The Emperor's Quicksnow Pavilion

The Quicksnow Pavilion (Kuai Xue Tang) is located on the north shore of Beihai Park in Beijing. It is a building with a rich history and cultural significance. Below is a detailed introduction to the Quicksnow Pavilion: Architectural History • Construction Time and Purpose: The Quicksnow Pavilion was first built in the 44th year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign in the Qing Dynasty (1779). It was initially built by the Qianlong Emperor to house the "Preface to the Poems Collected from the Orchid Pavilion" by Wang Xizhi, a renowned calligrapher of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, as well as stone inscriptions of calligraphy and painting works by 20 famous artists from the Jin to Yuan Dynasties. • Courtyard Composition: The Quicksnow Pavilion complex consists of three courtyards: Chengguan Hall, Yulan Xuan, and Quicksnow Pavilion. These buildings are constructed along the sloping terrain, forming a complete courtyard-style layout. Architectural Features • Nanmu Wood Material: The main hall of the Quicksnow Pavilion is constructed from precious nanmu wood. This type of wood is insect-resistant, decay-resistant, and durable. Even after hundreds of years, the wood remains smooth and emits a delicate fragrance on rainy days. • Stone Inscription Art: The walls of the east and west corridors of the Quicksnow Pavilion are inlaid with 48 stone inscriptions of the "Quicksnow Pavilion Calligraphy Rubbings." These inscriptions contain 80 pieces of calligraphy by 20 calligraphers from the Jin to Yuan Dynasties, most of which are copied from original works, and hold high artistic value. • Garden Landscape: The Quicksnow Pavilion overlooks Taiye Lake and faces Qiong Island. The courtyard layout is exquisite, featuring elements such as double-eaved hanging flower gates, scenic windows, and corridors. The various trees and flowers are arranged according to their blooming periods, ensuring that the courtyard has flowers and fruits for three seasons and remains evergreen throughout the year. Cultural Value • Inheritance of Calligraphic Art: As a treasure trove of calligraphy, the "Quicksnow Pavilion Calligraphy Rubbings" held within the pavilion are of great significance for studying the development of ancient Chinese calligraphy. It not only preserves a large number of precious calligraphy works but also provides valuable resources for calligraphy enthusiasts to learn and research. • Historical Witness: The Quicksnow Pavilion has witnessed the inheritance and development of Chinese calligraphy and embodies the Qing Dynasty's emphasis on and admiration for culture and art. During the Republic of China period, the Quicksnow Pavilion also served as the "Songpo Library," contributing to the dissemination and exchange of culture. Tourist Information • Opening Hours: The Quicksnow Pavilion is generally open to visitors during the park's opening hours. It is recommended to check Beihai Park's opening hours in advance to plan your trip. • Ticket Price: As part of Beihai Park, the Quicksnow Pavilion is usually included in the park's entrance fee, and no additional ticket purchase is required. • Transportation Guide: The Quicksnow Pavilion is located within Beihai Park in Xicheng District, Beijing. You can take public transportation such as the subway or bus to Beihai Park and then walk into the park to visit the Quicksnow Pavilion.