Trip Overview
When: December 2025 (winter, but surprisingly pleasant for a sunny day)
Duration: 1 day
Travelers: Solo traveler
Budget: ~30 RMB (~$4 USD) - incredibly affordable!
Transportation: Beijing Metro Line 4 or bus
Essential Foreigner Info
Getting There: Take Metro Line 4 to Taoran Pavilion Station (陶然亭站), exit C. The park has East, South, and North gates—East Gate is closest to the metro. Alternatively, several bus routes stop nearby.
Money Matters: This is a cash-friendly park! Entry is only 2 RMB (~$0.28 USD). Most vendors accept WeChat Pay, but having small bills doesn't hurt.
Language: English signage is limited. Key phrases to know: 陶然亭 (Táorán Tíng) - Taoran Pavilion, 慈悲庵 (Cí'bēi'ān) - Mercy Temple, 公园 (Gōngyuán) - Park.
Timing: Open year-round 06:00-21:00. Winter visits mean fewer crowds but some attractions may have reduced hours.
Winter Activities: In winter, the lake freezes and transforms into an ice/snow playground—locals ice skate and ride snow tubes on the lake!
Morning: Entering the Park
On a warm winter afternoon, I set out for Taoran Pavilion Park (陶然亭公园), a hidden gem in Beijing's Xicheng District. Even in December, the winter sun felt surprisingly gentle—perfect for a leisurely stroll. This is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction, established in 1952, blending classical Chinese architecture with modern garden design.
The park covers 590,000 square meters—about 145 acres—with 170,000 square meters (42 acres) being water. That's a lot of lake to explore!
Taoran Pavilion Park East Gate (陶然亭公园东门): I entered through the East Gate, which leads directly to the main attractions.
Before heading in, I checked the park map—the layout is intuitive, with the central lake divided by three bridges into East, West, and South lakes. The Lake Island (湖心岛), where the famous Taoran Pavilion and Mercy Temple sit, is the centerpiece.
Morning exercisers dot the pathways—tai chi practitioners, dancers, and walkers enjoying the crisp winter air. Beijingers really know how to embrace outdoor life, even in colder months.
The Tan Ying Liu Jin (潭影流金) scenic area has a quiet elegance in winter. With fewer visitors, the willow-lined paths and gnarled trees create a contemplative atmosphere—the kind of melancholy beauty that Chinese poetry loves.
Fallen leaves, bare trees, and winding corridors—what this scene lacks in vibrant color, it makes up for in serenity. A few other visitors wander the paths, but there's plenty of solitude to soak in the atmosphere.
The covered walkways are lined with gray tiles, lending an ancient, weathered charm to the landscape. These corridors connect different areas of the park and provide sheltered spots to rest.
Winding corridors paired with strategically placed rocks create a deliberately cultivated sense of carefree comfort—proof that winter doesn't mean beauty disappears, just changes form.
The park is never short on activity—locals do tai chi, walk dogs, play cards, and generally enjoy life. Even in winter, the energy is contagious.
The Lake Island: Heart of the Park
Crossing the Jade Rainbow Bridge (玉虹桥), I made my way to Lake Island, where the park's most historically significant sites cluster together.
Yu Hong Qiao (玉虹桥): This charming bridge connects the main shore to Lake Island. It's a classic Chinese garden bridge, arching gracefully over the water.
Kite-flying enthusiasts line the bridge, taking advantage of the open space and wind. I spot elaborate traditional kites—some shaped like birds, others like mythical creatures—floating against the gray winter sky.
Magpie kite: In Chinese culture, magpies symbolize good fortune and happiness—seeing these cheerful birds dancing in the sky feels appropriately auspicious.
Panda kite: Adorable and very Beijing!
Hawk kite: The larger, more dramatic kites are impressive—experienced flyers control them with practiced ease.
