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Visit the elegant courtyards and gardens, explore the cultural relics and architecture, and learn about the history of the Qing Dynasty. The mansion is known for its beautiful landscaping and the rich heritage of Prince Gong.
Prince Gong's Mansion is the largest and best-preserved existing Qing Dynasty princely palace complex in China. It is located on Qianhai West Street on the west bank of Shichahai in Xicheng District, Beijing. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and a national key cultural relic protection unit.
This magnificent building complex witnessed the historical process of the Qing Dynasty's decline from prosperity, and it is often said that "one Prince Gong Mansion represents half of the history of the Qing Dynasty."
Best season to visit:
In spring, traditional flowers such as crabapple, lilac, and peony bloom in succession in the garden of Prince Gong's Mansion.
Recommended photo spots: Cuijin Garden Lakeside Pavilion and the reflection of spring flowers, and the ancient vines in bloom in front of Duofu Pavilion
In autumn, the ginkgo and maple trees in the Prince Gong Mansion garden change color, presenting a unique landscape of "Golden Autumn Prince Gong Mansion".
Recommended experience: Enjoying tea and the view at the garden teahouse in autumn afternoon
The winter post-snow scenery is considered the best in Beijing, with red walls and white snow creating a unique artistic conception.
In summer, the gardens of Prince Gong's Mansion are covered with dense greenery, where you can experience the traditional "old Beijing summer cool-off" and listen to operas in the Grand Theatre.
Recommended tours:
The main tour routes of Prince Gong's Mansion:
Yigong Gate → Yin'an Hall → Jiale Hall → Duofuxuan → Ledao Hall → Xiyang Gate → Dule Peak → Bat Pond → Anshan Hall → Liubei Pavilion → Dicui Rock (Fu Stele) → Yaoyue Terrace → Grand Theater → Bat Hall → Houzhao Tower → Exit
Recommended play time: half a day
Adult ticket: 40 yuan/person
Student ticket: 20 yuan/person
Senior citizen ticket: 20 yuan/person
Military ticket: 20 yuan/person
Peak Season (April 1st - October 31st)
Opening hours: 8:30-17:00 (last admission at 16:10)
Special note: From July 8th to August 31st, the museum will be open until 17:30 (last admission at 16:10) during the summer vacation.
Off-season (November 1st - March 31st)
Opening hours: 9:00-16:00 (last admission at 15:40)
Prince Gong's Mansion was originally built in 1777 during the Qing Dynasty and later became the residence of Prince Gong, one of the most influential officials in Chinese history. The mansion is an exemplary example of traditional Chinese palace architecture and serves as a reminder of the grandeur of the Qing court.
The mansion is located in the Xicheng District of Beijing, near the famous Shichahai lakes. The nearest metro station is Beihai North (Line 6), and you can also take a bus or taxi from major areas of the city.
Prince Gong's Mansion is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is around ¥40 for general admission. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter at the entrance, and online bookings may be available through official platforms.
Advance booking is not usually required, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and summer) to avoid long lines.
It typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the mansion and its grounds, especially if you want to appreciate the architecture, garden, and historical details.
The key highlights are the main courtyard, the Prince's personal study, the garden areas, and the beautiful halls like the "Hall of the Celebrated" and the "Palace of Joy and Peace."
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English are provided, making it accessible for international visitors. A guided tour offers more in-depth historical context.
The best viewpoints include the garden areas with their scenic ponds and traditional Chinese landscaping. The main hall and courtyards also provide great spots for photography.
Start by entering the main gate, explore the courtyards, visit the Prince’s residence and study, and finish by walking through the beautiful garden. The main route will cover all significant parts of the mansion.
Currently, night visits are not available. However, the mansion sometimes holds special cultural events or exhibitions, especially during Chinese holidays.
The mansion can get busy, particularly on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays, especially during the off-season (autumn and winter).
There are public restrooms available. While there are no large food outlets inside, small shops and snack stalls can be found near the entrance.
Yes, the mansion is wheelchair accessible in most areas. Some parts of the garden may have uneven paths, but generally, it is a family-friendly destination.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are preferred, and credit cards are not commonly accepted at smaller outlets.
While there are no cafes or restaurants directly inside, the nearby Shichahai area has a variety of restaurants and cafes offering both traditional Chinese and international cuisine.
Yes, the Shichahai area offers a variety of restaurants with vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options.
There are several hotels nearby, including options like the Red Wall Garden Hotel and Prince Gong’s Mansion Hotel. The Shichahai area also offers boutique hotels.
Nearby attractions include Shichahai Lakes, Bell and Drum Towers, and the Hutongs in the surrounding area. These can be easily combined for a day trip.
Souvenir shops near the mansion sell traditional Chinese items, including tea sets, silk scarves, and paintings of the mansion’s architecture and the surrounding gardens.
Public transportation, including buses and the metro (Line 6), is readily available. Taxis are also convenient, and you can walk to nearby attractions like the Forbidden City or the Shichahai area.
