Beijing’s Top 5 Parks

Beijing is a city that is not short of things to do, but in those baking summer months, the many temples and historical sites can become a little hot and bothersome. If you are sick of sightseeing the perfect way to spend the day is exploring some of Beijing's green areas. There are many parks to choose from in the city and they make a welcome relief to crazy city life.

In China people love being at the park, every park has many different areas for people to enjoy and you will find a whole array of people, practicing their hobbies, and enjoying the green spaces. Usually the parks aren’t too busy unless it’s cherry blossom season or ginkgo season then you will find lots of people heading to specific parks to take photos.

I have put together a list of my top 5 parks in Beijing - don't forget to check out my accompanying video at the bottom!

1. BEIHAI PARK

Beihai Park is about as central as you can get in Beijing and is mostly made up of a giant lake with an island in the middle. On the day we visited, the weather was not so great, but on a summer's day you will see loads of boats pinging around the lake. I recommend walking up the steep steps to the iconic white pagoda to see some great views. There is a small fee to enter the park but it is worth it. It is a tranquil escape from a bustling day in the city.

2. JINGSHAN PARK

‌Pretty much next door to Beihai Park is the smaller, but no less stunning, Jingshan Park. If you have spent the day exploring the historical sights of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City then this is a great place to end it. The lower park has many beautiful gardens and if you climb up to the temple on the hill, which is one of the highest points in Beijing, you will be rewarded with amazing views overlooking the Forbidden city and the surrounding area. This is the place to come for sunset and it has quickly become one of Beijing's main Instagram spots. Beware though, you may not be the only photographer jostling for position. There is a small fee to enter the park.

3. TEMPLE OF EARTH PARK (DITAN PARK)

‌Both Beihai Park and Jingshan Park can get a little busy with tourists so if you are after a place with a more local flavour then I recommend a visit to the Temple Of Earth Park (Ditan Park), which is just a couple of miles away in Andingmen. This isn't a park that is wonderfully green and the temple is no longer accessible but this is the place to come to mingle with laid back locals. People flock here to practice their dance moves, belt out old revolutionary songs and limber up in the outdoor gym. Entrance is only 2 RMB and it is practically opposite the Lama temple and makes a refreshing antidote to a tiring day of touristic sightseeing. After you've watched the sun setting over the park you can head to Wudaoying Hutong which has some beautiful shops, cool eateries and rooftop bars.

4. CHAOYANG PARK

‌Further East is Chaoyang Park, which takes its name from the trendy district in which it is located. This park is one of the largest and you could easily spend a day here. You can rent a boat, play some sport, or just chill out - there is even an amusement park in which you can while away the hours. 

After a day spent soaking up the sun, head into Sanlitun for a refreshing craft beer and burger and rub shoulders with the many expats that call Beijing home. There are so many options in this area you will be spoilt for choice.

5. OLYMPIC PARK

‌If you become a bit jaded from the big city life, then head out to the Olympic Park, which lies to the north of the city. This green space is one of the amazing legacies of the 2008 games and a day trip here feels like a proper excursion. The park is huge and has many different sections, one being its wetland section which is home to some amazing Water Lillies and if you go at the right time of year fields of sunflowers are in bloom in the northwest of the park. There is also a running track that surrounds the park. If you venture to this area it's worth making the trip down the road to more Olympic legacies including the Water Cube and to the iconic Bird's nest stadium - one of the most recognisable Olympic venues of all time. The most daring among you can even take a walk on the roof. 

Beijing’s parks are used by people all year round, each season offers something different so no matter what time of year you go make sure you manage to fit in a trip to the park. Honestly I think it is one of my favourite things to do in any city that I visit. Head to a local park for an authentic look at Chinese life.

Check out my video to see the parks in all their glory…

If you need some help planning your itinerary for your Beijing (and China) trip then get in touch I can help you!