Prince Gong Mansion, also known as Prince Kung’s Mansion (恭王府 gong wang fu), is a historic mansion located in the Xicheng District of Beijing, China. It was originally built in the 18th century as a private residence for He Shen, a powerful official during the Qing dynasty. However, in 1851, the mansion was acquired by Prince Gong, the younger brother of the Xianfeng Emperor, who extensively renovated and expanded it into the grand complex that it is today.
The mansion covers an area of over 60,000 square meters and is divided into two main sections: the formal section and the living quarters. The formal section contains numerous halls and pavilions that were used for official ceremonies and important meetings. The living quarters, on the other hand, were where the prince and his family lived and entertained guests.
The architecture of the mansion is a blend of traditional Chinese and Western styles, with intricate carvings, colorful murals, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Some of the highlights of the mansion include the Rear Screen Building, the Nanmu Hall, and the exquisite garden.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Transportation and Location
- Highlights of Prince Gong’s Mansion
- Map and Recommended Route
- Vlog about Prince Gong’s Mansion
- Popular Restaurants near Prince Gong’s Mansion
- Photography Spots and Tips
- History of Prince Gong’s Mansion
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions near Prince Gong Mansion
Basic Information
| Website | https://www.pgm.org.cn/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | Adult: 40 RMB Senior citizens over 60 years old and adolescents between 6 and 18: 20 RMB Children under 6 years old or below 1.2 meters: free |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 17.00; Last admission: 16.10 Closed on Mondays |
| Telephone Number | 0086-010-83288149 |
Transportation and Location
Prince Gong Mansion is located at No. 17, Qianhai West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, China. It is in the heart of old Beijing, close to several other historical landmarks and attractions, such as Houhai Lake, Beihai Park, and the Forbidden City.
The mansion is surrounded by a beautiful and peaceful neighborhood, which provides a stark contrast to the bustling and chaotic modern city that Beijing has become. The streets around the mansion are narrow and winding, lined with traditional Chinese courtyard houses and old trees. There are also several small shops and restaurants in the area that offer a taste of local Beijing cuisine.
Bus: Take bus No. 3, 4, 13, 42, 107, 111, 118, or 612, get off at Beihai Beimen Stop (North Gate of Beihai Park), walk about 600 meters to the northwest to reach the entrance of the mansion.
Subway: Take subway line 6, get off at Beihaibei Station (North to Beihai Park), get out of the station from exit B, walk along Longtoujing Alley (龙头井街) for about 300 meters to reach the entrance.
Highlights of Prince Gong’s Mansion
Central Route Architecture
Yin’an Hall (Silver Peace Hall)
Often referred to as the “Silver Throne Hall,” Yin’an Hall is the principal building of Prince Gong’s Mansion. This grand hall, serving ceremonial purposes, was only opened during significant events and festivals. Unfortunately, the original Yin’an Hall and the entire courtyard, including the east and west wings, were destroyed by a fire during the Lantern Festival in 1921 due to incense burning. The current Yin’an Hall courtyard is a reconstruction, faithfully preserving the grandeur and style of the original structure.
Jiale Hall (Hall of Family Happiness)
Dating back to the era of He Shen, a prominent Qing dynasty official, Jiale Hall still bears the plaque inscribed with its name. It’s believed that this plaque was a gift from Emperor Qianlong to He Shen, although there is no definitive proof due to the lack of inscriptions or seals. He Shen’s own collection of poems, “Jiale Hall Poetry Collection,” suggests the hall was named by him. During the tenure of Prince Gong, Jiale Hall was primarily used for ancestral worship, housing tablets of ancestors and various deities, making it a significant spiritual center within the mansion.
Houzhaolou (Rear Screen Building)
Also known as the Treasure Building, Houzhaolou is situated at the junction between the mansion and its gardens. Stretching over 180 meters, it is the longest building of its kind in any princely residence in China, earning it the title of “treasure” among the “Three Uniques and One Treasure” of Prince Gong’s Mansion. The building boasts “99 and a half rooms,” a design inspired by the Forbidden City‘s 9999 and a half rooms.
Houzhaolou’s rear wall features 44 unique pattern windows, each with distinct designs. The sheer number of these windows was a practical choice by He Shen to accommodate his vast collection of treasures. When He Shen needed to retrieve an item, he could identify its location based on the corresponding window pattern, a clever method reflecting his immense wealth and the building’s original purpose as a treasure repository.