Aiwan Pavilion (爱晚亭): Crossing the bridge leads to the Tao Ran Jia Jing (陶然佳境) scenic area. This is a replica of the famous Aiwan Pavilion (爱晚亭) on Yuelu Mountain in Changsha, Hunan Province. Originally built in 1792 by Luo Dian, the academy president of Yuelu Academy, it was later renamed by Du Mu based on his famous poem about autumn scenery. The pavilion was rebuilt in 1952 by Hunan University, and Chairman Mao personally wrote the pavilion's plaque. Taoran Pavilion Park recreated this gem in 1986.
Xiehu Qiao (榭湖桥): At the bridge's two ends stand the "Jia Jing" and "Taoran" archways. These wooden structures originally stood on East Chang'an Street in central Beijing—three bays, four columns, three stories. Each pillar is a "chong tian zhu" (冲天堂柱, sky-piercing column), supported by additional columns on each side. Originally engraved with "Chang'an Street" plaques, they were saved from demolition in the 1950s when Premier Zhou Enlai specifically instructed their relocation here. During the Cultural Revolution they were destroyed but later restored, though the plaques were changed from "Chang'an Street" to "Jia Jing" and "Taoran."
Foreigner tip: This bit of architectural history is fascinating—the bridges literally carry a piece of old Beijing with them, transplanted here for preservation.
Gao Junyu and Shi Pingmei Memorial: On the Lake Island, you'll find a statue of revolutionary hero Gao Junyu and his lover Shi Pingmei. Their love story is legendary—often called the "Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai" of the Republican era. Their graves are also located here, known as the "Gao-Shi Tomb" (高石之墓).
Feng Yu Tong Zhou Pavilion (风雨同舟亭): This replica of Anhui's Shadi Pavilion (沙堤亭) carries a powerful story. In 1991, Anhui Province experienced catastrophic flooding. To thank the nation for its support, a replica was built here and named "Wind and Rain Same Boat Pavilion" (风雨同舟亭)—a tribute to the spirit of "when one place has trouble, help comes from all directions." The original Shadi Pavilion was built during Kangxi's reign; its unique three-story design with an open center and hovering corridors, eight corners with wind bells, creates gentle music in the breeze. From any angle, each side is octagonal—earning it the nickname "Eight-Corner Pavilion."
Cibei Temple (慈悲庵): Located on the southwest corner of Lake Island, this Yuan Dynasty temple (over 700 years old) faces east. The architecture is carefully arranged, ornate yet dignified. The temple's three open halls on the west side house Taoran Pavilion itself—built in 1695 by Jiang Zaochang, a Ministry of Works official, who named it after Bai Juyi's poetic line about drinking wine together in joy.
The temple covers 2,700 square meters with over 800 square meters of building space. Main structures include the mountain gate, Guanyin Hall, Zhunji Hall, Wenchang Pavilion, Taoran Pavilion, and various side halls.
Cibei Temple east side from the elevated platform: The temple sits on a slight elevation, giving it prominence above the lake.
Old locust tree before Cibei Temple's mountain gate: This ancient tree guards the temple entrance, its gnarled branches telling stories of centuries past.
Historical photo: Over a hundred years ago, a young Mao Zedong (fourth from left) stood before this very locust tree with his companions, photographed in front of Cibei Temple's ancient gate.
Reality check: This temple holds genuine historical significance—Mao Zedong really did visit here in 1918-1920 during his early revolutionary activities. The temple became a meeting place for early Communist Party members.
Cibei Temple mountain gate: The entrance to this ancient temple, still well-preserved after 700+ years.
Inside the mountain gate: The temple compound reveals itself as you enter—a peaceful retreat from the modern city outside.
Zhunji Hall (准提宝殿): On the south side of the mountain gate, this hall faces north, opposite Guanyin Hall. "Zhunji" is a Sanskrit term meaning purity. The hall originally housed three bodhisattvas including Zhunji. The couplet reads: "Buddhist rain and compassionate clouds bless all living beings; golden wheels and precious canopies illuminate the two precepts forever." Now it houses an exhibition on early revolutionary activities.
Guanyin Hall (观音殿): On the north side of the mountain gate, this is Cibei Temple's main hall. In 1704 (Kangxi's 43rd year), the hall's plaque read "Da Zizai" (Great Freedom). In 1848, it was changed to "Zizai Ke Guan" (Freedom to Observe).
Historical inscription: "Rebuilding Black Kiln Factory Cibei Temple Monument" from 1897 (光绪二十三年).
Wenchang Pavilion (文昌阁): Facing south, this pavilion is 3 bays wide (~8.1m), 1 bay deep (~4.4m), and about 10m tall, covering 83.28 square meters. A small square pavilion sits in front of it.
Taoran Pavilion east side: The plaque "Taoran Pavilion" (陶然亭) was written by Qi Baishi, the legendary artist. The couplet on the east side: Upper line: "Smoke fills the ancient temple, no one visits" (烟藏古寺无人到); Lower line: "A bed leans in the deep hall, the moon comes" (榻倚深堂有月来). Written by翁同龢, Emperor Guangxu's teacher.
Inside Taoran Pavilion: The plaque "Taoran" was written by Jiang Zaochang, the pavilion's founder. The couplet: Upper: "It seems Lord Tao opens the three paths" (似闻陶令开三径); Lower: "Coming to share a niche with Amitabha" (来与弥陀共一龛). Written by Lin Zexu, the famous Qing Dynasty official who led the opium prohibition.
Stone inscription inside Taoran Pavilion's south wall: Qi Baishi's poem "Xijiangyue, Returning to Taoran Pavilion to View Western Mountains" (西江月·重上陶然亭望西山).
Taoran Pavilion west side: The plaque "Taoran Pavilion" was written by Guo Moruo. The couplet: Upper: "Smoke envelops the ancient temple, no one visits" (烟笼古寺无人到); Lower: "Trees lean against the deep hall, the moon comes" (树倚深堂有月来). Written by翁方纲.
Cibei Temple Taoran Pavilion courtyard: The peaceful grounds where Taoran Pavilion sits within Cibei Temple.
Cibei Temple courtyard: A moment of tranquility in this historic space.
Cibei Temple courtyard: The careful garden design rewards close inspection.
Cebein Temple courtyard: Even in winter, the architecture provides visual interest.
Lake surface outside Cibei Temple: A thin layer of ice has formed on the lake—winter has truly arrived. This transforms the lake activities: in summer, you can boat; in winter, it's an ice skating and snow-sliding arena.
Crossing Yun An Bridge (云庵桥), I entered the China Famous Pavilion Garden (华夏名亭园) scenic area.
China Famous Pavilion Garden (华夏名亭园)
China Famous Pavilion Garden map: This is one of the park's unique features—replicas of famous pavilions from across China, each with its own story.
China Famous Pavilion Garden East Gate: The plaque "华夏名亭园" was written by Qi Gong. Gate hours: 06:00-21:00.
Corridor to Yun Hui Lou (通向云绘楼的回廊): Connecting walkways link the various pavilions.
Corridor to Qingyin Ge (通向清音阁的回廊): More covered walkways invite exploration.
Yun Hui Lou · Qingyin Ge (云绘楼·清音阁): Originally built during the Qianlong Emperor's reign, this structure stood on the eastern bank of South Lake in Zhonghai (one of the three lakes in the Western Gardens). It served as the Qing emperors' leisure spot for enjoying music and scenery. In 1954, noted architect Liang Sicheng proposed relocating it, and Premier Zhou Enlai approved. The first director of the New China's Cultural Relics Bureau, Zheng Zhenduo, called it "a pioneering achievement in ancient building relocation." In 2014, the park undertook conservation repairs, and in 2015, referencing Qing Dynasty palace display archives, the interior was restored to its historical appearance.
