Jingshan Park, also known as Coal Hill, is the artificial hill directly north of the Forbidden City, built from earth dug out for the palace moat. From the pavilion at its summit you see the whole palace laid out in yellow roofs along the central axis, with the Drum Tower to the north and, on a clear day, the skyscrapers of the modern city beyond. It is the best free-standing viewpoint for understanding how the imperial capital was planned. A guided walking tour that links Jingshan with Beihai Park next door fits two of the city's best imperial garden spaces into a short, unhurried outing. The hill is also tied to the end of the Ming dynasty, since the last Ming emperor died here in 1644, and a guide can tell that story as you climb. It makes a good companion to a Forbidden City visit.
How to visit
Jingshan Park sits directly across the road from the Forbidden City's north gate. The tour is short, usually around two hours, and meets in the area near the park. Confirm the meeting point when booking. The climb is a flight of steps up to the main pavilion and takes a few minutes at a steady pace. Opening times vary by season, so check that you are not arriving close to closing time.
What to expect
After the climb you stand at the top of the central axis, with the roofs of the Forbidden City stretching south towards Tiananmen. The guide explains the geomancy behind the hill, which was meant to protect the palace from evil influence from the north. From Jingshan the tour continues west to Beihai Park, with its lake and white pagoda, where the pace slows to a gentle stroll. Morning light is best for photographs of the palace roofs.
Making the most of it
If you have already booked a Forbidden City entry, exit through the north gate and cross the road into Jingshan so the two flow naturally. The view is excellent at sunrise and at the end of the day, though check that the gates are open. In the colder months wrap up, since the summit is exposed. Families with young children can enjoy the climb as a short, rewarding walk.
Planning notes
The view from the top is the main reason to come, but the details on the way up are worth noticing too. Old pagoda trees and peonies line the paths, and in late April and May the peony garden is a local favourite. The ancient locust tree near the foot of the hill is associated with the death of the last Ming emperor, and guides often tell that story on site.
The central pavilion has the best sweep of the palace roofs, while the eastern and western pavilions give a different angle on the city.
Sunset can be beautiful but the park closes in the evening, so check the times. If you are travelling with older relatives, note that the steps are steady rather than steep, and benches are available. Combining the hill with Beihai Park gives a gentle half day that suits all fitness levels. Bring a camera with a zoom lens if you have one, because the details of the roof ridges and gate towers are best picked out from this height, and a polarising filter helps on hazy days.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walk up Coal Hill for the view over the Forbidden City, continuing to Beihai Park.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon on a clear day.
How long
About two hours.
Tips
Bring water, wear comfortable shoes for the steps and finish your Forbidden City visit at the north gate.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want the classic rooftop view of the palace.
- Families
- A short climb that older children usually enjoy.
- Couples
- A scenic walk with a sunset view.
- Pair with
- The Forbidden City, entered from the south and exited through the north gate.
- Time needed
- Two hours, or half a day with the Forbidden City.
Good questions
Where is Jingshan Park?+
Directly north of the Forbidden City, across the road from its north gate.
Why is the hill there?+
It was built from earth excavated for the palace moat and was meant to protect the palace according to geomantic principles.
How hard is the climb?+
It is a flight of steps that takes a few minutes. Most visitors manage it comfortably at a steady pace.
Is the view worth it?+
Yes, it is the classic view over the Forbidden City's yellow roofs along the central axis.
Can I add the Forbidden City?+
Yes, the two are next to each other, and many visitors end a palace visit with the climb.