Western Route Architecture
Baoguang Room (Room of Preserved Light)
Located on the western route of the mansion, Baoguang Room served as a guest room during the times of He Shen and Prince Qing. Under Prince Gong, it was used as a secret reception room for close relatives of the prince. The plaque bearing the name “葆光室” was inscribed by Emperor Xianfeng when he visited the mansion, and it carries profound meaning. The term “Baoguang” is derived from the ancient Chinese text “Zhuangzi,” which means “to preserve one’s light.” The emperor’s inscription was a subtle admonition to Prince Gong to remain humble and discreet. In response, Prince Gong wrote an essay, “Baoguang Room Inscription,” indicating his understanding of the emperor’s message.
Xijin Studio (Nanmu Hall)
At the far end of the western route lies Xijin Studio, known as “Jiale Hall” during He Shen’s era and “Qingyi Hall” under Prince Qing and Prince Gong. It was renamed “Xijin Studio” during the time of the young Prince Pu Wei, due to the presence of the prized “平复贴” calligraphy by the renowned Jin dynasty scholar Lu Ji.
Xijin Studio was He Shen’s residence and is notable for its luxurious interior, crafted from rare golden nanmu wood. This hall was implicated in He Shen’s twenty major crimes, specifically for its extravagance beyond imperial regulations. The golden nanmu wood, known for its resistance to decay, and the superior craftsmanship of the woodwork make the studio a marvel of opulence. The floor is paved with golden bricks, a type of volcanic rock that, when polished, reveals golden patterns, harmonizing with the intricately carved nanmu wood to create a dazzling display of wealth and artistry.
Eastern Route Architecture
Duo Fu Xuan (Hall of Many Blessings)
Known as the “Wisteria Courtyard” during the time of Prince Gong, Duo Fu Xuan served as the main reception hall for daily visitors, friends, and subordinates. The name “Duo Fu Xuan,” meaning “Hall of Many Blessings,” was bestowed by Emperor Xianfeng, signifying a place of abundant happiness. The hall was used to entertain guests and store gifts from the emperor.
The central feature of Duo Fu Xuan is a plaque inscribed with the words “同德延禧,” which can be translated as “Harmony Extends Happiness.” This was a reminder to the owner that harmony with the emperor would bring long-lasting fortune and prosperity. Surrounding the room, near the ceiling, are plaques featuring the Chinese characters for “福” (happiness) and “寿” (longevity), written on red diamond-shaped papers and arranged in pairs, emphasizing the theme of blessings and longevity.
Le Dao Tang (Hall of Joyful Way)
Located in the fourth courtyard on the eastern route of the mansion, Le Dao Tang was the main residence of Prince Gong, following the Qing Dynasty custom of the most important family members living in the eastern section of a compound. Prince Gong renamed this hall “Le Dao Tang” and referred to himself as the “Master of Le Dao Tang.”
The name “Le Dao Tang” originated from Emperor Daoguang, who personally inscribed the name when Prince Gong moved to the Old Summer Palace before his marriage. To honor his father, Prince Gong named his residence, former home in Haidian, the main hall of his mansion, and his tomb’s main hall “Le Dao Tang.” The original plaque inscribed by Emperor Daoguang hangs in the tomb, while replicas adorn the other locations.
Buildings in the Garden
Western-Style Gate
Located at the southern end of the garden’s central route, the Western-Style Gate was constructed by Prince Gong himself. This gate is a masterpiece of Han white marble craftsmanship, designed in the Western arch style resembling the Dafahai Gate in the Old Summer Palace. Inscribed with the phrase “静含太古” (Quiet Contemplation of Ancient Times) on the exterior and “秀挹恒春” (Elegant Containment of Eternal Spring) on the interior, the Western Gate is the mansion’s only Western-style structure. It symbolizes Prince Gong’s aspiration to embrace Western culture and technology to rejuvenate Qing Dynasty governance. The Western Gate is one of the “Three Wonders” of Prince Gong’s Mansion, alongside the Grand Theatre and the Rear Screen Building.
Fu Chi (Bat Pond)
Named for its resemblance to a bat, symbolizing good fortune, the Bat Pond holds auspicious meaning. Surrounding the pond are elm trees, which shed elm seeds resembling coins into the pond at the end of each spring, symbolizing prosperity and wealth. In Qing Dynasty Beijing, incorporating running water into private residences required imperial approval, highlighting Prince Gong’s mansion as one of the few granted this distinction. The pond was originally named “Fu He” (Bat River) and later known as “Fu Chi” (Bat Pond) or “Yuan Bao Chi” (Yuan Bao Pond) due to its shape resembling ancient Chinese ingots.