Du Xing Pavilion (独醒亭): Located on Yuzi Mountain (玉笥山) in Miluo County, Hunan Province, this is a subsidiary pavilion of Quzi Temple (屈子祠). Quzi refers to Qu Yuan, the great patriotic poet of the Warring States period. He rose to the position of Sanlv Dafu (三闾大夫, Minister of the Royal Clan) but was exiled after political intrigue. He composed famous works including "Li Sao" (离骚), and later drowned himself in the Miluo River. Legend says that during his exile, Qu Yuan often discussed matters with fishermen in a boat pavilion by the river. Later generations, to commemorate him, renamed the boat pavilion "Du Xing Pavilion" (独醒亭), meaning "the only one who stays sober"—from the line "Though all the world is muddy, I remain clean; though all men are drunk, I alone am sober" in Chu Ci's "Yu Fu" (渔父). Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1987. The pavilion is hexagonal with red pillars, green tiles, and vibrant paintings. Below the eaves hang plaques reading "Du Xing Pavilion" written by Mao Dun and Zhao Puchu.
Lan Ting (兰亭): One of Jiangnan's famous gardens, located at the foot of Lan Zhu Mountain (兰渚山) southwest of Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province. According to "Yue Jue Shu" (越绝书), King Goujian of Yue cultivated orchids here—hence the name. In 353 AD, the famous calligrapher Wang Xizhi held the famous "Orchid Pavilion Gathering" (修禊) here with 41 others including Xie An and Sun Chuo on the third day of the third lunar month. They floated wine cups on a winding stream and composed poems. Afterward, Wang Xizhi wrote the world-famous "Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Collection" (兰亭集序). Since then, Lan Ting has become sacred ground in Chinese calligraphy history. Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1985. The characters "Lan Ting" on the monument were written by Emperor Kangxi. The monument was broken during the Cultural Revolution but has been repaired. This smaller pavilion is commonly called "Little Lan Ting."
Squirrels near Lan Ting: These little creatures add life to the garden—evidence of the park's ecological diversity.
E Chi Bei Ting (鹅池碑亭): One of Lan Ting's garden buildings. Because Wang Xizhi loved geese, he had this goose pond dug. The characters "E Chi" (鹅池) on the pavilion are traditionally attributed to Wang Xizhi and his son Wang Xianzhi (known as the "Little Sage"). Wang Xizhi is revered as the "Sage of Calligraphy," while his son is called the "Little Sage." Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1986.
Shao Ling Cao Tang Bei Ting (少陵草堂碑亭): Du Fu's Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂) on the banks of Huanhua Stream in Chengdu's western suburbs is where the great Tang Dynasty realist poet Du Fu lived during his exile from the An Lushi Rebellion in 759 AD. His famous poem "Autumn Wind Blows the Thatched Roof" (秋风为茅屋所破歌) was written here. In 1734, during Yongzheng's reign, a monument pavilion called Shao Ling (杜甫's nickname) was built on the original site, becoming a famous structure of Du Fu's cottage. The four large characters on the monument were written by Yun Li, the 17th son of Emperor Kangxi. Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1985.
Er Quan Ting (二泉亭): Located in Xihui Park (锡惠公园) in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province. The Two Springs (二泉) were dug in 779 AD during the Tang Dynasty, divided into upper, middle, and lower pools. The water is called "Long Jin Chi Tuo" (龙津螭唾), sweet and suitable for tea. Legendary tea expert Lu Yu rated it as "second in the world," and Su Dongpo also tasted it, leaving the verse "Carrying the moon from heaven to try the second spring on earth." During Emperor Huizong's reign, the water was designated as a tribute for the imperial family. When Emperor Gaozong (Zhao Gou) crossed south, he drank here and built a pavilion and pool, naming it "Er Quan Ting" (Two Springs Pavilion) with the plaque "Source of Living Water" (源头活水). Both Emperors Kangxi and Qianlong visited six times during their southern tours and composed poems. The famous blind musician Ah Bing created the piece "Er Quan Yin Yue" (Moon Reflected on the Two Springs), known worldwide. The pavilion is delicately designed with dragon ornaments on top. Inside is a "World's Second Best Spring" (天下第二泉) stone tablet written by Yuan Dynasty calligrapher Zhao Mengtao, and a dragon head sculpture on the lower pool wall, believed to be a Ming Dynasty relic. Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1987.
