Western Hills National Forest Park

Close to both the Summer Palace and Botanical Gardens is the National Forest Park amongst the Beijing Western Hills, only 17 km away from Beijing City. It extends across the Haidian, Shijingshan and Mentougou Districts. Located in a temperate zone there is an abundance of wildlife with many species of plants, birds, and animals. Situated in the Western Hills are many ancient temples, such as Fuhui Temple and Jingfu Temple. During the Ming Dynasty the hillside was used as a royal burial site that include the tombs of Emperor Jing Tai and Wan Li. 

During each season the Forest Park shows of its various faces of its natural beauty. I was fortunate enough to see the peach and apricot blossoms of spring, but in the autumn there are the red leaves of the trees, and the snow-covered hills in the winter.

In my opinion, apart from the setting amongst the hills, the most striking thing to see at the park is its huge man made waterfall. It is a truly breath taking site and there are indeed many opportunities to capture some wonderful pictures. In front of the waterfall is a large pond which is the home to several black swans. Climb the side of the rock face and get a closer look at the waterfall and smell the fresh air; it almost feels like you are close to the ocean.

Beyond the waterfall you can make your way up the hill and visit the Green Culture Tablet Forest. It contains over 1,000 stone tablets inscribed by celebrities commemorating the achievement of re-foresting. It is a moment for reflection on the hard work that has been taken to create such a beautiful place.

A short distance from the North Gate of the Western Hills Park is the Azure Clouds Diamond Throne Pagoda. It has a raised platform with a central pagoda and stupas that surround it. First built in 1366 and later expanded in the 18th century to include the Hall of Arhats (500 statues representing disciples of Buddha).

It is truly a beautiful tourist destination that combines unique cultural sights with natural scenic beauty. Gaze at its spectacular waterfalls, venture through the winding pathways along the rolling hills, rest at its famous pagoda while taking pictures of its natural beauty; this is not to be missed.