Beihai Park, which literally means Northen Sea, is a former imperial park. It is one of the largest parks in China, covering 171 acres.

In the centre of the lake, which covers more than half of the park, is an island called Jade Flower Island. The white pagoda on the island was built for the 5th Dalai Lama in 1651 and is made entirely of white stone.

The park was opened to the public in 1925 and to this day remains a favourite of many people wanting to relax and enjoy the scenary.

How to get there:

Underground:

• Take Underground Line 4 and get off at Ping'anli Station. Exit Southeast exit and walk along Dianmen Xi Dajie to the east for 20 minutes to the north gate.

Opening Times:

April-October:

•  6:30am to 9:00pm (ticket office closed at 8:30pm)

November - March

• 6:30am to 8:00pm (ticket office closed at 7:30pm)

Admission Cost: