Zhongshan Park (中山公园) is a beautiful public park located in the Xicheng District of Beijing, China. It covers an area of 23 hectares and is named after Sun Yat-sen, also known as Sun Zhongshan, the founding father of modern China. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city.
The park features a large lake, several gardens, and numerous pavilions, statues, and monuments. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake or take a boat ride to explore the park’s waterways. There are also plenty of benches and picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
One of the park’s main attractions is the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, a grand structure that serves as a tribute to the revolutionary leader. The hall features a museum with exhibits on Sun’s life and contributions to China’s history.
Zhongshan Park is also home to several temples and pagodas, including the ancient Sheji Altar and the majestic Xingguo Temple. These religious sites offer a glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage and provide a tranquil space for visitors to reflect and meditate.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Zhongshan Park
- Vlog about Beijing Zhongshan Park
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Facts about Sun Yat-sen
- Attractions near Zhongshan Park
- Other Parks in Beijing
Basic Information
| Website | http://www.zhongshan-park.cn/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 3 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 6.00 – 21.00; Last admission: 20.30 (1st April – 31st May, 1st September – 31st October) 6.00 – 22.00; Last admission: 21.00 (1st June – 31st August) 6.30 – 20.00; Last admission: 19.30 (1st November – 31st March) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-010-66055431 |
Location and Transportation
Zhongshan Park is situated just south of the Forbidden City and north of Tiananmen Square. Its exact address is No. 4 Zhonghua Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing.
If you are traveling by public transportation, there are several subway stations nearby. The closest stations are Tiananmen West on Line 1. From there, you can walk to the park’s entrance in just a few minutes.
If you are coming from farther away, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the park. Just tell the driver you are going to Zhongshan Park (中山公园), and they should be able to take you directly to the entrance.
Highlights of Zhongshan Park
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall is a grand structure located within Zhongshan Park in Beijing. It is named after Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China, was built in 1929, and serves as a tribute to the revolutionary leader. The hall features a museum with exhibits on Sun’s life and contributions to China’s history. Visitors can explore the exhibits and learn about Sun’s role in the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China.
Gardens and lakes
Zhongshan Park in Beijing is renowned for its beautiful gardens and serene lake. The park boasts numerous gardens, including the Central Garden, Rose Garden, and Peony Garden, all of which are meticulously landscaped and offer a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park’s lake is a central feature and offers boat rides and scenic walks around its perimeter. It is surrounded by weeping willows and lotus flowers, which add to the park’s tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can sit on benches and enjoy the picturesque views or bring a picnic and relax in one of the park’s many open spaces.
Sheji Altar
The Sheji Altar is a historical site located within Zhongshan Park. It was originally built in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and was used to offer sacrifices to the gods of agriculture and harvest. The altar was rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) and was used as a venue for imperial sacrifices. Today, the Sheji Altar is a popular attraction within the park and serves as a reminder of China’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture of the altar and learn about its historical significance through exhibits and informational displays located within the park.
Vlog about Beijing Zhongshan Park
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Exiting and Continuing the Journey: After exploring Zhongshan Park, consider exiting through either the east or west gate. From there, take a scenic route towards Jingshan Park. If time permits and it’s early in the day, climb to the top of Jingshan Park to enjoy panoramic views of the Forbidden City and distant landmarks such as the White Pagoda and Drum Tower. The view from the top is breathtaking and definitely worth experiencing.
Evening Activities: If your visit extends into the evening, especially on Fridays or Saturdays when the Temple of Heaven is illuminated, consider heading to the Temple of Heaven. Along the way, you’ll pass by beautifully lit structures such as the corner towers and gatehouses of the Forbidden City, offering a stunning nighttime vista.
Activities in the Park: Zhongshan Park’s southern gate features an area where elderly residents gather for various activities. You can observe or join in activities such as card games, dancing, Tai Chi, and performances by elderly bands. Additionally, there is a small patch of lawn where you can have a picnic. The water in the area is clear, and there are large fish swimming around.
Photography Tips: For the best photographic opportunities, plan your visit during specific times of the day when the lighting is optimal. The recommended time slots are between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM in the morning, and 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM in the afternoon. During these periods, the sunlight is softer and more flattering. Wearing warm-colored clothing can enhance the visual appeal of your photos when sunlight falls on you.
