Beihai (North Sea) Park, located in central Beijing, was built more than 800 years ago. It is the world's oldest imperial garden.

Consisting of Beihai Lake and the Jade Flowery islet, the park covers a water area of over 700,000 square meters. The Jade Flowery islet, an artificial hill made in imitation of the fairy hills, is at the center of the park. This islet was built of earth dug out from the lake, and the rocks used for piling on the hill were brought from remote places. The Tibetan-style White Dagoba, 35.9 meters high, is the most famed landmark at Beihai Park. It was built in honor of a visiting Dalai Lama and later to house Buddhist relics. Temple of Eternal Peace is located south of the isle, housing statues of Sakyamuni and Tsong-kha-ha. To the east of the isle is the Pavilion of Ancient Manuscripts, where tablets and rubbings are kept. To the west is Jade islet in Shady Springtime tablet, one of the Eight Famous Sights in Beijing.

The most famous Fangshan (Emperor's Meal) Restaurant is also located in Beihai Park. There are 11 halls in the restaurant, which can accommodate a total of 250 people. The dishes and desserts are all imitations of imperial cuisine.

Beihai Park is also home to the famous Nine-Dragon Wall and iron Screen. The Nine-Dragon Wall served as a screen to protect a temple that no longer exists. Measuring 5 meters high, 27 meters long and 1.2 meters thick, the wall was built with colored glazed tiles. On both sides are nine dragons playing with pearls in the cloud above the blue sea.

Entry fee: 5 yuan

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