Fragrant Hills, Nature reserve and imperial garden in Xiangshan Subdistrict, China
Fragrant Hills is a mountain park with forested slopes, winding paths, and a mix of traditional and contemporary buildings scattered across the grounds. The terrain rises gradually, offering vantage points where visitors can see toward the city in the distance.
The site originated in 1186 as an imperial retreat during the Jin Dynasty. Major reconstruction in the 1400s reshaped it, creating the landscape and structures that visitors explore today.
The park contains numerous temples and pavilions that showcase how Chinese architectural traditions developed over time. Visitors can observe these structures as places where people sought peace and connection with nature, reflecting values central to Chinese garden design.
The park is open daily and is less crowded during weekday mornings, making for a more peaceful visit. Autumn is the most popular season when maple leaves change color, so expect larger crowds at that time.
The park is home to more than 600 plant species that grow throughout its wooded terrain. A glazed pagoda stands among the trees and serves as a vantage point where visitors can see across the entire city.
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