Yuetan Park
What are the most recommended things to do in Yuetan Park?
Yuetan Park is an excellent place for a peaceful walk and to enjoy the beauty of nature within the city. You can visit the historical Yuetan Temple located within the park, take a boat ride on the lake, or simply relax by the water. There are also many traditional Chinese garden elements, such as pavilions, bridges, and well-maintained flowerbeds. It's a great place for photography and leisure activities, such as tai chi or casual strolls.
Introducing Yuetan Park
Yuetan Park is located west of Nanlishi Road in Xicheng District, Beijing. Originally known as the "Evening Moon Altar," Yuetan was where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties worshipped the Moon God. It is one of Beijing's famous Five Altars and Eight Temples. Every year at the Autumnal Equinox, at the hour of Hai, the emperors would offer sacrifices to the Night-Bright God (the Moon) here, along with the Twenty-Eight Mansions, the Five Stars of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water, and the celestial bodies. Yuetan Park was designated as Yuetan Park in 1955 and is now divided into South Park and North Park.
The park boasts numerous ornamental trees, including pines, cypresses, safflowers, pomegranates, and osmanthus. It boasts ancient buildings such as the Bell Tower, Heavenly Gate, Jufu Hall, the Divine Kitchen, and the Divine Storehouse, as well as scenic spots such as the Moon Altar's Toad Palace, the Double-Circular Moon-Reflecting Pond, Guanghan Bridge, the Chang'e Flying to the Moon sculpture, Tianxiang Courtyard, the Moon-Grabbing Pavilion, the Shuangyue Pavilion, and the Yuegui Pavilion. The North Garden has been restored to its ancient altar charm, embodying traditional cultural characteristics. While maintaining the altar's temple-like character, the South Garden has been transformed into a park embodying the classical Chinese landscape style, while also adding modern leisure facilities.
Climate and best time to travel
North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Summer and autumn are the best time to visit
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
Tickets
1 yuan
Attraction opening hours
6:00-21:00
Most Popular FAQs for Yuetan Park
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Yuetan Park, established in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), is one of Beijing's historical parks. It was originally a royal garden and has since been open to the public. The park is significant for its beautiful traditional Chinese landscaping and for housing the Yuetan Temple, which holds historical and cultural importance in Beijing. The park has been a place of spiritual and recreational retreat for centuries.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Yuetan Park is located in the Xicheng District of Beijing. The nearest metro station is Xidan (Line 1), from which it is a short walk to the park. You can also take a taxi or bus to the park from various locations in central Beijing. It is easily accessible from other major landmarks like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
Yuetan Park is typically open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the park is less crowded. It’s also a great time for photography and relaxation in the park’s serene environment.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
The entrance fee for Yuetan Park is usually minimal, typically around 2 to 5 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the park’s entrance. There are no major online ticketing options for this park, as it is primarily a public park with a low-cost entry.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Yuetan Park. It is a public park with low entry fees, and you can purchase tickets directly at the entrance on the day of your visit.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
You can explore Yuetan Park in about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend relaxing, taking photos, or exploring the historical areas like the temple and the lake. If you prefer to linger, the park offers ample space to spend more time in its peaceful environment.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
Key highlights include the beautiful Yuetan Temple, the serene lake, the traditional pavilions, and the well-maintained gardens. The temple itself is significant in Beijing’s Buddhist history, and the lake provides a relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Yuetan Park does not typically offer formal guided tours or audio guides, but you can hire private guides if you wish to learn more about the park's history and the Yuetan Temple. Most local guides speak Mandarin, but some may offer services in English for an extra charge.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
The best photography spots in Yuetan Park include the traditional Chinese pavilions, the lake with its peaceful reflections, and the ancient trees. The Yuetan Temple is also a beautiful subject for photography, particularly its intricate architecture and serene surroundings.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start your visit by walking around the lake, which offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Next, explore the Yuetan Temple, followed by a stroll through the traditional garden areas. Finish by relaxing in one of the pavilions or tea houses if available.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
While Yuetan Park is open during the evening, there are no special light shows or night tours available. The park is a quieter place for evening walks, with a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for reflection or casual strolling under the stars.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Yuetan Park is generally not very crowded, but weekends and public holidays can see higher traffic. The least crowded times are in the early mornings and late afternoons, particularly on weekdays.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Yuetan Park has public toilets and several rest areas for visitors to relax. There are no major food shops inside the park, but there are small snack stands. For a more substantial meal, you can find restaurants outside the park.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Yuetan Park is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though the park’s paths may be uneven in some areas. It’s generally an easy place to navigate, but visitors with mobility impairments may encounter some challenges with steps or uneven surfaces near the lake.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is accepted in the park, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. It’s advisable to carry cash just in case, especially if you're purchasing from local snack stalls or small shops.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
There are several local restaurants and cafes around the park, offering Beijing-style cuisine such as Peking duck, noodles, and dumplings. A few casual tea houses near the park offer light refreshments and a quiet atmosphere for a break.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian food options are available in some of the local restaurants near the park. Halal food options are limited, but there are a few restaurants in Beijing that serve halal dishes, which can be accessed by a short taxi ride from Yuetan Park.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
Nearby accommodations include the Beijing Xidan Hotel and the Novotel Beijing Peace Hotel, both of which are located a short taxi ride from Yuetan Park. There are also budget options available closer to the park.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
Yuetan Park is close to many of Beijing’s major attractions, including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Jingshan Park. You can easily combine a visit to Yuetan Park with these sites for a full day of sightseeing.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
There are no souvenir shops inside the park itself, but there are plenty of shops around the park where you can buy traditional Chinese handicrafts, tea sets, and souvenirs like postcards and silk items.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
After visiting Yuetan Park, you can continue your trip by taxi or metro. The Xidan metro station is nearby, providing easy access to other parts of Beijing, including Wangfujing for shopping and the Forbidden City for more sightseeing.
