Although Zhongshan Park is full of history, the real reason to come here is to enjoy this tranquil haven, and to take part in traditional Beijing park life. Once an imperial garden, it is located directly west of Tian'anmen Gate. Zhongshan Park is the perfect place to come after visiting the Forbidden City and Tian'anmen Square.

Zhongshan Park is the site of the former Altar of Land and Harvest. Built in 1421 by Emperor Yongle (Ming Dynasty), emperors of the Ming and Qing Dynasty would visit here twice a year; in spring, to pray for a good harvest, and in autumn to give thanksgiving. Five different colors of earth are still kept at the altar to represent the land throughout China.

After 1911, this imperial garden became a public park. In 1928 it was named Zhongshan Park to honor Sun Yat-sen; better known in China as Sun Zhongshan, who is considered to be the father of modern China. Sun Yat-sen was an important person in the 1911 revolution, which ended imperial rule in China. He then became the first president of the
new republic of China.

For Beijingers, the reason to visit Zhongshan Park is its beauty. Built for the members of the imperial family; beautiful pavilions, quiet walkways, stone archways, and gorgeous gardens are all excellent reasons to visit. There is also a greenhouse which houses flowers all year round. Consider also visiting the celebrated Lai Jin Yu Xuan Restaurant, serving traditional dishes from the famous Chinese novel, A Dream Of Red Mansions. Also in the park is the Forbidden City Concert Hall, which puts on concerts by Western and Chinese orchestras.

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