Jingshan Park, Elevated imperial garden in Xicheng District, China.
Jingshan Park is a former imperial garden in Xicheng District, covering 23 hectares directly north of the Forbidden City. Five artificial hills rise across the grounds, each topped with a pavilion that shows curved roofs and painted timber beams.
The hills were shaped during the Yongle era of the Ming dynasty using earth dug out when workers deepened the moats around the Imperial Palace. Later, the garden became the site where the last Ming emperor ended his life as rebel forces entered the capital.
The park serves as a gathering space where residents practice traditional activities like opera singing and exercise during morning and evening hours.
The entrance sits on the north side of the Forbidden City and the climb to the highest pavilion takes roughly ten minutes. Early morning hours offer quieter conditions and clearer views over the surrounding rooftops.
The central pavilion stands on the highest point of Beijing's central axis and allows a view of the entire northern front of the Imperial Palace. On clear days, the sight extends to the western hills at the edge of the city.
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