Dicuiyan (Dripping Green Rock)
Located north of the Anshantang Hall, Dicuiyan is a picturesque artificial rock formation made from Taihu stones, unique to the garden of Prince Gong’s Mansion. At its summit is the “Green Heaven Retreat,” a pavilion offering panoramic views, with a platform in front known as the “Inviting Moon Terrace,” perfect for moon-viewing evenings. Dicuiyan is renowned for its lush green moss that drips from the stone walls, creating a serene and verdant atmosphere. The paths leading to the summit from the east and west are adorned with water basins topped with perforated lids, where water is collected to nurture the moss during hot and humid summers and autumns, giving the rocks their distinctive green hue.
Fuzi Stele (Blessing Stele)
Located within the secret Yun Dong cave in Dicuiyan, the Fuzi Stele is an impressive stone monument inscribed by Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty himself. Spanning 7.9 meters and intricately carved, this stele holds profound historical and cultural significance. Emperor Kangxi’s calligraphy is rarely seen, making the “福” character on this stele exceptionally rare and esteemed. The stele is set before a meticulously arranged Chinese chessboard made of crushed stones, symbolizing the emperor’s strategic and profound blessings for longevity and prosperity.
Fu Ting (Bat Hall)
Located at the northernmost end of the garden, Fu Ting is an exquisite example of traditional Qing Dynasty architecture. The hall features a main hall with five bays, three protruding wings at the front and back, and side rooms extending like bat wings, symbolizing good fortune and longevity.
The building’s intricate decorations are noteworthy, with bamboo patterns meticulously painted by artisans, a rare example of such craftsmanship in ancient architecture. Sheltered by the surrounding hills and the mansion’s walls, Fu Ting offers a serene and elegant environment. Historically, this hall was where Prince Gong Yixin held meetings with his officials to discuss state affairs and is also a cool retreat during the summer months.
Yao Yue Tai (Inviting Moon Terrace)
The Inviting Moon Terrace is the highest point in the garden, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The path leading up to the terrace features two steps at the base, symbolizing the challenges one must overcome to achieve success. On the terrace, there is a small building called “Green Heaven Retreat” (绿天小隐), now known as the “God of Fortune Temple” (福神庙). During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the terrace serves as a gathering place for the Prince’s family and friends to celebrate the full moon with mooncakes and fruits.
Da Xi Lou (Grand Theater)
Constructed during the Tongzhi era (1862-1874), the Grand Theater is a unique and historic venue for dramatic performances. It stands as the only fully enclosed theater from the Qing Dynasty still in existence. The theater’s design features a three-bay, interlocking wooden structure without the use of iron nails, reflecting traditional architectural techniques.
Covering an area of 685 square meters, the theater’s innovative acoustics are a highlight. The design includes several large jars hidden beneath the stage to enhance resonance and ensure that the performers’ voices are clear and immersive for all audience members. This meticulous construction allows visitors to experience performances in a setting that echoes the grandeur of Qing Dynasty theatrical arts.
Map and Recommended Route
Main Gate – Silver Peace Hall – Jiale Hall – Baoguang Room –
Xijin Studio – Hou Zhao Lou – Arrow Alley – Western-Style Gate (西洋门) – Dule Peak – Fuzi Stele / Miyun Cave – Moon Inviting Terrace – Listening to Rain Pavilion – Grand Theatre – Bamboo Court – Le Dao Hall – Duofu Pavilion – Exit
Additional Information:
If you have ample time, you can explore the following four exhibition rooms in detail:
- Silver Peace Hall (银安殿): Introduces Qing dynasty noble titles and mansion regulations.
- Jiale Hall (嘉乐堂): Features the “Bricks of Linqing, Walls of Beijing” exhibition.
- Baoguang Room (葆光室): Displays the lives of Heshen and Prince Gong Yixin, including a plaque inscribed by Emperor Xianfeng.
- Le Dao Hall (乐道堂): A gallery for traditional Chinese paintings and calligraphy.
Vlog about Prince Gong’s Mansion
Popular Restaurants near Prince Gong’s Mansion
Huguosi Snacks (护国寺小吃): Beijing’s time-honored local snack spot.
