It was an artificial hill rising right above what was once the center of the Qing Empire--the Forbidden City. It was also an imperial garden created by the emperors, and only reserved for their eyes. The imperial court astronomers called it ‘The Guarding Hill’, and according to Feng Shui rites, it was believed at the time to protect the empire for eternity.
That place is the Jing Shan, or Prospect Hill. A historical hill which runs through the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, and which impresses all who ever visit it with its panoramic view of a city it has towered for centuries.
The emperors are long gone, but the hill continues to stand, watching over the remnants of a lost empire.
You can take a tour inside the park on the spur of the moment as roaming around, near the back of the Palace Museum once called the Forbidden City.
The Emperor was said to be the Heavens’ representative on Earth. The Forbidden City was his residence and was therefore forbidden to the commoners. Over the past 800 years, 24 emperors had occupied this vast palace. In times of peace, it stood for prosperity and pride of the country, as a place heavenly in nature which only the privileged could see.
During times of chaos however, the palace was a cursed place. And during the three successive empires which ruled from Beijing (the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties), the Forbidden City witnessed so much bloodshed it can be hardly considered a gift from Heavens.
You are welcome to learn more about Jin Shan Park at http://www.shopping-in-beijing.com or visit http://www.beijingtravelandtours.com .