Jin Yue Ting (浸月亭): Situated in the middle of Tangxiang Lake (甘棠湖) in Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, the original site was reportedly the general's platform of Zhou Yu, the famous Eastern Wu commander. During 815-818 AD, the famous poet Bai Juyi (then demoted to Jiujiang Sima) built this pavilion. Later generations named it "Jin Yue Ting" (Moon Submerged in the River) based on Bai Juyi's line "When we part, the vast river is shrouded in moon glow" from his "Pipa Xing" (琵琶行). The pavilion was rebuilt in the late Qing by monk Gu Huai. Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1988.
Cang Lang Ting (沧浪亭): The oldest famous garden in Suzhou. In 1044 AD, during the Song Dynasty, poet Su Shunqing built Cang Lang Ting by the water. During Kangxi's reign, it was rebuilt and the pavilion moved to the hill within the garden. The name comes from Chu Ci's "Yu Fu": "When the Canglang's water is clear, I can wash my tassels; when it's muddy, I can wash my feet." Su called himself "Old Man of Canglang Ting" and wrote "Cang Lang Records." The pavilion is simply constructed with a清代 famous scholar Yu Yue's inscription "Cang Lang Ting" and the couplet "Clear moon and breeze have no price; nearby mountains and distant waters have feelings"—the upper line from Ouyang Xiu and the lower from Su Shunqing. Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1986.
Zui Weng Ting (醉翁亭): Located on Langya Mountain (琅琊山) in Chuzhou, Anhui Province. In 1045 AD, after Ouyang Xiu was demoted to prefect of Chuzhou, the monk Zhixian specially built this pavilion for him. Ouyang Xiu often came to drink with guests and, since "a few drinks would make him drunk," he called himself "Drunken Old Man" (醉翁) and named the pavilion accordingly. He also wrote the famous "Record of Drunken Old Man's Pavilion" (醉翁亭记), later inscribed on a stone tablet by Su Shi—known as the "double masterpiece." The pavilion architecture is elegant, with large eaves and thin columns, appearing to spread its wings and fly. Beside the pavilion is the seal-script "Drunken Old Man's Pavilion" and a massive horizontal stone. To the west is "Niang Spring" (酿泉). Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1986.
Zhe Xian Ting (谪仙亭): The main scenic feature of the Li Bai (the "Banished Immortal") area, designed as a half-wall pavilion with upturned eaves and a gourd-shaped top. Inside are poems about Li Bai written by Qiu Rui and Yang Rong. Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1995.
Chui Tai (吹台): Located at Slender West Lake (瘦西湖) in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. According to "Song Shu," Xu Zhanzhi built four garden structures: Wind Pavilion, Moon Pavilion, Music Terrace, and Qin Terrace. Music Terrace is also called "Fishing Terrace" because Emperor Qianlong once fished here. Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica on West Lake in 1986. The three circular openings of this Music Terrace face Yun Hui Lou to the south, Lake Island Pavilion to the north, and Drunken Old Man's Pavilion to the west—creating framed views like landscape paintings from each angle.
Ban Po Ting (百坡亭): Located in San Su Park (三苏公园) in Sichuan Province, this bridge pavilion commemorates the Song Dynasty literary giant Su Dongpo. When Su Dongpo served as magistrate of Yingzhou (now Fuyang, Anhui), he wrote the poem "Floating on the Ying": "I love to view long stretches, the Ying brings strange joy..." During the Southern Song's Jiading period (1214), the prefect of Meizhou (Wei Liao Weng) built Ban Po Ting based on Su Dongpo's verses in the lake of the city. Though the original lake and pavilion no longer exist, Ban Po Ting was rebuilt in 1928 on the Ruiyang Pool in Meishan Sansu Temple. Taoran Pavilion Park built its replica in 1989.
Ancient poetry carved on rocks: Throughout the park, you'll find ancient poems carved on strange rock formations—a reminder that this is a place of literary heritage.
