A Trip to Beijing's Yuanmingyuan Park: Where History and Nature Intertwine

I. First Encounter: Scars of History and the Beauty of Serenity Stepping into Yuanmingyuan Park, the scene of crumbling walls intertwined with verdant pines and cypresses unfolds like a timeworn scroll. As the pinnacle of Qing Dynasty imperial gardens, Yuanmingyuan, once known as the "Garden of Gardens," was tragically reduced to ruins by the Anglo-French forces in 1860 and further damaged by the Eight-Nation Alliance. Today, the ruins stand as a testament to national humiliation and a unique space where nature and history coexist. Recommended Spots: 1. The Ruins of Xiyang Lou (Western Mansions): This complex of Chinese and Western architecture features the remnants of the Grand Fountain and its base, evoking the grandeur of the waterworks. Here, the emperor would sit with the Fragrant Concubine, admiring the spectacular fountain show. The base of the reservoir, said to be constructed with bricks bonded by glutinous rice and egg whites, remains remarkably sturdy after centuries. The Haiyan Tang (Hall of Calm Seas) housed the famous twelve bronze animal heads of the Chinese zodiac, which formed a water clock, spouting water at each hour and simultaneously at noon. This ingenious timekeeping device showcases the wisdom of ancient artisans. Purchase a comprehensive ticket (including the 15 CNY entry fee for Xiyang Lou) for a closer look at the fragments of this once magnificent "Garden of Gardens." 2. Fuhai Lake: The largest lake in the park offers ice skating in winter and boating amidst blooming lotuses in summer. Pengdao Yaotai (Isle of the Immortals), once an imperial viewing spot on an island in the lake, now exists only as a foundation, yet possesses a desolate poetic beauty. 3. Ginkgo Avenue (from the intersection of the three gardens to the west entrance of Xiyang Lou): In late autumn, a golden carpet of fallen leaves stretches for nearly a kilometer, creating a photographer's paradise with its satisfying crunch underfoot. II. Yuanmingyuan Through the Seasons: A Symphony of Nature and Humanity Winter Snowscape: The snow-covered ruins and frozen Fuhai Lake create an ink-painting-like scene. The remnants of bridges and the Bronze Crane Fountain appear even more solemn under the snow, while the occasional black swan gliding across the ice adds a touch of life to the serene landscape. Summer Lotus Charm: Thousands of acres of lotus ponds come alive with blossoms, with twin lotuses becoming a popular attraction. Row a boat through the lotus leaves or stroll along the West Dike of Changchun Garden to experience the imperial summer retreat ambiance of "lotus red adorning the rain." Autumn Hues: Besides ginkgo trees, the park boasts a colorful autumn tapestry woven with Chinese ash, maple trees, and reeds. The red leaves and remaining lotus flowers around the Lion Forest and Pingxiang Xie (Apple Fragrance Pavilion) create a poetic late autumn scene. III. Cultural Experiences: A Journey Through Time 1. Shiguang Maimai Street: This reconstructed Qing Dynasty imperial temple fair offers the chance to dress in traditional costumes, savor Beijing snacks (like candied hawthorns and Zhajiangmian noodles), and experience immersive scenes created with light and shadow technology in the "Western Fantasyland." 2. Zhengjue Temple (Yuanmingyuan Museum): This free museum exhibits excavated artifacts, including some of the returned bronze animal heads (like the Horse Head) and architectural fragments, narrating the garden's journey from its peak to its destruction. 3. Wanhuazhen Maze: This restored maze, a blend of Chinese and Western design, was once a place for Qing emperors to enjoy lantern displays during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Try navigating from the entrance to the central pavilion to appreciate the ingenuity of ancient entertainment. IV. Practical Guide and Reflections - Transportation: Subway Line 4 takes you directly to the South Gate of Yuanmingyuan Station. The park is vast. - Tickets: Basic entry is 10 CNY, while a comprehensive ticket costs 25 CNY (including Xiyang Lou). Winter opening hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, extended to 7:00 pm in summer. - Food: Outside the park, you can find roast duck and Lüdagun (rolled donkey); the Fuhai Garden Restaurant offers imperial cuisine, including a replica of the Manchu Han Imperial Feast. Travel Reflections: The beauty of Yuanmingyuan's ruins lies in its "incomplete authenticity." It's not just a place for photos, but a living history book. Standing before the remnants of Xiyang Lou, one feels both the heartache of lost artistic treasures and the power of time reflected in the playful black swans and scampering squirrels. As writer Alain de Botton wrote, "Its mystery lies in its non-existence and non-replicability." Only by visiting in person can one truly grasp this sense of awe and contemplation. Tip: If time permits, combine your visit with the Summer Palace (adjacent) or Tsinghua University (near the East Gate) for a day trip to experience the contrasting atmospheres of imperial gardens and academic sanctuaries.