Towering above us, Pine Peak is a sight to behold. But its name doesn’t come from just any pine. It comes from the unique pine-cypress forest.
Fragrant Hills Park is where we find Pine Peak. This park has served many purposes. It was once an imperial garden. Now, it’s a public park for all to enjoy.
Let’s step back in time. The park’s story began in 1186 during the Jin dynasty. Later, the Yuan and Ming dynasties expanded it. In 1745, the Qianlong Emperor added halls and gardens. He renamed it the Garden of Tranquility and Pleasure. Sadly, war took its toll. British and French forces damaged the park in 1860. The Eight-Nation Alliance caused more harm during the Boxer Rebellion. Since 1949, the Chinese government has worked to restore it.
Pine Peak owes its name to the highest peak in Fragrant Hills Park. This peak is called Xianglu Feng. Xianglu Feng means Incense Burner Peak. The name “Xiang” refers to incense not fragrance. Incense was often used in temples.
Autumn is a special time here. The smoke tree leaves turn fiery red. Thousands of tourists visit to see the autumn colors. The annual Red Leaf Festival of Beijing has its grand opening here.
There are different routes to explore Pine Peak. The south area leads to Incense Burner Peak. This route is more challenging. It takes you across the highest point.
Did you know Mao Zedong once lived nearby? Shuangqing Villa was his residence. It was also an early headquarters for the Chinese Communist Party’s Central Committee.
Fragrant Hills Park is more than just a park. It holds history and natural beauty. Pine Peak stands as a testament to this. Its enduring presence makes it a landmark of Beijing.
As we conclude our visit to Pine Peak I hope the whispers of history and the beauty of nature stay with you.