Doesn't it look like Easter Island's moai? This rock formation is eerily similar to the famous Easter Island stone heads—a fun surprise for observant visitors.
Bai Juyi's "Pipa Xing" inscription: Carved on a rock shaped like a pipa (Chinese lute), this references Bai Juyi's famous poem about a boatwoman's story.
Replicated Lake Center Pavilion from Hangzhou's West Lake: A miniature of the famous octagonal pavilion on Lake Hu Xin in Hangzhou.
Yao Tai (窑台亭): This structure commemorates the area's history—Xicheng District was once famous for its ceramic kilns.
"Yao Tai" plaque: Written by Huang Miaozi, a renowned Chinese painter and calligrapher.
Yao Tai Tea House: The Yao Tai courtyard houses a tea house where visitors can enjoy tea—a perfect spot to rest and appreciate the garden.
Yao Tai Tea House entrance: Traditional architecture invites you in for a cup of tea.
Paintings on the corridor ceilings: Colorful traditional paintings decorate the corridors—a feast for the eyes.
Kiln relics excavated at Yao Tai: Archaeological finds show this area's long history of ceramic production.
Yao Tai main building: The central structure of this historical area.
Family Fun: Children's Playground
Beyond the historical pavilions, Taoran Pavilion Park has plenty to offer families. The children's playground area has rides and attractions suitable for all ages.
Toy store in the children's area: Small shops sell toys and snacks—a hit with kids.
Ticket prices at the entrance: Very affordable—most rides cost just a few RMB.
Pirate ship ride: A classic amusement park favorite.
Luxury flying chairs: A gentler thrill ride.
Kangaroo jump: Kids love this bouncy ride.
逍遥水母 (Free-floating jellyfish): A whimsical ride that spins and floats like a jellyfish in the sea.
The children's area also has two FREE stone slides: "Big Snow Mountain" (大雪山) and "Little Snow Mountain" (小雪山). Many local parents bring their kids here, and adults often ride too—relishing the chance to relive childhood sensations.
Big Snow Mountain (大雪山): The larger stone slide.
Little Snow Mountain (小雪山): The smaller version—perfect for younger children.
Educational Exhibits
The park also features science education pavilions—great for families with curious kids.
Science education cottage: Small but informative exhibits.
Inside the science cottage - Six plant organs: Educational displays about plant biology.
Insect specimen display: Preserved specimens for nature enthusiasts.
Cartoon lawn installations: Fun photo opportunities scattered around the park's lawns.
"Watch" (守望): A pair of owl sculptures—one large, one small—common nocturnal birds in parks. The piece expresses the beautiful idea of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature through mutual observation.
Final Thoughts
Taoran Pavilion Park (陶然亭公园) is a perfect example of Beijing's hidden gems—places that locals love but tourists often overlook. At just 2 RMB for entry, it's an incredible value. Here's what makes it special:
Historical significance: One of China's "four famous pavilions" with 330+ years of history. The park preserves genuine revolutionary history (Mao Zedong visited!) and ancient temple architecture.
Unique features: The China Famous Pavilion Garden (华夏名亭园) is a museum of Chinese pavilion architecture—replicas of famous pavilions from across the country, each with its own story.
Four seasons appeal: Summer offers boat rides; winter transforms the lake into an ice/snow playground. Spring and fall bring beautiful scenery.
Local flavor: This is where Beijingers come to exercise, fly kites, and enjoy outdoor life. Watching locals go about their routines is part of the experience.
Family-friendly: Affordable rides, free stone slides, and educational exhibits make it great for kids.
Foreigner tip: The biggest challenge is the limited English. Download offline maps before arriving, or show the Chinese name 陶然亭公园 to taxi drivers. The metro station (Line 4, Taoran Ting station) is your friend.
Is it worth visiting? Absolutely—for history lovers, garden enthusiasts, families, or anyone seeking an authentic local Beijing experience away from the tourist throngs. At 2 RMB (~$0.28), even if it's not your favorite attraction, you really can't go wrong.