Hidden within the serene landscape of Tsinghua University lies a captivating relic. This is the Jingxing Bridge a testament to the past. It stands as a solitary reminder of the once grand Proximity Spring Garden.
The Proximity Spring Garden a place of imperial residence during the Qing Dynasty. It was once the heart of the Rongchun Garden. This garden was part of the “Round Ming Five Gardens”. The garden was bestowed upon the Emperor’s four sons. It was affectionately known as “Four Sons Garden”.
In 1860 the Anglo-French Allied forces invaded Beijing. The Round Ming Garden and Changchun Garden were ravaged by fire. The Proximity Spring Garden suffered partial destruction. Its core however remained intact. Later in 1874 parts of the Proximity Spring Garden were demolished. The stones were used for repairing the Round Ming Garden. The Proximity Spring Garden fell into disrepair. It remained a desolate island for over 120 years.
In 1913 the Proximity Spring Garden became part of Tsinghua University. It was then known as Tsinghua Garden. In 1979 the university reconstructed the island. It became the Proximity Spring Garden Ruins Park. To commemorate the famous essay “Pavilion Moon Color” by the renowned writer Bing Zaiqing a pavilion was built on the island.
The Jingxing Bridge you see before you is a reconstruction. It mirrors the original bridge that was part of the Proximity Spring Garden. It is built in a style that reflects the Qing dynasty. The Jingxing Bridge is the only historically significant structure. It stands as a unique testament to the garden’s legacy within Tsinghua University. It is a quiet bridge a place of reflection a connection to a rich and often forgotten history. As you walk across it feel the weight of time. Feel the spirit of the Proximity Spring Garden whisper secrets of emperors and scholars. Let this modest bridge remind you of a garden’s enduring spirit. A spirit that persists even in ruins.