[2025 Beijing Attraction] Travel Guide for Imperial Garden (Updated May)

I visited the heart of Beijing — Tiananmen Square and the legendary Forbidden City. Tiananmen Square is truly impressive with its enormous open space, surrounded by some of the most important monuments of Chinese history and culture. The atmosphere feels incredibly grand and symbolic — you can really sense the weight of history here. The Forbidden City is a whole different experience. Walking through its ancient palaces and gardens, you can almost imagine the lives of emperors and their courts. The scale, the attention to detail, the golden rooftops and red walls — everything leaves a deep impression. If you want to explore the main halls properly, you’ll need at least 3–4 hours, but if you want to take your time and really dive into the history, plan for a full day. I highly recommend getting an audio guide or joining a tour — it makes the visit much more meaningful.

🍎Jingren Palace: Long-haired cats represented by "Aobai" often appear here. They are docile and suitable for close observation. 🍑Imperial Garden: The vegetation is dense, and cats like to bask in the sun or hide here, especially near the rockery and corridor. 😺Jianting Square: There are fewer people, and cats are often seen here before closing in the evening. Viewing time 😸There are fewer visitors in the early morning when the museum opens or in the evening before closing, so cats are more likely to show up to look for food or take a walk. 😻Most of the cats in the Forbidden City are free-range, and some of them have aloof personalities. Do not forcefully pet or chase them. 😺Feeding is prohibited: cat food is managed by staff, and bringing your own food may affect your health. -😺Historical origin: Most of the cats in the Forbidden City are descendants of the imperial cats of the Ming and Qing dynasties. In the Ming Dynasty, a "cat room" was set up for management. Emperors of the Qing Dynasty, such as Qianlong and Cixi, were cat lovers. Their duties are symbolized by being called cat security guards. They patrol at night to prevent rats and guard wooden buildings and cultural relics. Dean Shan Jixiang praised them as "living cultural relics." 😺Cultural and creative peripherals: The Palace Museum Taobao store launches Royal Cat themed dolls. You can take the "Royal Cat" home.

#discoverchina Nestled at the northern end of the Forbidden City, the Imperial Garden is a serene contrast to the grandeur of the palace halls. Designed for royal leisure, this classical Chinese garden features ancient cypress trees, intricate pavilions, and symbolic rock formations. The harmonious layout blends nature and architecture, offering a glimpse into the tranquil moments of the emperors’ lives. It’s the perfect finale to a Palace Museum visit—peaceful, elegant, and deeply rooted in tradition. #thingstodo #citydaytours #familytravel #myitinerary

#discoverchina The Imperial Gardens of China are among the most magnificent expressions of traditional Chinese horticulture and landscape design. These gardens, primarily constructed for the enjoyment of emperors and the imperial family, reflect the profound philosophical and aesthetic principles of Chinese culture, integrating nature, architecture, and symbolism into harmonious compositions. Imperial gardens date back to ancient dynasties, with their earliest forms appearing as royal hunting parks during the Zhou Dynasty (11th century BC). By the Qin and Han dynasties, these spaces evolved into refined retreats for imperial leisure. However, their golden age arrived during the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties, when emperors expanded and embellished gardens to symbolize their divine authority. One of the most famous examples is the Imperial Garden (御花园) within the Forbidden City, designed for the emperor's personal relaxation. Meanwhile, the Summer Palace and the Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) represented grander imperial estates, blending natural scenery with poetic architecture. Key Features of Imperial Gardens (A) Harmonious Layout Unlike Western geometric gardens, Chinese imperial gardens follow asymmetrical, naturalistic designs, mimicking the beauty of untouched landscapes. Key characteristics include: Artificial hills and ponds – Symbolize mythical mountains and rivers. Winding pathways – Encourage contemplative walks. Strategic vistas – Frame picturesque views, often incorporating distant natural scenery. (B) Architectural Elements Imperial gardens feature pavilions, bridges, and corridors, designed with intricate wooden structures and decorated with symbolic motifs such as dragons and phoenixes. Key structures include: Halls for meditation and leisure (e.g., the Hall of Imperial Peace in the Forbidden City’s garden). Moon gates and zigzag bridges to slow movement and enhance contemplation. (C) Symbolic Plants and Colors Pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms represent resilience and nobility. Lotus ponds symbolize purity and enlightenment. Dominant colors: Red (happiness, prosperity) and yellow (imperial authority). Chinese imperial gardens embody Daoist and Confucian ideals—balancing human intervention with nature's spontaneity. They serve as: -A microcosm of the universe, reflecting the emperor’s role as the mediator between heaven and earth. -Spiritual retreats, offering solitude and philosophical reflection. -Political statements, showcasing imperial power through their scale and sophistication. Notable Imperial Gardens Among the finest examples are: The Forbidden City’s Imperial Garden (御花园) – A serene, compact garden with ancient cypress trees and ornate pavilions. Summer Palace (颐和园) – A vast UNESCO-listed garden incorporating Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, famed for its Marble Boat and Long Corridor. Chengde Mountain Resort (避暑山庄) – A Qing Dynasty retreat blending Han, Tibetan, and Mongolian architectural styles. Today, these gardens are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attracting millions of visitors yearly. They remain treasured not just for their beauty but for their enduring cultural legacy—teaching the world about balance, artistry, and imperial grandeur. The Imperial Gardens of China are living museums, where every rock, pond, and tree tells a story of imperial luxury, philosophical depth, and artistic mastery. They stand as timeless reminders of China’s majestic past and its profound connection to nature.