Xingyuan Restaurant (杏园餐厅): Local cuisine restaurant.
Qingfeng Baozi (庆丰包子): Famous for its small bucket of pear soup, which is quite delicious.
Nanmen Shuanrou (南门涮肉): Popular for hot pot.
Ya’er Li Ji (鸦儿李记): Known for hot pot and BBQ.
Kaorou Ji (烤肉季): A well-known halal restaurant with many awards.
Sanyuan Mei Yuan (三元梅园): Specializes in cheese dishes, double-skin milk, and cheese red bean rolls.
Fuhua Zhai (富华斋饽饽): Imperial pastry shop with a famous “Sun Ni’e Fen Bai Cake (孙尼额芬白糕)” loved by Empress Cixi.
Fangzhuanchang No. 69 Zajian Noodles (方砖厂69号杂酱面): Known for its zha jiang noodles and spicy beef tripe. Might involve a wait.
Chatang Li (茶汤李): Offers unique snacks and a special tea soup made from finely ground flour.
Sijiminfu (四季民福): Recommended for Peking Duck, though you might have to wait a long time.
Photography Spots and Tips
Silver Peace Hall
- After entering the main gate, photographing the green glazed tiles of the Silver Peace Hall can be quite challenging. However, you can easily capture the hall’s exterior and take stunning portrait shots in the corridor or in front of the hall.
- Tip: For best results, visit during the quieter hours to avoid crowds.
West Area of the Mansion
- To the right of the entrance, the West Area of the Mansion features a light and shadow exhibition that is perfect for photography. Most visitors head straight into the main building, so you can take advantage of the off-peak times to have the space almost to yourself.
- Tip: Visit during early hours or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Back Corridor and Zhou Ruchang Calligraphy Exhibition
- The corridor behind the main building and the Zhou Ruchang Calligraphy Exhibition offer great opportunities for capturing empty, serene spaces.
- Tip: Early mornings are ideal for fewer visitors and better photo opportunities.
Red Archway by the Lotus Pond
- The red archway opposite the lotus pond is a beautiful spot for photographs. The contrast between the vibrant red arch and the tranquil lotus pond creates a stunning visual effect.
- Tip: Visit in the morning to catch the best light for the lotus flowers and the archway.
Slanted Corridor at the Inviting Moon Terrace
- The slanted corridor next to the Inviting Moon Terrace makes for a fantastic downward shot. After taking your photo, remember to walk up the corridor as it symbolizes “ascending to success” in traditional Chinese culture.
- Tip: Shoot from the top of the corridor to capture the downward perspective.
Bat Hall Corridor
- The unique yellow color scheme of the Bat Hall Corridor is exceptionally beautiful.
- Tip: Try shooting from different angles to capture the rich details of the yellow hues.
Corridor to the Right of the Western Gate
- This corridor leads up to the rooftops of the mansion’s buildings and offers a great view of the architecture.
- Tip: Climb the corridor to get a unique perspective of the mansion’s rooftops.
History of Prince Gong’s Mansion
The Era of Princess He and He Shen (1780-1799)
Founding of the Mansion
The story of Prince Gong’s Mansion begins in the mid-18th century during the Qing Dynasty. On May 20, 1780, the Qianlong Emperor arranged for the marriage of Heshen’s son, Fengshen Yinde, to Princess He (the Tenth Princess). This marriage marked the beginning of the construction of what would become the Prince Gong’s Mansion.
The Qianlong Emperor issued a decree on June 21, 1780, to allocate a residence for Heshen’s use as a wedding gift. The construction of the mansion took place over four years, from 1780 to 1784. Heshen, a high-ranking official under the Qianlong Emperor, was a powerful figure whose fortunes were symbolized by the grand scale of this residence.
Princess He’s Residence
In November 1790, Princess He moved into the mansion with her husband, Fengshen Yinde. This period was characterized by the lavish lifestyle of the Qing aristocracy, with the mansion serving as a center for social gatherings and state affairs. However, this prosperity was short-lived.
Fall of Heshen
In January 1799, Heshen was accused of corruption and treason. He was executed, and his property, including the mansion, was confiscated. The mansion was then granted to Prince Qing Yonglin, marking the end of the initial era of the mansion’s history.
