Can I really buy tickets on-site with a passport?

Yes. Despite conflicting official info, the ticket window at the South Gate regularly sells tickets to foreign tourists who present their original passports.

Is the climb difficult?

The hill is only 45 meters high. Most visitors reach the top pavilion in about 10-15 minutes via well-maintained stone stairs.

Beijing · Xicheng

Jingshan Park

Verified 2026-05-08 · High confidence

Why this stop matters

Spanning 23 hectares, Jingshan Park is a former imperial garden located on an artificial hill created from the earth excavated for the Forbidden City's moat. As the geographic center of historical Beijing, its central peak, Wanchun Pavilion, offers a legendary 360-degree panoramic view of the palace's golden roofs and the city's ancient central axis.

AliasesJingshan Park景山公园景山公園

Jingshan Park Opening Hours

Peak Season (Apr 1 - Oct 31):06:00 — 21:00 (Last entry: 20:30)
Off Season (Nov 1 - Mar 31):06:30 — 20:00 (Last entry: 19:30)
Holiday notes: Open year-round. Expect extreme crowds during Spring Festival and National Day holidays.

Operational notes

• The hike to the central Wanchun Pavilion takes about 10-15 minutes.
• Security checkpoints are standard; avoid bringing prohibited items (knives, drones).
• Beijing Park Pass (Annual) is accepted here.

Jingshan Park Booking & Reservation

Reservation required:Yes
Reservation lead time: 1 days

Officially requires phone reservation at +86 010-66055431 one day in advance, but most foreigners successfully purchase tickets on-site with their original passport.

Official Website

Jingshan Park Tickets & Prices

General Admission (Standard): CNY 2
Cultural Season (Peak Events): CNY 10
Same listed price for foreign visitors:Yes

Cash, Alipay, and WeChat Pay accepted at the gate. Very inexpensive (2-10 CNY).

Getting to Jingshan Park

South Gate (Closest to Forbidden City)Primary entry

Walking

Directly across the road from the Forbidden City North Gate exit.

Bus

Gugong (Forbidden City) Station

101, 103, 109, 124, 58

East Gate

Bus

Jingshan East Gate Station

111, 124, 58

Metro Line 8

National Art Museum • Exit A • 15 min walk

A bit of a walk; taking a bus from the station is recommended.

Taxi reference
Recommended to use 'DiDi' app for real-time pricing from your location

Best Time to Visit Jingshan Park

Sunset is the 'Golden Hour' for photographers to capture the sun dipping behind the palace. Alternatively, arrive at 6:30 AM to see locals practicing Tai Chi and park singing—a authentic slice of Beijing life.

Insider Tips

The Emperor's Sunset

The most iconic photo is taken from Wanchun Pavilion looking South. Arrive at least 45 minutes before sunset to secure a spot at the railing, as it gets extremely crowded with enthusiasts.

Foreign visitor tips

Passport needed at entry

Yes

Survival Tips

For many, Jingshan is the highlight of Beijing. It's affordable, requires minimal planning compared to its famous neighbor, and offers a 'wow' moment when the Forbidden City reveals itself from above. The hike is short (under 15 minutes) but rewarding. Emergency: Area Rescue: +86 010-66055431.

Ticketing Tips

Official Loophole: While official notices say you must call to book, you can almost always just walk up to the ticket window with your passport. This is the most consistent 'insider knowledge' from recent travelers.
The View: If you couldn't get Forbidden City tickets, Jingshan is your best alternative. The hilltop view gives you a much better sense of the palace's symmetrical layout than being inside.
Post-Palace Flow: Most visitors finish the Forbidden City at the North Gate (Shenwumen). Do not take a taxi immediately; simply cross the street to Jingshan for the perfect ending to your tour.

Photo rules

Handheld photography is welcome. Professional tripods may be restricted on the narrow peak pavilions during busy sunset hours.