Question: Ever wondered where Beijing gets its fresh air?
Welcome to Baiwang Mountain Forest Park. It is the urban oxygen source of Beijing. The park is the closest forest park to Beijing. It is located just three kilometers north of the Summer Palace.
Baiwang Mountain Forest Park covers over 200 hectares. The Jing-Mi diversion canal curves around it. Baiwang Mountain is the first peak of the Taihang Mountain Range. The range extends to the North China Plain. It stands tall at 210 meters. Climb to the top. Overlook the visual feast of North China Plain.
The park’s vegetation coverage is over 95%. It has a reputation as Beijing’s urban oxygen source. The air is rich in negative oxygen ions. Breathe deeply. Feel the freshness.
Each autumn, the mountain transforms. It displays splendid red foliage. The common smoke tree dominates. Torch trees add to the spectacle. Their red leaves resemble countless burning torches. The autumnal shades here are special. The park has a great variety of trees. There are also many mature maples.
After the first frost in September, the red leaves become even more charming. Saunter through the enchanting park. Feel wreathed in a red mist. From a pavilion on the mountain peak, the red leaves look like unfolding umbrellas. Visit at sunset. The bewitching red leaves contrast with the setting sun.
Vast stone forests line the mountain slope. You will see stele pavilions and stele corridors. Admire the poetry walls. Roam this land of rich artistic features. Appreciate over 1,000 pieces of work. These works are by Chinese leaders and reputed public figures. Noted artists created them too. A stele pavilion commemorates Chairman Mao’s 100th Anniversary. It was built in 1993. The white marble tablet bears Chairman Mao’s inscriptions.
A memorial hall in the park tells a story. It is about over 200 revolutionary martyrs. See a collection of precious photos. Read letters of the forerunners. Discover historical interest in Sh’e Temple. It is in memory of a heroine from the Northern Song Dynasty. She lived from 960 to 1127.
Baiwang Mountain Forest Park offers various activities. Try rock-climbing or orienteering. Enjoy the music bar on the mountain top. Twelve rock-climbing routes cater to all skill levels.
Remember Baiwang Mountain Forest Park. It is more than just a park. It’s a lung for Beijing. It’s a canvas of art and history. And it’s a place for adventure.