Who says history is boring? Strolling through Beiling Park, I heard the whispered conversations between Emperor Huang Taiji and Lady Hailanzhu

Friends, if you come to Shenyang and ask me where to go besides the Forbidden City, I would tell you without hesitation: Beiling Park (Zhaoling Mausoleum of the Qing Dynasty). This is not only the resting place of Huang Taiji, the founding emperor of the Qing Dynasty, but also the "green lung" of Shenyang. It cleverly balances the solemnity of a royal mausoleum with the lively atmosphere of a city park. Every step reveals a scene, and every corner tells a story. Today, I’m sharing my second visit guide to Beiling Park with you, to help you explore deeply and capture stunning photos! Beiling Park is a World Cultural Heritage site, the tomb of Huang Taiji, the second emperor of the Qing Dynasty, and Empress Xiaoduanwen. It is also the largest and most complete among the three mausoleums outside the Great Wall (Yongling, Fuling, Zhaoling). Two main areas: 1. Beiling Park (outer area): A leisure area for citizens, no or very low entrance fee, with lakes, flowers, and shaded paths. 2. Zhaoling Mausoleum (core mausoleum): Requires a separate ticket, where the historical essence lies. 🚇 Transportation & Tickets (Money-saving and hassle-free tips) Transportation: Metro Line 2, get off at Beiling Park Station, Exit G leads directly to the South Gate, super convenient. Tickets: Park entrance: 5 RMB (sometimes free in winter). Recommended to buy for a relaxed visit to the outer area. Zhaoling Mausoleum core area ticket: 40 RMB (half price for students). Totally worth it! The essence is all inside. Blogger’s suggestion: Buy a 50 RMB combo ticket (includes park + mausoleum + exhibition hall inside the mausoleum), the most convenient and cost-effective. 🗺️ Best Tour Route (No backtracking) Enter from the South Gate → Approach Path & Huabiao Pillars → Stone Statue Spirit Path (prime photo spot!) → Main Red Gate → Stele Pavilion → Long’en Gate → Fangcheng & Long’en Hall → Baocheng (circle around) → Crescent City → Return from the east or west side, enjoy the lakeside scenery → Exit from South or East Gate. 📸 Must-Photograph Spots (100% photo-worthy) To get tons of likes, these spots are a must: 1. Stone Statue Spirit Path (Top highlight): This is the soul of Beiling! Stone camels, horses, and qilins lined up in order, solemn and majestic against the backdrop of ancient pines and cypresses. Shoot from a low angle to frame the stone beasts with the sky, instantly creating a cinematic feel. 2. Long’en Gate City Tower: Climb the city wall of Fangcheng, use the vermilion gate and golden studs as the foreground, and shoot Long’en Hall in the distance for a perfect composition. 3. Corner of Fangcheng: At the four corner towers of Fangcheng, use the depth of the city walls to capture the palace atmosphere. 4. Back view of Baocheng: In front of the dark archway of Baocheng (the tomb mound), shoot a slowly walking back view full of storytelling. 5. Lakeside Reflection: After touring the mausoleum, don’t forget to take peaceful reflection shots by the park’s lake with ancient buildings as the background, combining stillness and movement. 💡 Deep Experience & Hidden Activities Early birds catch the best scenes: Enter before 7 AM, local residents exercise for free. You’ll see the most authentic Shenyang life scenes: Tai Chi, square dancing, diabolo spinning... The blend of everyday life and history makes it a perfect time for cultural photography. Understand the story of the “Stone Statue Spirit Path”: Don’t just take photos, learn about it! The “stone horse” is said to be carved after Huang Taiji’s two favorite warhorses, “Dabai” and “Xiaobai.” Viewing them with emotion, they are no longer cold stone. Find the “Sun and Moon Shining Together”: At the center of the side walls flanking the Main Red Gate, look for the exquisite glazed dragon. Legend says it protects the kingdom forever. Scenery in all seasons: Spring: Peach and pear blossoms bloom, adding softness to the mausoleum. Summer: Ancient pines tower high, a perfect summer retreat. Autumn: Golden ginkgo leaves cover the ground, the most beautiful season at Beiling. Winter: Snow covers glazed tiles and stone beasts, instantly transporting you to Shenyang’s winter in the Qing era. ⚠️ Notes Respect history: The mausoleum is a solemn place. Do not shout or climb on cultural relics in the core area. Dress advice: Wear comfortable shoes! The whole park is very large and takes at least 3-4 hours to explore. About guided tours: It’s recommended to rent an electronic guide at the entrance or watch a documentary in advance. Understanding the history behind will enhance your experience by 200%. The beauty of Beiling lies in its bearing over 300 years of turbulent history while still gently welcoming ordinary people today. Here, you can feel both the weight of history and the warmth of life. I hope this guide helps you better encounter Beiling. If you find it useful, don’t forget to like ❤️, save ⭐️, and feel free to share your beautiful Beiling photos and stories in the comments!