BEIHAI PARK, Tour Part 1

Hi, my name’s Jill, and I’m your personal guide. Along with MyWoWo, I’d like to welcome you to one of the Wonders of the World: Beihai Park.

This ancient garden, with a history stretching back over 1000 years, is not only one of the finest imperial gardens in China; it is also the setting for a number of splendid palaces and magnificent temples.

It was built during the Liao dynasty, between 916 and 1125, and was expanded and altered on numerous occasions. For the most important reconstruction, however, we have to thank Emperor Qianlong, who redesigned it as we see it today.  

Opened to the public in 1925, the park covers an area of around 70,000 square meters, over half of which is occupied by a lake. In the center of the lake is Jade Flower Island, dominated by the imposing White Stupa, or Bai Ta, a Buddhist shrine....