Yuyuantan Park [Beijing]

Yuyuantan Park lies west of Beijing city, neighbouring to Diaoyutai National Guest House, the Central Radio & TV Tower and the Military Museum.

Early in the Jin Dynasty (1115 ~ 1234 AD), a famous touring resort appeared here in the west suburb of Zhongdu (the capital of Jin Dynasty). In Liao and Jin Dynasties, there used to be a rural view of winding rivers and lakes here. And scenic spots of "Yangzunlinquan" (Garden of enjoying high position) and "Diaoyuhequ" (Fishing on the winding river) were established by scholars here. In the 38th year of Qianlong's reign (Qing Dynasty), following a water harnessing project, the Yuyuantan Lakes were dug. And then a lot of birds and fowls gathered here making a natural view here.

In 1960, the Beijing Municipality claimed it to be Yuyuantan Park. After dozens of years' construction, the park has been developed into a munipal park which lies within a city but possess wildess and rural views.

The park covers an area of 140.79ha (79.32ha is earth), 61.47ha of which is water area spacious lakes and luxuriant forset form the richly endowed natural environment of the park. The inverted reflection of the Central Rario & TV Tower on the clear lake and the winding banks form a delightful contrast. The flowering cherries in the spring and the chrysanthemums in the autumn setting off beautifully with verted oines and cypresses, green lawns and ...gant buildings ... of color and attract a lot of visitors all year around.