As the highest point in the city, Jingshan Park offers a spectacular view of the entire city. It was built in 1179 during the Jin Dynasty and boasts a history of more than 800 years. This Park is located directly to the north of the Forbidden City's Shenwu Gate. Originally, the park was a part of the Forbidden City, until the early 1900s when walls were destroyed and modern streets were constructed.
Jingshan Park is approximately 57 acres with Jingshan Hill rising to a height of 48 meters. What is most impressive about the hill is that it was man-made: the hill was built from soil and rocks excavated to build the lakes of Zhongnanhai and Beihai. The hill, originally named ''Long Live Hill,'' was originally built during the Ming Dynasty; later, it was named 'Zhen Hill'. In the late periods of the Ming Dynasty, coal was piled up at the foot of the hills hence a name that is often given to it, 'Mei Shan' (Coal Hill). Finally, in 1655 during the Qing Dynasty , the name was changed to Jingshan Hill.
From Jingshan's summit, one can clearly see the layout of the Forbidden City. Five pavilions are at the summit: Wanchun Pavilion (Ten Thousand Spring Pavilion) is the highest pavilion on the hill. There are four others, two on the east and two on the west. Each pavilion contained a copper Buddha symbolizing the five kinds of tastes: sour, spicy, bitter, sweet and salty.
There are other historical sites worth checking out including Shouhuang Palace (Hall of Imperial Longevity), located at the northern foot of Jingshan Hill. The palace was an original site where imperial families would pay their respect to their ancestors. East of the Shouhuang Palace are Yongsi and the Guande Palaces, which served as an Ancestral Worship Center to emperors and empresses of the Qing Dynasty.
The best time to visit the park is in the late spring (late April to mid-May), when all the peonies are in bloom.
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It is true that Jingshan Park offers a spectacular view of the entire city and gives an opportunity for family trip. I went there before going with http://www.getbustours.com/3-Day-Toronto-to-Ottawa-Montreal-Quebec-City-1000-Island.html and had a great time there with my entire family. Long Live Hill is my favorite point of this park. After reading your descriptive blog I want to go there again to refresh my memories.
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