle, it honored agricultural traditions until 1914, when it transformed into China’s first public garden. Today, it blends imperial history with urban serenity, featuring ancient pavilions, a 500-year-old cypress forest, and monuments to China’s revolutionary heroes.
Historical Overview
Originally constructed in 1421 as part of the Forbidden City’s sacred complex, the altar featured five-colored soil (symbolizing China’s unity) and was used for imperial harvest rituals. After the 1911 Revolution, it renamed to “Zhongshan Park” in 1928 in honor of Sun Yat-sen. The park later hosted cultural exhibitions and became a gathering place for intellectuals. Notable events include the 1949 founding ceremony of the China Artists Association and annual chrysanthemum festivals since 1954.
Structural Layout
The park centers on the Shejitan Altar, surrounded by:
Five-Color Soil Terrace: A Ming-era platform with soil from China’s five cardinal directions.
Xili Pavilion: A Qing-era ritual pavilion for observing sacrifices.
Baohepingfang (Peace-Preserving Arch): A 1918 monument commemorating World War I Chinese laborers.
Key structures include the Lanting Pavilion (replicating Shaoxing’s literary landmark), Tanghuawu Orchid Pavilion (a 1915 greenhouse), and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (1947).
Major Attractions
Shejitan Altar: Admire the five-colored soil mound and surrounding marble carvings.
Baopeipingfang: A 1918 triumphal arch dedicated to Chinese soldiers killed in WWI.
Cypress Forest: A 500-year-old grove with “Imperial Cypresses” planted during the Ming Dynasty.
Lanting Pavilion: A replica of the Eastern Jin Dynasty’s calligraphy sanctuary, featuring stone rubbings.
Tanghuawu: A glass-domed greenhouse showcasing rare orchids and chrysanthemums.
Sun Yat-sen Statue: A 1925 bronze monument of the “Father of Modern China.”
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (1 hour):
South Gate → Shejitan Altar → Five-Color Soil → Lanting Pavilion → Sun Yat-sen Statue → Exit via East Gate.
- Culture Route (1.5 hours):
Add Baopeipingfang, Cypress Forest, and the Tanghuawu greenhouse.
- History Route (2 hours):
Include the Xili Pavilion, Ming-era stele garden, and 1949 murals.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via “Beijing Zhongshan Park” WeChat mini-program (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at all gates; limited queues.
- Prices:
Peak Season (Mar–Nov): ¥3 (adults), ¥1.50 (students/seniors).
Off-Season (Dec–Feb): ¥2 (adults), ¥1 (students/seniors).
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
Subway: Line 1 to Tiananmen West Station (Exit B), 5-minute walk to South Gate.
Bus: Routes 1, 5, 52, 99, or 120 to Tiananmen West Stop.
Taxi: Direct to South Gate (closest to Shejitan) or East Gate (near Forbidden City).
Best Time & Tips
Crowds: Avoid weekends; visit early (6:30 AM opening) for quiet reflection.
Weather: Spring (Apr–May) for cherry blossoms; autumn (Oct) for golden cypress leaves.
Essentials: Wear comfy shoes (1.5-hour loop); bring water (limited vendors).
Prohibited: Drones, loudspeakers, and climbing historical structures.
