Introduction to Fragrant Hills Park in Beijing

1.Overview of Fragrant Hills Park

Fragrant Hills Park is located in the northwest suburbs of Beijing, approximately 20 kilometers from the city center, boasting a prime geographical location. This historically significant park is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and charming natural scenery, making it one of Beijing's famous tourist destinations. Covering an area of over 16,000 square meters, with its highest peak being Xianglu Peak, reaching an elevation of 557 meters, the park features undulating terrain, picturesque mountains, and babbling streams, earning it the nickname "Back Garden."

Fragrant Hills Park is celebrated for its long history, abundant cultural significance, and unique natural environment. The park is adorned with ancient towering trees, dense vegetation, with over 5,000 precious ancient trees, and a forest coverage rate exceeding 96%. The fresh air and beautiful natural scenery make it a place where visitors can linger and forget to leave.

Reference: Beijing Fragrant Hills Park: Harmony of Nature and History

2. Introduction to Main Attractions

2.1 Xianglu Peak

Located at the highest point of Fragrant Hills Park, Xianglu Peak offers magnificent panoramic views. At the peak, there are three pavilions, each with its own distinctive features. Legend has it that the peak is named after its rock formations resembling incense burners, making it an excellent spot for visitors to ascend and enjoy the distant views.

Xianglu Peak

2.2 Qinzhou Palace (Palace of Diligent Government)

Qinzhou Palace, situated at the east gate of Fragrant Hills Park, is one of the most famous attractions in the area. This palace once served as the imperial palace of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, used for handling government affairs and hosting officials. With its grand architecture, Qinzhou Palace exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient Chinese royal architecture, symbolizing diligent governance.

2.3 Qingyun Temple

Qingyun Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple in Fragrant Hills Park with a history of over 600 years. The solemn and serene temple, enveloped in incense, is a place where believers devoutly pray for blessings. The temple also houses many precious Buddhist relics, providing visitors with a spiritual experience.

2.4 Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

The Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall commemorates the great revolutionary pioneer of modern China, Dr. Sun Yat-sen. In 1925, Dr. Sun Yat-sen passed away in Beijing, and his body was once laid to rest here. The memorial hall displays Dr. Sun Yat-sen's relics and valuable historical documents, showcasing his great achievements and spirit.

2.5 Mirror Lake

Mirror Lake is a natural lake within Fragrant Hills Park, named for its resemblance to a pair of glasses. The clear water of the lake is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a pleasant scenery. Pavilions such as Miaori Pavilion are built along the lake, where visitors can admire the lake, feel the lake breeze, and appreciate the beauty of nature.

3. Maple Leaves and Other Distinctive Landscapes

Fragrant Hills Park is renowned for its autumnal display of red maple leaves. From mid-October to mid-November each year, the hills come alive with vibrant shades of red, creating a spectacular sight. Additionally, the park features many other distinctive landscapes, including gingko trees. Visitors can choose to take a cable car or ride a bicycle along designated routes to admire these beautiful scenes and experience the charm of nature.

4. Fragrant Hills Cable Car:

The cable car at Fragrant Hills Park offers a convenient and exciting way to tour the scenic area. This cable car route traverses the northern part of the park, taking visitors from the foot of the mountain to its highest point, Xianglu Peak, providing an exhilarating aerial journey for visitors.

1.Routes and Stations:

  • - The cable car route comprises three stations: the foot, the middle, and the mountaintop. Visitors can choose to board or disembark at different stations as per their preference.
  • - The foot station is located at the park's entrance and serves as the starting point for visitors to board the cable car.
  • - The middle station is a midway stop and a transfer point for visitors.
  • - The mountaintop station, situated at the highest point of Fragrant Hills, offers the best vantage point for panoramic views.

2. Cable Car Experience:

  • - The cable car gently ascends and descends, allowing visitors to overlook the entire Fragrant Hills Park from the sky and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
  • - As the cable car ascends, visitors can feel themselves gradually immersed in the natural landscape, as if intimately connected with nature.

3. Scenic Experience:

  • - From the cable car, visitors can admire the magnificent mountain scenery, lush greenery, enchanting lake views within Fragrant Hills Park, as well as the panoramic view of Beijing city in the distance.
  • - The cable car moves slowly through the air, allowing visitors to capture unforgettable moments with photographs and cherish the memories.

4. Touring Suggestions:

  • - It is recommended for visitors to check the weather conditions before boarding the cable car and choose clear days for the experience to ensure the best views.
  • - Visitors can opt to spend some time at the mountaintop station, explore surrounding attractions on foot, or relax on the mountaintop viewing platform, enjoying the fresh air and captivating scenery.

In conclusion, Fragrant Hills Park in Beijing offers an excellent blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and recreational activities. Whether it's enjoying panoramic views, exploring historical sites, or indulging in autumnal splendor and water activities, visitors are sure to find tranquility and delight amidst its offerings.

Q: Where is Fragrant Hills Park located?

A: Fragrant Hills Park is located in the northwest suburbs of Beijing, approximately 20 kilometers from the city center.

Q: What are some notable features of Fragrant Hills Park?

A: Fragrant Hills Park boasts a rich cultural heritage, diverse natural scenery, and over 5,000 ancient trees covering over 96% of its area.

Q: How is Fragrant Hills Park described in terms of its landscape?

A: The park features undulating terrain, picturesque mountains, babbling streams, and is often referred to as the "Back Garden" due to its natural beauty.