“Watch your step here” I say, my hand outstretched, as we approach \u67ab\u6811\u5cad\u666f\u70b9. Fragrant Hills Park is one of Beijing’s major attractions. It is more than just a park. It’s a journey through history and nature.
Fragrant Hills Park was built in 1186 during the Jin dynasty. Emperors expanded it during the Yuan and Ming dynasties. The Qianlong Emperor added halls and gardens in 1745. He renamed it the Garden of Tranquility and Pleasure.
British and French forces damaged the park in 1860. They burned the Old Summer Palace. The Eight-Nation Alliance caused further damage in 1900. Since 1949, the Chinese government has restored and developed the area.
The name \u67ab\u6811\u5cad\u666f\u70b9 comes from Xianglu Feng. That means Incense Burner Peak. The name refers to incense not fragrance. Incense was often used as a symbol for temples.
When autumn arrives the park transforms. Smoke tree leaves turn fiery red. Thousands of tourists ride cable cars to see the autumn colors. The annual Red Leaf Festival of Beijing has its grand opening here.
There are two main routes through the park. The north route includes Spectacles Lake. It also includes the Study of Reading Heart and Bright Temple. The Study of Reading Heart was built in the Ming dynasty. Bright Temple is a Tibetan-style temple complex. It was built in 1780.
The south route includes Tranquility Green Lake. It also includes Shuangqing Villa. Plus, you’ll find Fragrant Temple and Incense Burner Peak. This route is more challenging. It crosses the highest peak.
Shuangqing Villa was once Mao Zedong’s residence. It was an early headquarters for the Chinese Communist Party. The Temple of Azure Clouds is just outside the north gate.
Consider taking city bus 318, 331, 360, 634, 714 or 733 to reach Fragrant Hills Park. Alternatively, take subway Line 4 to Beigongmen Station. Then transfer to bus 563 to the park’s east gate.
Each October the Red Maple Festival attracts many visitors. Jingcui Lake is the closest place to view the red leaves. Fragrant Hill Temple is the birthplace of Fragrant Hill culture. It offers history and natural beauty.
The best time to see maple leaves is from mid-October to mid-November. You can also enjoy the yellow gingko leaves. For bicycle lovers cycling to Fragrant Hill is very popular. You can climb the hill by bike. Or you can experience off-road downhill biking.
Outside the park, there is a business street. It sells traditional Beijing snacks and local products.
Enjoy the tea in Jianxinzhai. This place has fewer visitors. Don’t forget to visit the Xiangshan Hotel. It was designed by Ieoh Ming Pei. It offers a glimpse into Chinese architecture. Try to visit on weekdays. Avoid national holidays and weekends.
\u67ab\u6811\u5cad\u666f\u70b9 provides a blend of history, nature and culture. I hope you enjoyed our walk through this amazing place.