An excellent depiction of traditional Chinese imperial garden design, the Imperial Gardens exemplify the marriage of flower beds, trees, and rock sculptures. There are four distinct corners in the Imperial Gardens each with its own pavilion. These four pavilions represent each of the four seasons.
THE IMPERIAL GARDENS
At the northern end of the Imperial Gardens is the Gate of Divine Might. This is the formal exit from the Forbidden City leading into Jingshan Park.
THE IMPERIAL GARDENS
THE IMPERIAL GARDENS
THE IMPERIAL GARDENS
JINGSHAN PARK
Getting to the top of this 3 story pavilion on top of the highest peak in the park is no small feat. The hike is nothing but vertical step after vertical step, but the view from the top is unparalleled.
JINGSHAN PARK
JINGSHAN PARK
gLike
A DAY IN: THE IMPERIAL CITY
THE IMPERIAL GARDENS
Outside of the Gate of Terrestrial Tranquility in the Forbidden City lies the Imperial Gardens. Stretching some 12,000 square meters, these gardens were once a private retreat for the imperial family.
JINGSHAN PARK
Believe it or not, this entire hill complex is man made. During the Ming Dynasty, all of the dirt and rocks excavated for the Imperial Palace's moat was moved via manual labor to what is now called Jingshan Park. On top of each peak sits an architectural designed pavilion that was only opened to Chinese officials.
