Beihai Park Beijing
A sprawling imperial garden with a vast lake, historic pavilions, and the iconic White Dagoba, offering a serene escape in Beijing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Beihai Park Beijing
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling imperial garden with a vast lake, historic pavilions, and the iconic White Dagoba, offering a serene escape in Beijing.
"A tranquil oasis with stunning imperial architecture and breathtaking lake views."
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
No need to book online! Most visitors can purchase tickets directly at the entrance.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Lake
Rent a boat or walk along the scenic lake for beautiful views and photo ops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Dagoba
Qionghua Island
Iconic Tibetan-style stupa offering panoramic views of the park and city skyline.
Jade Belt Bridge
Eastern shore of the lake
An elegant, arched stone bridge perfect for picturesque strolls and stunning reflections.
Five-Dragon Pavilion
Northwestern shore of the lake
A series of interconnected pavilions with intricate dragon carvings, showcasing traditional imperial architecture.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets & Entry: On-Site Purchase Possible
Best Time to Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
No need to book online! Most visitors can purchase tickets directly at the entrance. +2
🚶♀️ Stroll the Lake
Rent a boat or walk along the scenic lake for beautiful views and photo ops.
📸 Capture the White Dagoba
The White Dagoba is a must-see; get shots from different angles around the lake.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the expansive park grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets On-Site
No need to book online! Most visitors can purchase tickets directly at the entrance. +2
🚶♀️ Stroll the Lake
Rent a boat or walk along the scenic lake for beautiful views and photo ops.
📸 Capture the White Dagoba
The White Dagoba is a must-see; get shots from different angles around the lake.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the expansive park grounds. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use Navigation Apps
Beijing's subway is efficient; use apps like Baidu Maps or Amap for directions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Beihai Park for its serene beauty, historical significance, and affordability. The iconic White Dagoba and picturesque lake views are major highlights. Some find the park can get crowded during peak times, and navigating ticketing can sometimes be confusing, though on-site purchases are generally possible.
"Beihai Park is one of the most iconic and historically rich parks in Beijing, offering a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and ancient architecture. Located just northwest of the Forbidden City, this massive imperial garden has been a peaceful retreat for centuries—originally built in the 11th century and continuously expanded by successive dynasties.
One of the highlights of the park is the White Dagoba (or White Pagoda), a Tibetan-style stupa standing atop Jade Flower Island in the middle of Beihai Lake. The pagoda itself is striking in contrast to the lush greenery and blue waters that surround it. It has endured several earthquakes throughout history and was restored three times to preserve its structure and spiritual significance.
The park is incredibly vast, featuring classical Chinese landscaping, winding stone pathways, quiet pavilions, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can stroll along the lake, rent pedal boats or rowboats, and admire the serenity amidst the buzzing city life. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunset when the park glows in warm tones.
However, it’s worth noting that Beihai Park can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, with both tourists and locals flocking to enjoy its beauty. Despite the crowds, the atmosphere remains relaxing, and there are still plenty of corners where you can find peace.
Entry costs are very reasonable: around 2 euros per person for the park entrance and an additional 2 euros if you’d like to enter the White Pagoda area. Tickets are sold separately, so be prepared to pay both fees if you want the full experience.
Overall, Beihai Park is a must-visit if you’re in Beijing. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a place to unwind, this park offers something for everyone."
Yasmin Grassinger
"Good Park,
Very cool in the summer and autumn, many Tibet Buddhist statues and very nice view when you are on a boat. I recommend that you ride the boats. It is a really beautiful view even though it is expensive. If you want to enter the park, it’s about ¥20 or $3 dollars. It is tricky to navigate without a map and there aren’t any so I recommend that you ask directions to staff. The park is good if you want to go for a little jog or if you want to just look at the statues and learn history."
Rei
"Pretty park in the middle of Beijing with a big lake. Entry fee is very cheap and can be paid directly at one of the cashiers. Highlight is the white pagoda and the large areas with lotus. Worth a visit to escape the tourist masses around the forbidden city and to enjoy a bit off calm in the middle of the city centre."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beihai Park is easily accessible by Beijing's subway system. Take Line 6 to Beihai North Station or Line 8 to Shichahai Station. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrances. Many visitors find the subway to be the most efficient way to travel around Beijing.
Yes, Beihai Park has multiple entrances. The South Gate is a popular entry point, offering convenient access to the lake and the White Dagoba. Other entrances are located on the east and north sides of the park.
