Park Life: Everything You Need to Know About Liuyin Park

Life's a park! We take a look at Beijing's most beloved parks, dig into what makes each of them special, and why they're worth your time to explore.

The practical stuff

Name: Liuyin Park (柳荫公园 Liǔyīn Gōngyuán)
Address: Jiangzhaikou, Andingmenwai, Dongcheng District 东城区安定门外蒋宅口
Hours: Daily, 6am-8.30pm (winter), 6am-9pm (summer)
Contact: 8411 3699
Price: Free
Amenities: Lake, tea house, restrooms, paddle boats, kids area
Known for: Its gorgeous landscaping and willows

A brief history

Formerly known as 久大湖 Jiǔdàhú, or Big Old Lake, Liuyin Park is centuries old, with origins dating back to the ancient Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). In fact, legend has it that during its construction, imperial rulers stowed some of their most wondrous treasures here, which led to a series of excavations in later years that, unfortunately, didn't bear any treasure. These days, we wouldn't recommend trying to dig anything up, in light of previous attempts and in order to not piss anyone off.

Liuyin is a traditional Chinese park through and through, boasting four landscaping styles spread across its 17 hectares that are meant to evoke the four seasons. Likewise, its current name can be translated to Willow Shade Park, as the area is home to more than 10 varieties of its namesake tree.

Despite undergoing renovations around 2016, the park retained much of its rustic charm and is still dotted with northern folk style structures and farmhouses, as well as bridges, pavilions, flowers, fruit trees, bamboo groves, lotus ponds, and walkways, all of which surround the tranquil lake.   

What you can do there

While there is a kids’ area with electric cars, a trampoline, bumper cars, and paddle boats, Liuyin’s big draw is simply its beauty. A roughly two-kilometer loop will take visitors through the entirety of the park, but there are tons of nooks and enclaves to stop in along the way. What’s more, there’s even a pleasant lakeside tea house if you’re looking to relax mid-stroll, though we would suggest bringing your own nibbles and finding a secluded little spot to hide away.

What makes this park different from others?

Considerably fewer people, and the only park in central downtown Beijing to reflect pastoral living. Honestly, Liuyin Park has all the beauty and charm of your Beihais, Summer Palaces, and Yuyuantans with a fraction of the crowds. Aside from that, however, this park offers one of those unique Beijing experiences that feels like stepping back in time. It’s the perfect place to get lost in natural reverie, loafing like the emperors of yore and whiling away a day in regal fashion. If you want all sorts of bells and whistles, keep looking. But if you want an idyllic day immersed in a centuries-old imperial hang out, then Liuyin’s got what you need.

READ: Four Spots to Enjoy Autumn Scenery Close to the City Center

Images: Drew Pittock