Bei Wu Park: Free Admission! Cycling, Fishing, and Kid-Friendly Fun, a Hidden Gem in West Beijing

### **Bei Wu Park Beijing Travel Guide: A Perfect Blend of Royal Rice Paddies and Modern Oasis** **I. Scenic Spot Overview** Bei Wu Park, located in Haidian District, Beijing, adjacent to the Summer Palace and Jade Spring Hill, is a free park that integrates the history of royal rice paddies with modern recreational landscapes. As one of the outer gardens of the "Three Hills and Five Gardens," it was once a royal tribute rice planting area during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, it retains characteristic landscapes such as West Beijing rice paddies, ancient temples, and lakes, and is known as a "pastoral poem in the city." --- **II. Best Time to Visit** - **Spring (April-May):** Rape flowers are in full bloom, and the park is lush and green, perfect for taking photos. - **Summer (June-August):** The rice paddies are emerald green, and in mid-to-late August, the rice ears emerge, creating stunning idyllic scenery. - **Autumn (September-November):** The West Beijing rice turns golden, and the *Muhlenbergia capillaris* resembles pink clouds, painting a picturesque autumn scene. - **Winter (December-February):** The snow scenery is serene, but some landscapes wither, suitable for visitors who prefer tranquility. --- **III. Must-See Attractions** 1. **West Beijing Rice Paddies** - The only open rice paddy within the Beijing urban area, once the production site of Emperor Qianlong's "tribute rice," it offers excellent photo opportunities with its green in spring and gold in autumn. 2. **Eight Scenic Spots** - **Gao Hu Ta Ying (Tower Shadow on High Lake):** Enjoy a distant view of the Jade Peak Pagoda on Jade Spring Hill, with the lake and mountain scenery complementing each other. - **Jie Tian Geng Zhi (Imperial Farming and Weaving):** Recreates ancient farming culture, featuring ox sculptures and rice paddy landscapes. - **Qu Lang Teng Ying (Vine Shadows on the Winding Corridor):** An ancient-style long corridor, perfect for leisurely strolls. 3. **Minister's Forest** - Central leaders once planted trees here, creating a tranquil environment suitable for walks. 4. **Gao Shui Lake & Plank Road** - The lake water is crystal clear and suitable for fishing. The plank road is the best location for photographing the Jade Peak Pagoda. --- **IV. Transportation Guide** - **Subway:** Take Subway Line S1 to "Summer Palace West Gate Station," and walk for 5 minutes. - **Bus:** Take Bus No. 469 or 539 to "Bei Wu Cun West Station." - **Car:** Navigate to "Bei Wu Park." Parking is available at the Summer Palace West Gate parking lot. --- **V. Tickets & Opening Hours** - **Tickets:** Free. - **Opening Hours:** Open all day (daytime visits are recommended for better lighting). --- **VI. Tour Suggestions** - **Half-Day Tour:** - Morning: Stroll through the West Beijing rice paddies and capture the reflection of Jade Spring Hill. - Afternoon: Explore the eight scenic spots, relax by the lake, or go fishing. - **Combined Tour:** - Bei Wu Park + Summer Palace/Yudong Park (adjacent, within walking distance). --- **VII. Practical Tips** 1. **Attire:** Sun protection is recommended in spring and summer, while warm clothing is essential in autumn and winter. Light-colored clothing looks better in the rice paddy area. 2. **Photography:** Early morning or dusk offers the best lighting. The Jade Peak Pagoda's reflection, rice paddies, and the plank road are popular photo spots. 3. **Nearby Recommendations:** - **Ying Hu Lou Park:** Monet Garden style, a 15-minute walk away. - **Summer Palace West Gate:** You can visit the imperial gardens along the way. Bei Wu Park, with its unique rice paddy scenery and tranquil environment, has become a hidden gem in Beijing. Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a history buff, or a tourist seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you can find your own moment of peace here!