The Era of Prince Qing (1799-1850)
Transition to Prince Qing’s Mansion
In March 1799, the mansion was officially renamed “Prince Qing’s Mansion” after Yonglin, who was granted the estate as part of his new title. During Yonglin’s time, the mansion continued to serve as a royal residence and a center of Qing Dynasty culture and governance.
Succession of Titles
Following Yonglin’s death in March 1820, his son, Mianmin, succeeded him as Prince Qing. The estate remained under Mianmin’s control until his death in 1836. His successor was Yicai, the grandson of the late Yiqing, marking the third generation of the Qing family to manage the mansion.
Decline and Reorganization
In 1842, Yicai faced scandal and was demoted, and the mansion’s status was downgraded as part of the broader political upheavals of the time. By 1849, after Yicai’s death, the mansion was managed by Yikuang, the fifth owner, who was soon transferred to a different residence, leading to a gradual decline in the mansion’s prominence.
The Era of Prince Gong (1852-1898)
Prince Gong’s Move
In April 1852, the mansion was officially named “Prince Gong’s Mansion” when Prince Gong Yixin moved in. Yixin was a prominent figure, known for his role in the Qing court and his efforts to reform the dynasty. Under his stewardship, the mansion saw significant renovations and expansions.
Renovations and Enhancements
After moving in, Prince Gong undertook extensive renovations of the mansion’s gardens and buildings. In October 1852, Emperor Xianfeng, along with Prince Gong’s mother, visited the mansion and inscribed plaques with inscriptions like “Duo Fu Xuan” (Hall of Abundant Blessings) and “Bao Guang Shi” (Hall of Preserved Light). These inscriptions reflect the grandeur of the mansion during Prince Gong’s era.
Cultural and Political Significance
Prince Gong used the mansion for both personal and political purposes. The estate was a venue for meetings and state affairs, and it also served as a place for relaxation and cultural activities. The gardens were expanded and re-designed, including the creation of the “Langrun Garden” for leisure and enjoyment.
End of an Era
Prince Gong passed away on April 10, 1898. After his death, his grandson, Pu Wei, inherited the title of Prince Gong and the mansion. However, the significance of the mansion began to wane as political dynamics shifted.
The Republican Era and Modern History (1912-Present)
Transition to Private Ownership
In January 1912, Pu Wei fled the mansion amidst the fall of the Qing Dynasty. In February of that year, the last Qing Emperor abdicated, and the mansion became private property for the first time in its history.
New Uses and Ownership Changes
In 1924, Pu Ru and his family returned to the mansion’s garden, but the mansion’s fate changed again in 1937 when the Peiping District Court auctioned it off. The mansion was acquired by Fu Jen Catholic University in 1938.
Educational and Cultural Preservation
In September 1939, Fu Jen University began admitting female students, and the mansion was renamed “Fu Jen Women’s College” (辅仁女院), managed by the Holy Ghost Sisters.
Restoration and Protection
After the founding of New China in 1949, the importance of preserving historical sites like Prince Gong’s Mansion became apparent. In 1952, Fu Jen University merged with Beijing Normal University, and the mansion became part of the university’s campus.
In 1962, Premier Zhou Enlai issued a directive for the restoration of the mansion, and in the following years, significant funds were allocated for its preservation. During this restoration, the missing “Fu Character Stele” was rediscovered in the garden.
Opening to the Public
In 1975, during Premier Zhou Enlai’s illness, he entrusted Vice Premier Gu Mu with three key tasks, one of which was to fully open Prince Gong’s Mansion to the public. This move was crucial in making the mansion a cultural and historical site accessible to everyone.
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Notice the Details: Keep an eye out for intricate details like the 9999 bat motifs in the Prince Gong’s Mansion, symbolizing good fortune. Take your time to observe the surroundings as you explore.
Avoid Weekends: Prince Gong’s Mansion can get extremely crowded on weekends. If possible, plan your visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds. If you must go on a weekend, aim to arrive before 9:00 AM when the area is less crowded.
Explore Gong Wang Fu: One highlight of Prince Gong’s Mansion is the Xijin Room, made of precious Nanmu wood. Each Nanmu wood beam costs around 2.7 billion yuan, emitting a refreshing fragrance. Take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship and history of this valuable structure.
Utilize Audio Guides: Consider renting an audio guide for your visit. These guides are quite useful, providing automatic explanations as you reach each point of interest. However, be prepared for occasional technical issues or bugs. If the audio guide doesn’t work initially, try walking around the area to trigger it.
