Zizhuyuan Park Beijing

Zizhuyuan Park (紫竹院公园)

Zizhuyuan Park (紫竹院公园) is one of the capital's most beautiful parks. It is situated in the Haidian District of northwestern Beijing and comprises three picturesque lakes with small islands within them.

The lakes are connected by bridges. The water is full of lotus flowers in summer and surrounded by tall willow trees. Here and there pavilions offer shade and a place to relax.

There are several groves of splendid bamboo hence its name of "Purple Bamboo Park" - indeed around 50 species of bamboo can be found here. Some of the buildings, bridges and other structures are constructed from the bamboo grown here.

Also of note are the lovely peach and plum blossoms which flower in spring.

History

The dredging of the lakes and building of the artificial hills dates from the 12th century with further renovations during the Ming dynasty and again in 1959.

The Wanli Emperor constructed a royal garden on the lakes in 1577. The bamboo was planted at a later date.

Several pavilions add splendor to the 117-acre grounds first and foremost the beautiful Bayixuan Pavilion.