Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan Park)
The former imperial garden of Xiangshan known as Fragrant Hills is at the foot of the Western Hills in the Haidian District of northwestern Beijing.
The area is known for its fall foliage when it seems half of the city arrives to view the striking red maples amid a sea of pine and cypress trees.
Visitors can either climb to the summit of Xianglu Feng (Incense Burner Peak) at 557 meters or take the chair lift.
History
The park dates originally from the 12th century and the Jin dynasty (1115-1234). It was significantly enlarged during the Yuan dynasty and Ming dynasty.
The slopes of the wooded hills contain many pavilions, The Temple of Azure Clouds (Biyun Si) and the impressive Fragrant Hills Pagoda (香山琉璃塔).
The nearby Old Summer Palace was burned and looted in 1860 by British troops during the Second Opium War but its ruins are still an interesting sight. Also partially destroyed were the Bright Temple (Zhao Miao), an 18th century residence for the Panchen Lama and the Studio of Tranquil Heart. The latter was restored in 1979.
Spectacles Lake (Yanjing Lake) in the park consists of two ponds spanned by a bridge, hence the name.
There are several walking trails through the park. Also of interest is the Shuangqing Villa, at one time the residence of Mao Zedong.
The Fragrant Hill Empark Hotel Beijing is a five star hotel in the area designed by I. M. Pei. Facilities include tennis courts, an indoor pool, and two restaurants and a bar.
Access - how to get to Xiangshan Park
Xiangshan Park is 30 km northwest of central Beijing.
Take Line 10 of the Beijing subway to Bagou Station. Transfer here to the Western Suburban Line for Xiangshan Station.
The entrance of the park is about 1 km from the station. Alternatively, take Line 4 to Beigongmen Station and then bus 563. Also buses 318, 331, 360, 630 and 698 all go to Xiangshan Station from various parts of Beijing.
The park is open from 6 am to 6 pm, 5.30 pm or 7 pm depending on the time of year.
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