Prince Gong’s Mansion, located in Shichahai Area, offers visitors a deep dive into the history and grandeur of the Qing Dynasty. Built during the reign of Emperor Qianlong, the mansion has housed key figures such as the powerful official Heshen, Princess Hexiao, and later Prince Gong. This opulent estate witnessed the rise and fall of the Qing Dynasty, serving as a residence for four generations of royalty. Today, it stands as a 5A-rated tourist attraction, where the splendor of the Qing Empire is preserved in stunning detail. With its extensive grounds divided into two parts—offices and living quarters in the south, and a beautiful garden in the north—the mansion is full of captivating sights, making it well worth a half-day visit. Below is a detailed guide to the mansion’s highlights and practical tips for your visit.
Main Attractions: The Three Marvels and One Treasure
The Rear Screen Building (后罩楼): Known as Heshen’s treasure house, this building is adorned with intricately carved windows that are believed to hold hidden codes. The structure adds to the mystery and intrigue of the mansion.
Western-Style Gate (西洋门): This grand archway is crafted from white marble and reflects Western architectural influences, reminiscent of the Yuanmingyuan Palace’s Great Fountain. It’s a fine example of the blending of Eastern and Western design elements.
The Grand Opera Stage (大戏楼): One of the last surviving fully enclosed opera stages from the Qing Dynasty, this grand theater was once equipped with high-end acoustics, showcasing the importance of opera in royal entertainment.
The “Fu” Stele (福字碑): This stele bears an engraving of the Chinese character for “Fu” (福), meaning “good fortune,” which was personally inscribed by Emperor Kangxi. The symbol carries a deep meaning, representing wishes for many descendants, wealth, and longevity.
Other Highlights
Road to Step into the Clouds (平步青云路): After crossing two steps, symbolizing overcoming obstacles, you’ll walk a smooth path that leads to the highest point of the mansion—the Moon Viewing Platform (邀月台). The character “Xi” (喜) on the wall at the end of the road symbolizes happiness, and behind the platform, there is a word embedded that suggests wealth and prosperity.
Bat-Shaped Pond (蝠池): The pond resembles both a bat (a symbol of good fortune) and a treasure bowl. Each April, elm seeds shaped like coins fall into the pond, symbolizing a “pool of wealth” and embodying the harmony of fortune and prosperity.
Dule Peak (独乐峰): Also known as the “Stone of Guanyin, the Child-Giving Goddess,” this formation is believed to bring blessings for children.
Dragon King Temple (龙王庙): The entrance to this temple is adorned with red plaques where visitors hang their wishes and prayers for good fortune.
Xijin Studio (锡晋斋): This two-story tower, built with golden nanmu wood, was modeled after the Ning Shou Palace in the Forbidden City. It was intended to be a place of immortality for Heshen and reflects the splendor of imperial architecture.
Jiale Hall (嘉乐堂): This hall was the mansion’s main sacrificial site, where tablets of ancestors and deities were worshipped. It is a quiet and solemn place with historical significance.
Yinan Hall (银安殿): This hall was once the venue for important events. Today, it serves as an exhibition space for displays on Qing Dynasty royal culture.
Baoguang Hall (葆光室):Originally a reception hall, Baoguang Hall now houses exhibits on the history and transformation of Prince Gong’s Mansion, offering visitors a deep understanding of the site’s evolution.
Map of Route for the Mansion
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Admission: 40 RMB per person (Children under 6 years old can enter for free)
- Location: No. 17, Qianhai West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing
- Transportation: Take Line 6 of the Beijing Subway and exit at Beihai North Station, Exit B.
- Guided Tours: There are guided tour services available on both sides of the first gate, as well as self-service audio guides available at the second gate.
Visitor Tips
- Visitor Service Center: Located in the front courtyard’s eastern side, the center offers free luggage storage, mobile phone charging stations, and wheelchair or stroller rentals.
- Wi-Fi: The entire garden has Wi-Fi coverage. Connect to the network “GWF” for free internet access.
- Stamp and Souvenir Shops: For a unique memento of your visit, check out the creative souvenir shops such as Qiushui Shanfang (秋水山房), Chenghuai Xiexiu (澄怀撷秀), Baopu Zhai (宝朴斋), and Yunhua Si (韵花簃).