A 4-kilometer CityWalk route around the Forbidden City that unlocks three of Beijing's most famous imperial parks. This route combines history, nature, and architecture in a single afternoon.
Route: Zhongshan Park, Beihai Park, Jingshan Park, ending at the Forbidden City corner towers. Total walking distance is about 4 kilometers, with 6-7 hours recommended for a leisurely pace.
Zhongshan Park (2 hours)
Enter through the south gate and exit through the west gate. The park was once part of the Forbidden City grounds and features the Shejitan (Altar of Earth and Grain), where emperors performed sacrificial rituals.
The highlight in autumn is the ginkgo avenue - a path lined with golden ginkgo trees against red palace walls. This is one of the most photographed scenes in Beijing. The water lily ponds are also beautiful, with blooms in late summer.
Beihai Park (2-2.5 hours)
Enter through the south gate. Beihai Park is China's oldest existing imperial garden, with over a thousand years of history. The park centers on Qionghua Island in Beihai Lake.
The Circular City, located at the park entrance, houses two treasures: the Jade Bowl, a massive jade bowl once used by Kublai Khan, and a white jade Buddha statue. Both are exquisite.
On Qionghua Island, the White Dagoba rises above the treeline - a Tibetan-style stupa built in 1651. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the lake and the Forbidden City. The island also features beautiful garden complexes with traditional pavilions and rockeries.
Jingshan Park (2 hours)
The final stop offers the best viewpoint in all of Beijing. Climb to Wanchun Pavilion at the top of Jingshan Hill for a breathtaking view of the Forbidden City laid out below, and the central axis of Beijing stretching north to the Drum and Bell Towers.
On a clear day, you can see the entire Forbidden City complex, the Great Hall of the People, and the modern skyline beyond. The sunset view from here is legendary - golden light bathes the yellow rooftops of the palace.
Shan You Li Cafe
After the parks, stop at Shan You Li, a charming cafe near the Forbidden City walls. A perfect place to rest your feet and reflect on the journey.
Forbidden City Corner Towers
End the walk at the corner towers of the Forbidden City. These elegant structures, reflected in the moat water, are especially beautiful at dusk. The northeast corner tower is the most photographed.
Travel Tips
Tickets: Zhongshan Park 2-5 yuan, Beihai Park 5-10 yuan, Jingshan Park 2 yuan. Purchase via the "Changyou Park" WeChat mini-program. Jingshan Park may require advance reservation during peak season.
Transportation: Take Metro Line 1 to Tian'anmen West station for Zhongshan Park. Note that Tian'anmen Square requires advance reservation through the WeChat mini-program.
Best Time: Spring for flowers, autumn for ginkgo and maples. Weekday mornings are less crowded.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera. The route is mostly flat but involves a lot of walking.
