Lotus, Pagodas, and a Whisper of Imperial China — A Day in Beihai Park

Lotus, Pagodas, and a Whisper of Imperial China — A Day in Beihai Park Tucked in the heart of Beijing, just northwest of the Forbidden City, lies one of the city’s oldest and most enchanting green spaces — Beihai Park. Stepping through the entrance feels like entering a classical Chinese painting. Willow trees dance gently along the lake’s edge, and reflections of ancient pagodas ripple across the water. I arrived early, joining locals doing tai chi near the lotus-covered pond — a scene so serene, I almost forgot I was in one of the busiest cities in the world. My favorite part of the day was climbing up Qionghua Island to the iconic White Dagoba. The view from the top is stunning — the shimmering lake below, the drum tower peeking through the city haze, and the quiet hum of old Beijing life still alive within these ancient walls. For lunch, I grabbed a light snack from a lakeside teahouse and sat under a pavilion, watching paddle boats drift lazily across the water. Children laughed, an old man played the erhu, and it felt like time had slowed down just for a moment. In the afternoon, I wandered through the Nine-Dragon Screen, admiring its colorful, glazed tiles. It’s one of only three left in China — and probably the most vivid. Beihai Park isn’t just a garden — it’s a living museum of imperial leisure, hidden beauty, and quiet joy. If you’re in Beijing, don’t miss this tranquil slice of history.