White Robe General: Climb Tuancheng during the Spring Festival

When visiting Beihai Park, I often climb the winding stone steps to visit Tuancheng. My favorite is the two white pines named "White Robe General." The trunks of the white pines are more than 5 meters in circumference, like two mighty generals guarding the front and back of the Chengguang Hall. They were named "White Robe General" by Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty. In spring and summer, the bark of the white pines is shiny, lush, and full of vitality. There are 17 ancient trees over 300 years old in Tuancheng. In addition to the "White Robe General," there are also the "Shady Marquis" oil pine and the "Sea Exploring Marquis" ancient pine planted in the Jin Dynasty. Other main attractions in Tuancheng include the magnificent Chengguang Hall, which houses a white jade Buddha. The ink jade urn in the Jade Urn Pavilion was carved in the Yuan Dynasty (1265 AD), with dragons, sea horses, colorful clouds, and other patterns carved around it. During the Spring Festival, the red lanterns decorating Tuancheng bring a festive atmosphere. Visitors flock to touch the mottled city walls, admire the exquisite ancient buildings, and look up at the tall white pines, marveling at the profound historical and cultural heritage contained in this small garden. Tuancheng is next to the south gate of Beihai Park. It opens at 8 am, and no reservation or ticket is required.