The Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park is located at No.28 Qinghua West Road, Haidian District, Beijing. As a national 5A-level cultural tourist attraction, it consists of three gardens: Yuanmingyuan, Changchun Garden, and Qichun Garden. The total area of the ruins covers about 352 hectares, including a water surface area of approximately 140 hectares and a building area of about 160,000 square meters. Combining the grandeur of northern royal gardens, the elegance of southern Chinese private gardens, and the artistic style of Western landscapes, it is renowned as the "Garden of Gardens."
History and Culture
Constructed in the 46th year of the Kangxi reign (1707), Yuanmingyuan was a large imperial palace developed and maintained by six Qing Dynasty emperors (Kangxi, Yongzheng, Qianlong, Jiaqing, Daoguang, and Xianfeng) over 150 years. After ascending the throne, Emperor Yongzheng initiated plans to expand Yuanmingyuan, shifting the Qing Dynasty's political center from the Forbidden City to this imperial garden. Emperor Qianlong further oversaw large-scale expansions and renovations, bringing Yuanmingyuan to its peak during his reign.
In 1860, Yuanmingyuan was brutally looted and burned by the Anglo-French Allied Forces. Although partial reconstructions occurred during the Tongzhi and Guangxu reigns, they were on a small scale. In 1900, the Eight-Nation Alliance invaded Beijing, causing further destruction to the remaining structures. During the Republic of China era, systematic plundering by warlords and bureaucratic forces, along with deliberate destruction by the Peiping Municipal Government, reduced the garden to ruins.
Since the founding of the People's Republic of China, the government has prioritized protecting the Yuanmingyuan ruins. In 1988, the Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park was designated a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit and opened to the public. It was listed as one of the first National Archaeological Site Parks in 2010 and awarded National 5A-level Tourist Attraction status in 2019.
Main Attractions
Western-Style Architecture Complex
This European-style garden complex in Yuanmingyuan includes key sites such as Xieqiqu (Harmonious Wonder), Huanghuazhen (Maze), Yangquelong (Bird Cage), Fangwaiguan (Temple of Universal Light), Haiyantang (Hall of Calm Seas), and Yuanyingguan (Far-Reaching View). Featuring Baroque and Rococo elements, it represents a precious heritage of Sino-Western cultural exchange.
Da Shui Fa (Grand Fountain)
The main attraction of the Western-Style Architecture Complex, this artificial fountain amazed with its numerous water features, grand scale, and innovative design. The fountain group incorporated advanced hydraulic engineering and landscape architecture for its time.
Fu Hai (Sea of Blessings)
Yuanmingyuan's largest lake, Fu Hai is surrounded by scenic spots including Jiajing Mingqin (Mirrored Pavilions and Singing Lutes), Zaoshen Yude (Cleansing Body and Bathing Virtue), Kuoran Dagong (Grand View), Pinghu Qiuyue (Moon over Peaceful Lake), Hanxu Langjian (Clear Mirror of the Mind), Jiexiushanfang (Mountain Villa of Picking Beauty), Fanghu Shengjing (Wonderland of Fanghu), and Pengdao Yaotai (Fairy Terrace on Penglai Island). Its diverse water scenes and unique garden landscapes attract countless visitors.
Jiuzhou Qingyan (Pure Peace in Nine Provinces)
This palace complex served as the emperor's residence and administrative center. The solemn and elegant architecture reflects the majesty of the royal court.
Culinary Delights
Beijing Zha Jiang Mian (Noodles with Soy Bean Paste)
A quintessential Beijing dish, the chewy noodles are served with rich soybean paste and fresh toppings like cucumber shreds and bean sprouts. Authentic versions can be found in time-honored eateries around the park.
Lamb Spine Hot Pot
A traditional winter specialty, this dish features tender lamb spine stewed in a flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for cold days visiting Yuanmingyuan.
Douzhi (Fermented Bean Juice) with Jiaojuan (Fried Dough Twists)
A classic old Beijing pairing, tangy douzhi is served with crispy jiaojuan. This unique combination has been a local favorite for generations.
Beijing Roast Duck
World-famous for its crispy skin and tender meat, local restaurants near Yuanmingyuan serve slices as thin as cicada wings, accompanied by lotus leaf pancakes, sweet bean paste, and shredded scallions and cucumbers.
Ticket Information
Ticket types and prices include:
- Main Gate Ticket: ¥10/person (access to all areas except Western-Style Ruins and Sand Table Exhibition)
- Western-Style Ruins Ticket: ¥15/person
- Sand Table Panorama Exhibition Ticket: ¥10/person
- Comprehensive Ticket: ¥25/person (includes all areas)
For the latest updates and online booking, search for the official WeChat public account "圆明园遗址公园".
Opening Hours
January 1–March 15 & October 16–December 31: 7:00–19:30 (last ticket sale at 17:30)
March 16–April 30 & September 1–October 15: 7:00–20:00 (last ticket sale at 18:00)
May 1–August 31: 7:00–21:00 (last ticket sale at 19:00)
Recommended Itineraries
Half-Day Tour: Start with the Western-Style Ruins, followed by the Yuanmingyuan Panorama Sand Table, Exhibition Hall, Fu Hai scenic area, and finish at the Jiuzhou Qingyan ruins. Allow 3–4 hours for walking, adjustable based on stamina.
Transportation
- Bus: Take routes 331, 432, 498, 508, 579, 664, or Te 19 to Yuanmingyuan South Gate Station.
- Subway: Take Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Station, Exit B.
Must-See Attractions
- Western-Style Architecture Ruins: Iconic European-style remains reflecting historical grandeur and cultural exchange.
- Da Shui Fa (Grand Fountain): A marvel of ancient hydraulic engineering, perfect for photos and historical reflection.
- Fu Hai (Sea of Blessings): Explore the vast lake and surrounding gardens, ideal for boating and scenic walks.
Visitor Tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons.
- Rent an audio guide (¥20) or join a guided tour (¥100/group) for deeper historical insights.
- Wear comfortable shoes—expect 3–4 hours of walking across the expansive site.
- Visit in spring (April–May) for cherry blossoms or autumn (October–November) for ginkgo and maple foliage.
Notes
- Respect heritage sites: Do not climb on ruins or touch exposed relics.
- Keep the environment clean by using designated trash bins.
- Stay behind guardrails near Fu Hai to ensure safety, especially with children.
- Smoking and open fires are prohibited throughout the park.
- Be considerate of other visitors in crowded areas like the Western-Style Ruins.