...follows the trodden path? today we've decided to go to Beihai Park, one of the more well known parks frequented by tourists(map).
i've been browsing the net and found a lot of articles bout the park, but none gives a low down on what to expect. so i've decided from now on everytime we visit one of those "tourist attractions" i would write a no nonsense brief bout it.
antons hitchikers guide to beihai park
there are two main areas to see, first is the white milk bottle on top of the hill with its group of temples, the other is tuck on the northwest corner of the park where the pavilions and botanical gardens are. an average guy would take bout 3-4 hours to go through these places - taking pictures and enjoying the scenery. start at the park main entrance down south (pay 10rmb-small map of park at back of ticket FYI) once inside cross the bridge, unless you wanna see the small temples dont get suckered into paying another 10 rmb to see them - there is no way to the summit from the temples. go around back you'll see several winding pathways leading to the top. at the top if you wanna see the milk bottle details and small altar up close shell out 10rmb - otherwise just walk around to see the best vantage points for taking pictures. take a deep breath and rest afterwards go down the way you came and cross the bridge at the back of the island (back not front where you started)-this is the park's east entrance. follow the walkway till you reach the northwest portion of the park-here you'll find the ceramic wall with dragons, the pavillions, botanical gardens and such. spent as much time as you like, by now your probably hungry double back the walkway and go out the park's north entrance (look at your map you passby this small entrance). you'll see "lotus lane" archway on the other side of the road-this is hou hai, the chic and hip bar/restautarant area in beijing these days. walk around to find the restaurant that suites you and relax your sore legs - one last note, just keep saying "bu yao" to the peddlers offering ricksaw rides around the hutongs less you wanna take one.
wanna see beihai park without me spoiling the view? click here.
     
     
   
Tags: beihai park, beijing.
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