Grand View Garden (Daguanyuan) Beijing
Step into the world of 'Dream of the Red Chamber' at this magnificent imperial garden, a cinematic masterpiece.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Grand View Garden (Daguanyuan) Beijing
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the world of 'Dream of the Red Chamber' at this magnificent imperial garden, a cinematic masterpiece.
"A breathtaking recreation of a literary dreamscape, perfect for history and beauty lovers."
🎯 Full Access Ticket? Think Twice
The full access ticket covers many areas, but it's huge! Many find it overwhelming. Focus on key spots to avoid exhaustion.
👟 Comfy Shoes are a Must!
You'll be doing a lot of walking across this vast imperial garden. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand View Pavilion
Central area
The heart of the garden, showcasing exquisite architecture and serene water features. A true imperial masterpiece.
Longevity Hill
Northwest section
Offers panoramic views of the garden and Kunming Lake. Climb for breathtaking vistas and iconic photo opportunities.
Kunming Lake
Southern section
A vast, picturesque lake dotted with islands and bridges. Enjoy a boat ride for a different perspective of the imperial retreat.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Navigating the Garden
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Full Access Ticket? Think Twice
The full access ticket covers many areas, but it's huge! Many find it overwhelming. Focus on key spots to avoid exhaustion.
👟 Comfy Shoes are a Must!
You'll be doing a lot of walking across this vast imperial garden. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, the sun can be intense. Carry plenty of water to stay refreshed while exploring.
📸 Capture the Views
From Longevity Hill to the lakeside, there are countless photo ops. Don't forget your camera or phone!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Full Access Ticket? Think Twice
The full access ticket covers many areas, but it's huge! Many find it overwhelming. Focus on key spots to avoid exhaustion.
👟 Comfy Shoes are a Must!
You'll be doing a lot of walking across this vast imperial garden. Prioritize comfort for a better experience.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, the sun can be intense. Carry plenty of water to stay refreshed while exploring.
📸 Capture the Views
From Longevity Hill to the lakeside, there are countless photo ops. Don't forget your camera or phone!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Grand View Garden's stunning beauty and its faithful recreation of the literary world from 'Dream of the Red Chamber.' The intricate architecture, serene landscapes, and historical significance are major draws. However, some find the garden overwhelmingly large, and navigating it can be tiring, especially during peak hours or hot weather.
"Very nice big garden. The entry ticket is 40 CNY. It’s very cold in winter but the view worth me walking in the freezing weather."
hehe
"The famous TV series Hongloumeng was shot here. Nice to visit here if you are the fun of the TV series or the original Novel."
K Joe
"For the price of ¥40, there isn't much to see. The place is badly maintained. Not much is being mentioned at all regarding the characters from the novel "Chamber Of the Red Mansion". So basically you are just strolling in another garden which you could actually do it for free. Most business in the premises were closed."
Yea Guo Ming
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Grand View Garden is by subway. Take Line 4 to Anheqiao North Station and then transfer to bus 346 or 390. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to the entrance.
Yes, Grand View Garden is well-connected by public transport. The subway and bus routes make it relatively easy to access from various parts of Beijing.
Line 4 to Anheqiao North Station is a good starting point, followed by a bus transfer. This is a popular route for many visitors.
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Beijing and can take you directly to Grand View Garden. It's a convenient option if you prefer door-to-door service.
Travel time can vary depending on traffic and your starting point, but typically expect 45-75 minutes by public transport from central Beijing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official website or reliable ticketing platforms for the most up-to-date pricing. There are often different ticket options, including a 'full access' ticket.
Many visitors find the full access ticket overwhelming due to the garden's immense size. Consider if you have enough time and energy to explore all the included areas.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons, to save time and potentially secure your entry.
Opening hours typically vary between summer and winter. It's best to confirm the current operating hours on the official website before your visit.
Buying tickets a few days in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, can help avoid last-minute rushes and ensure availability.
📸 📸 Photography
Longevity Hill offers panoramic views, while the Grand View Pavilion and the various bridges over Kunming Lake provide stunning architectural shots. The lakeside is also very picturesque.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene landscapes. Late afternoons provide a beautiful golden hour glow.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in most major tourist attractions in Beijing, including Grand View Garden, to ensure visitor safety and preserve the environment.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views, and a telephoto can isolate architectural elements.
Photography rules can vary for specific buildings. Look for signage indicating restrictions, especially in historical or sensitive areas.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
To truly appreciate the garden, allocate at least 3-4 hours. If you plan to see everything with the full access ticket, you might need a full day.
Yes, there are restaurants and snack stalls within the garden offering various Chinese cuisines. However, options can be limited and pricier than outside.
The garden is vast and involves a lot of walking, with some inclines. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging. Consider focusing on accessible areas or using a wheelchair if available.
Restrooms are available throughout the garden. There are also souvenir shops and places to rest.
Yes, boat rentals are available on Kunming Lake, offering a relaxing way to see the garden from the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the more visually engaging areas like the lake with its boats and the charming pavilions. Storytelling about the characters from 'Dream of the Red Chamber' can make the visit more interactive and educational for older children. Plan for a shorter, focused visit rather than trying to cover every inch, ensuring the experience remains enjoyable and not overwhelming for the little ones.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider purchasing the standard entrance ticket if you don't plan to explore every single building or exhibition. Focus your time on the main scenic areas, which are often included in the basic admission. This allows you to experience the garden's beauty without incurring extra costs for optional areas or activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Grand View Garden's History
Each pavilion, courtyard, and winding path within the garden is said to represent a specific location or mood from the novel, allowing visitors to walk through the world of Jia Baoyu and Lin Daiyu. This connection to one of China's most beloved literary works makes the garden a pilgrimage site for literature enthusiasts and a unique cultural experience for all visitors. The careful preservation of its historical and artistic integrity ensures that it remains a vibrant showcase of Chinese heritage.
Maximizing Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
For those interested in photography, the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) is often cited as the best time to capture the garden's beauty, offering softer light and fewer crowds. Consider bringing a versatile camera lens to capture both expansive landscapes and intricate architectural details. While the garden offers dining options, some travelers suggest that bringing your own snacks or planning a meal outside the garden might be more budget-friendly and offer more variety. Ultimately, the consensus is to approach Grand View Garden with a relaxed mindset, allowing yourself to wander and soak in the atmosphere rather than rushing through it.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit