Beihai Park is a famous imperial garden located in the heart of Beijing, China. Its history dates back over a millennium and is a testament to China’s rich cultural heritage. The park covers an area of approximately 69 hectares and includes a large lake, beautiful gardens, and a number of historical structures.
The history of Beihai Park begins in the Liao Dynasty (907-1125), when a temple was built on the site. The park was expanded and rebuilt several times during the following dynasties, including the Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing. The most significant transformation occurred during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), when the Yongle Emperor (r. 1402-1424) ordered the creation of a vast garden complex on the site, which included the construction of the Beihai Lake.
During the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), Beihai Park became an imperial garden, and the emperors regularly visited the park to relax and entertain guests. In 1749, Emperor Qianlong ordered the renovation of the park, which included the construction of several important buildings, such as the Nine-Dragon Wall and the White Pagoda.
In the early 20th century, Beihai Park became a public park and underwent several renovations and restorations. However, during the Japanese occupation of Beijing in World War II, many of the park’s buildings were damaged or destroyed. After the war, the park was restored to its former glory, and several new attractions were added, including Circular City and Jade Island.
Today, Beihai Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Beijing, attracting millions of visitors each year. The park has been designated as a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit and is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.