Fragrant Hills Park

Introducing Fragrant Hills Park
Fragrant Hills Park is a public park and former royal garden in the Haidian District, Beijing. Fragrant Hills Park has a history of over 800 years, tracing its origins back to the Jin Dynasty in 1186. Its name derives from its highest point, the aptly named Xianglu Peak (Incense Burner Peak), which rises to 557 meters (1,827 ft). From these ancient origins, the park has evolved into the sprawling 188-hectare (464-acre) landscape enjoyed today.

This expansive park artfully blends natural beauty with historical and cultural elements. Lush forests of ancient trees and vibrant flowers intertwine with meticulously designed gardens, showcasing traditional Chinese architecture and preserving cultural relics. While visitors are drawn to the park throughout the year, Fragrant Hills Park truly shines in autumn. The hillsides ignite with a breathtaking tapestry of color as the leaves change, attracting people from around the globe to witness this spectacular autumnal display.

Fragrant Hills Park Fast Facts
• AKA: Xiangshan Park
• Chinese Name: Xiāng Shān Gōng Yuán 香山公园
• Best Time to Visit: April to May, September to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 3 to 4 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Hiking
• Opening Hours: 6:00 – 19:30 (Apr – Nov), 6:00 – 19:00 (Dec – Mar)
• Entrance Fee: CNY10 (Apr – Oct), CNY5 (Nov – Mar)
• Address: Approx. 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) northwest of Beijing

What to Expect at Fragrant Hills Park
Once the exclusive summer retreat of emperors seeking respite from the heat and pressures of court life, this historic park offers a unique opportunity for nature lovers to experience the beauty and tranquility that captivated emperors for generations, and sense the weight of history within the ancient architecture.

Incense Burner Peak
Incense Burner Peak (Xianglu Peak), the highest point within Fragrant Hills Park, offers a rewarding climb and breathtaking panoramic views. Named for its resemblance to an incense burner, the peak is especially popular in autumn when the surrounding hillsides explode with vibrant reds and golds. The ascent, a steep climb via a stone staircase, can be challenging but culminates in stunning vistas of the park below, the distant Beijing skyline, and the surrounding mountain ranges. Adding to the peak’s allure are its unique rock formations and three historic pavilions situated at the summit. It remains a must-see destination within Fragrant Hills Park for any visitor seeking spectacular views and a taste of natural beauty.

Fragrant Hills Temple
The Fragrant Hills Temple, a site repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt, stands today as a 2017 replica of the original imperial temple. Nestled into the mountainside, its halls are arranged in a magnificent and structured manner. The temple’s most remarkable feature is a stone screen before the Hall of Mahavira. Its front displays engraved scriptures—the Heart Sutra, the Diamond Sutra, and the Eight Awakenings of Great Beings Sutra—handwritten by the Qianlong Emperor (reigned 1735-1796). Even more remarkable are the images on the reverse: Manjushri Bodhisattva (Bodhisattva of wisdom), Dipamkara Buddha (Buddha who prophesied Shakyamuni Buddha’s enlightenment), and Guanyin Bodhisattva (Bodhisattva of compassion), drawn by the emperor himself in 1749. These drawings are exceptionally rare, especially compared to his abundant calligraphy, making the screen a priceless artifact.

Biyun Temple
The Biyun Temple, a renowned Buddhist temple covering over 40,000 square meters, is nestled on the northern slopes of the park. Originally constructed in 1331, the temple faces east, its imposing halls and pavilions ascending the hillside. These include traditional Buddhist structures such as the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Bell and Drum Towers, the Maitreya Buddha Hall, and the Hall of the Mahavira. In addition to its traditional Buddhist architecture, Biyun Temple also houses the significant Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall.

Sun Yat-sen (1866-1925) was a Chinese revolutionary and statesman, known as the “Father of Modern China.” He played a pivotal role in the overthrow of the Qing dynasty in 1911 and the establishment of the Republic of China. Inside the solemn memorial hall, a white marble statue of Sun Yat-sen stands at the center. The main hall displays precious artifacts, including his calligraphy and writings.

The Hall of Diligent Governance
Constructed in 1745, the Hall of Diligent Governance (Qinzheng Dian) is the defining landmark of the park. This majestic hall served as the nerve center of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) emperors’ activities during their sojourns at what was then called Jingyi Garden. Here, emperors conducted daily affairs of state and received dignitaries, projecting an aura of imperial power. Its historical and architectural importance makes it a key cultural treasure for both the park and the city.

Loyalty Hall
Jianxin Zhai (Loyalty Hall), a beautifully preserved Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) building dating back to 1522, offers a glimpse into the imperial past. Surrounded by lush greenery, the simple yet elegant structure invites quiet contemplation. “Jianxin,” meaning “Test Loyalty,” reflects the hall’s intriguing history. Legend has it that emperors of the Ming Dynasty used this very spot to test the loyalty of their officials, carefully observing their reactions to staged scenarios or whispered rumors.

How to Get to Fragrant Hills Park
• The Fragrant Hills Park is located approx. 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) northwest of Beijing.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free transfer to the Fragrant Hills Park.

Additional Travel Advice on Fragrant Hills Park
• Biyun Temple and Fragrant Hill Temple is closed on Mondays, except the Chinese statutory holidays.
• Please wear comfortable walking shoes with a good grip.
• Prepare drinkable water, and wear sunscreen, hat and sunglasses to prevent sunburns in summer.