#discoverchina Tucked behind the Forbidden City’s stern halls, this walled Eden breathes with quiet majesty. I lingered beneath 400-year-old scholar pines, their gnarled branches pruned to frame the sky like living ink paintings. Delicate pebble mosaics crunched underfoot—hidden bats and flowers woven into the paths by long-gone artisans. Near the Pavilion of Floating Jade. I caught the scent of ancient cypress mixing with blooming tree peonies, just as it might have for Emperor Yongle. The garden’s genius lies in its controlled wildness—every rock from Lake Tai, every twisted juniper placed to compose perfect harmony. When afternoon light filtered through the Qingyun Pavilion’s lattice, casting dragon-shaped shadows on weathered bricks, time seemed to pause. This isn’t just a garden—it’s a philosopher’s retreat, where stone, water and wood whisper secrets of balance.

#travelinginchina **Things to Do:** Explore the serene Imperial Garden, a beautiful oasis within the larger Forbidden City complex. Wander through meticulously landscaped pathways, admire the intricate pavilions, and enjoy the serene ponds and ancient trees that provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city. **Tips:** Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and softer lighting for photography. Take your time to appreciate the artistic details of the architecture and the natural beauty of the garden. **Directions:** The Imperial Garden is easily accessible from the Forbidden City entrance. Simply follow the signs once you enter the complex. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Beijing’s historical treasures! #travelinginchina #couplestrip #myitinerary

🗺️Destination Overview 👉Day 1: From Daxing airport to hotel at Qianman street, check-in and left for Summer Palace. ✈️Transportation: Took Metro according to Amap guide. 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions: Qianman food street and Qianman. Summer Palace is breath takingly beautiful. The only regret is there is the willow trees only have skeleon during my visit, I wish I could come in May or June. 🥘Food: Qianman street has several Micheline restaurants. 🏠Accommodation 1.Yiting Zhenshe Hotel (Beijing Qianmen Pedestrian Street) 👉Day 2: 🧭Route Tianman Square ➡️ Palace Museum ( Forbidden city) ➡️ Temple of Heaven ✈️Transportation: Metro according to Amap 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions: Tianman square and the obelisks, Mao's Mausoleum , National Museum of China, Monument to the People's Heroes, the great hall of people. Palace museum, so many Pavilions and there are Museum of time pieces and Treasure Hall,as well as Imperial Garden. Temple of heaven park, Temple of heaven, Mound Alter, Fasting palace. 🥘Food: The best roasted duck in town Hongyunlou Roast Duck Restaurant (Nanwei Road) 🏠Accommodation 1.Yiting Zhenshe Hotel (Beijing Qianmen Pedestrian Street) 👉Day 3: The Great Wall (Badaling) and Olympic park (Bird's nest and Ice Cube) ✈️Transportation We booked Busda tour from Trip.com and it was very smooth. 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions: The Great Wall and we took cable car to The Seventh gate and climp up to eight gate and then to nineth nd tenth and back to eight to ride back cable car to the bus stop. On our way back we took off at the Olympic park. I was worth to stroll around for awhile till they lit the lights up, it is so beautiful. Then we took metro to famous Wanfujing street. 🥘Food: there are a lot of nice restaurants around Wanfujing street. 🏠Accommodation 1.Yiting Zhenshe Hotel (Beijing Qianmen Pedestrian Street) There are still many interesting places I would like to go and see but as I have only got limited holidays I can only spend 4 days and 3 nights at Beijing.

#travelinginchina 1 Day in Beijing itinerary for those who are limited in time and have already been to Beijing and seen the main attractions: [Must-Visit Attractions] 1. Beijing Zhongshan Park Thousand of beautiful flowers depending on the season. Spring is the best option. The park is so lolorful and peaceful. 2. Palace of Heavenly Purity The hall was the principal residency of the emperor, highly recommended for history lovers 3. Wangfujing street Enjoy Chinese street food and atmosphere [Must-Try Food] 1. Wangfujing street + Must-Try Dish: local bakery 2. Nancheng cafe + Must-Try Dish: Hot Pot [Accommodation ] Recommended Area for Accommodation if you are staying for more than 1 day is downtown or close to subway at least. As for us, the next day we had a next flight so we stayed at Beijing Daxing International airport Hotel Name: Aerotel Beijing Daxing Internatuonal

#February Good Places 2025 When you come to Beijing, in addition to tasting the authentic Beijing roast duck here, as a member of the Chinese nation, of course you should explore the magnificent and solemn historical buildings behind this ancient capital of many dynasties! Today we come to the Forbidden City and re-trace the footsteps of the emperors. At about 8am, I first took a taxi from the hotel to West Changan Avenue near Tiananmen Square. However, we who have never entered the palace do not know that to enter the palace and it is the main palace of Taihe Hall, it is not easy. From Tiananmen, you have to pass through the Duanmen, the Meridian Gate, and then cross the Inner Golden Water Bridge and the Taihe Gate to reach the Taihe Hall. Mothers and children should take care of themselves and take pictures while walking, as if they have become spoiled palace maids! Finally came to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, when I saw the plaque of "Upright and Bright", scenes of the court drama surfaced in front of me, I was imagining how the emperor sat on the dragon throne to review the memorial! In addition, we also visited the Qianqing Palace, Ci Palace and so on. Finally, we came to the emperor's imperial garden. I believe the emperors will leave a lot of footprints here too! Visit the bonsai rockery in the palace courtyard, and in the environment of birds singing and flowers fragrant, we step out of the Forbidden City to complete this historical journey. 🗓️Itinerary arrangement: half a day 💞Reason for recommendation: irreplaceable historical buildings, precious, grand! Tip🔔: Due to the large number of people visiting the Forbidden City every day, visiting the Forbidden City now needs to make an appointment on the official WeChat account. Friends who want to visit the Forbidden City remember to make an appointment in advance! #Historic Architecture #Forbidden City #Searching for the Emperor's Footprints

Of course you can't go to the Forbidden City when you come to Beijing City! #Forbidden City Museum You will really see the emperor when you go to the Forbidden City! Here’s some useful information when you’re planning your trip to the Palace Museum (Forbidden City) in Beijing: 🕰️Opening Hours: 1. **Online Booking**: Visit the official website of the Palace Museum or download the official app to make a reservation. Many visitors need to make reservations days or weeks in advance. 2. **Ticket Type**: You can choose ordinary tickets, student tickets, etc., according to your needs. 🏖️ Environment/Facilities: 1. **Metro**: You can take Beijing Metro Line 1, get off at Tiananmen East Station or Tiananmen West Station, and walk to the Forbidden City. 2. **Bus**: Several bus lines can reach the Forbidden City, including but not limited to 1, 2 and 82. 3. **Taxi**: Taking a taxi to the Forbidden City in the city is also a convenient option. 💰Average Consumption per Person: 1. **Ticket Price**: Typical adult tickets are about RMB 60, with ticket prices subject to increase during peak season (April 1 to October 31). 2. **Offers**: Discounts may be available for students, seniors and military personnel, etc. It is recommended to check the official website for specific discount policies. I hope you have a pleasant trip to the Forbidden City! Any other questions, feel free to ask me!

#chinatransit Landing at Beijing Daxing International Airport, I was immediately impressed by its futuristic design. Nicknamed the “Starfish”, the massive terminal made transit seamless, and within no time, I was on the Daxing Airport Express heading toward the city center. Arriving in the heart of Beijing, I made my way to the iconic Forbidden City. Stepping through the Meridian Gate, I was transported into China’s imperial past. The vast courtyards, golden rooftops, and intricate red walls reflected centuries of history. Climbing up Jingshan Park, I took in a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire palace complex, a sight that made the journey even more rewarding. From the world’s most advanced airport to China’s grandest imperial palace, this transit was more than just a layover—it was a seamless blend of modern efficiency and timeless history.

#chinaattractions A Walk Through Jingshan Park and a Glimpse of the Forbidden City Climbing to the top of Jingshan Park felt like stepping above time. The path wound gently upward, lined with ancient cypress trees that whispered stories of centuries past. Reaching the Wanchun Pavilion, I was greeted by a breathtaking view: the vast, golden rooftops of the Forbidden City stretching out beneath me. The symmetry and grandeur of the palace complex looked even more magnificent from this vantage point, especially as the afternoon sun bathed the glazed tiles in a warm, golden light. From the hilltop, I caught sight of a quiet corner of the Forbidden City—a serene courtyard framed by red walls and sloping roofs. The contrast of the vibrant red against the deep green trees was striking. Standing there, I imagined the countless stories hidden within those walls—of emperors, concubines, and officials who once walked the same grounds. Jingshan Park and the Forbidden City, with their timeless elegance, offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical splendor. In that peaceful moment, I felt connected to Beijing’s imperial past and the enduring charm of its cultural heritage.

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Beijing and its many temples

"The Imperial Garden" is located at the northern end of the Forbidden City in Beijing, near the Shenwu Gate. It was established in the 18th year of the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty (1420), originally called the Palace Rear Garden. During the Qing Dynasty, it was renamed "The Imperial Garden" and served as a place of entertainment and leisure for the emperors, empresses, and concubines of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Centered around the Qinan Hall, the garden's architecture is symmetrically flanked by nearly 20 different structures. There are more than 160 ancient trees still standing in the garden today. The paths within the garden are all paved with colorful stones, forming over 900 patterns. Various colored rocks and bonsai are placed throughout, with verdant pines, cypresses, and bamboos interspersed among the rocks, creating an evergreen garden landscape that endures through all seasons.

Chasing flowers in Beijing! You definitely can’t miss the Palace Museum, which has a very complete collection of flowers! And it's very beautiful. Each one is worth checking in, with detailed locations attached. 🔸 ✅Magnolia There are purple and white magnolias in the Forbidden City. The magnolias at Donghuamen are among the earliest to bloom in Beijing. In previous years, the flowers would bloom around March 12th. ⚠️Time: From early March to April 📍Location: Outside Donghuamen, Imperial Garden 🔸 ✅Apricot Blossoms The small apricot blossoms, paired with the tall red walls, are perfect for taking photos. The apricot blossoms in the Forbidden City are my obsession, because they are so hard to catch, the flowering period is not long, and if there is a strong wind, everything will be gone. The apricot blossoms in the Imperial Garden bloom earlier and for a shorter period of time. Photographed on March 28th. ⚠️Time: Recommended end of March 📍Location: Begonia forest at the entrance of Cultural Hall, west side of Kunning Palace, in front of Shoukang Palace, northwest corner of Imperial Garden 🔸 ✅Begonia flowers Begonia flowers rain, so beautiful. The crabapples in the Forbidden City are mainly crabapples of the Western Cape, with red buds that look even cuter when paired with green leaves. ⚠️Time: mid-April (I took the photo on April 14) 📍Location: Xiehe Gate, Wenhua Hall, Cining Palace Garden, Shoukang Palace 🔸 ✅Lilac Purple lilac, white lilac, the lilac in the Forbidden City matches the ancient buildings, making it particularly photogenic, with white jade railings, red walls and orange tiles. ⚠️Time: mid-April, I took the photo on April 14th 📍Location: west of Xihe Gate, next to Wuying Hall, back garden of Cining Palace 🔸 ✅Prunus mume Pink prune is also very pretty. There are parks of all sizes in Beijing, and the Forbidden City is no exception. ⚠️Time: mid-April (April 14) 📍Location: Imperial Garden, next to Wuying Hall 🔸 ✅Peony Flowers are blooming in the Forbidden City. The peonies in the Forbidden City are very, very beautiful. You must go! ⚠️Time: late April to early May 📍Location: Imperial Garden, Cining Palace Back Garden 🔸 ✅Wisteria There are not many wisterias, but they are also very beautiful. Time: Late April to early May Location: Imperial Garden 🔸 👇Other tips 📍Address: Palace Museum . 🚃Travel: Public transportation is recommended, self-driving is not recommended, it is inconvenient. When taking a taxi, please locate Dongxihuamen. . ⏰Recommended playing time: one day. 🔥Please note that the Forbidden City is now divided into afternoon and afternoon sessions. You must enter the museum according to the reservation time. It is recommended to make a reservation for the afternoon session, and you can enter the museum at 11:30. If it is the morning session, you will not be allowed to enter after 12:00. . 🔜Recommendations for visiting the Forbidden City: stamping (I haven’t tried it, but I want to), eating popsicles (the cultural and creative popsicles are ok at 10 yuan each), and visiting exhibitions (there are free exhibitions, remember to make reservations in advance) . ❌Notes for visiting: bring your own dry food, the prices in the Forbidden City are a bit expensive. Although there are not many choices, self-heating rice is a good choice. . 💰Tickets: 40 yuan in off-season, 60 yuan in peak season, free annual pass, reservations are also required.