Taxis are generally available in Beijing, but during peak hours or holidays, they can be difficult to find. Using ride-hailing apps like Didi is often more reliable.
Yes, foreign passports are accepted for entry into Beihai Park. You should be able to purchase tickets on-site with your passport.
For navigating Beijing's subway and bus system like a local, consider using apps like Baidu Maps or Amap, which provide real-time transit information and route planning. You can buy paper tickets or use QR codes for payment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Contrary to some official websites, many travelers report that you can buy tickets on-site at Beihai Park without prior reservation. This seems to have unofficially loosened up for tourists. +2
Ticket prices for Beihai Park are generally very affordable. While specific prices can vary, it's considered a budget-friendly attraction. Travelers have reported purchasing tickets at the entrance for a small fee.
Beihai Park typically opens early in the morning and closes in the evening. The exact hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check closer to your visit date, but generally, it's open from around 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
While the main park entry is usually a single ticket, there might be separate fees for specific attractions within the park, such as boat rentals or access to certain pavilions. It's best to inquire at the ticket office if you have specific interests.
While some official ticketing for Beijing attractions is moving towards WeChat mini-programs, many travelers have found that on-site purchases are still readily available for Beihai Park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The iconic White Dagoba on Qionghua Island is a highlight, offering stunning views. Don't miss the Jade Belt Bridge, the Five-Dragon Pavilion, and the tranquil gardens. Renting a boat on the lake is also a popular activity. 
Absolutely! Beihai Park is a sprawling imperial garden perfect for leisurely walks and photography. The lake, bridges, pavilions, and the White Dagoba provide numerous picturesque spots.
Yes, boat rentals are a popular activity in Beihai Park, especially during warmer months. You can rent various types of boats, including paddle boats and electric boats, to explore the lake.
There are usually restaurants and tea houses within Beihai Park where you can enjoy traditional Chinese snacks and meals. These offer a nice break during your exploration.
To fully enjoy Beihai Park, it's recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to rent a boat or explore more leisurely, you could easily spend half a day here.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The White Dagoba, especially when reflected in the lake, is a prime photo spot. The Jade Belt Bridge offers beautiful architectural shots, and the Five-Dragon Pavilion provides intricate details. Explore the various garden paths for unique perspectives.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers soft, warm light that enhances the beauty of the park and its structures. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and a peaceful ambiance.
Generally, drone usage is restricted in most public parks and historical sites in Beijing, including Beihai Park, to preserve the environment and visitor experience. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, is great for capturing both wide landscapes and detailed shots of the pavilions and architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive lake views.
Capture the White Dagoba from across the lake, the reflections on the water, and the intricate details of the imperial architecture. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the largest crowds. The park's natural beauty and the chance to see traditional Chinese architecture can be educational and engaging for children. It's a great place for a relaxed family outing away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
💰 Budget Travelers
Once inside, you can enjoy the park's beauty by walking or renting a boat (which is also reasonably priced). Bringing your own water and snacks can further reduce costs. It's a fantastic way to experience a significant piece of Beijing's imperial history and natural scenery without breaking the bank.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the essence of this imperial garden. Early mornings provide a serene atmosphere with fewer people, while late afternoons offer beautiful, soft light. Don't forget to explore the smaller paths and hidden corners for unique perspectives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Beihai Park's History
+1The park's design is a masterful example of traditional Chinese landscape gardening, featuring a large central lake, man-made islands, and meticulously arranged pavilions, temples, and corridors. The layout emphasizes harmony with nature, creating a serene and picturesque environment. The most prominent landmark, the White Dagoba, was added in the 17th century and has since become a symbol of the park.
Exploring Beihai Park offers a journey through centuries of Chinese imperial history and landscape artistry. The blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor makes it a captivating destination for understanding China's rich cultural heritage.
+1Navigating Beijing's Public Transport Like a Pro
For those less familiar, it's helpful to know that stations are clearly marked in Chinese and English, and announcements are often made in both languages. Apps like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps) are invaluable for real-time navigation, helping you find the quickest routes and station exits. These apps are essential for planning your journey to Beihai Park and other sights.
While taxis are available, ride-hailing apps such as Didi are often more convenient and transparent with pricing. Be aware that during peak hours, traffic can be heavy, making the subway a more predictable option for reaching your destination on time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit