Want to walk in the footsteps of Qing dynasty princes and feel the magic of old Beijing? Prince Kung’s Mansion is your perfect start. It’s not just a museum, but the city’s largest royal mansion, so it’s packed with stories of power, luxury, and clever design. People call it “half the history of the Qing Dynasty,” because from its grand halls to its secret garden, every corner is one of Beijing’s great hidden treasures.
📍 Why You Can’t Miss This Spot
First, its history is fascinating. The super-wealthy minister Heshen built it, but his extreme style broke the rules and caused his fall. Then, it was home to Prince Kung, a key modernizer. So, walking here lets you touch the lives of the empire’s most powerful men and discover the hidden treasures of old Beijing.
🏛️ Your Tour: Residence, Garden & Hidden Treasures
The mansion has two parts: the formal Residence and the relaxing Garden. You must see both!
- The Grand Residence: Feel the royal power in the large courtyards. Don’t miss the incredibly long Rear Covering Building—it looks like a wall, but it’s actually a building once used as a treasury!
- The Secret Garden (Cuijin Yuan): This is the true highlight. It’s a peaceful escape with:
- The Western-Style Gate: A beautiful marble arch showing foreign influence.
- The “Fortune” Stele: Find the hidden cave to see Emperor Kangxi’s sacred “Fu” (福) character—touch it for good luck!
- The Grand Opera House: A stunning all-wooden theater. Stand inside and imagine the music.
🗺️ Explore More Nearby
After your visit, the adventure continues right outside! This old Beijing landmark is in the heart of Shichahai, one of the area’s most lively and historic hidden treasures.
- Just North: Walk 5 minutes to Houhai Lake. You can rent a paddle boat in summer, or simply enjoy the view from a lakeside café.
- For a Walk: Stroll through the traditional hutongs (alleys) around the lake. You’ll find local shops, tea houses, and see everyday Beijing life.
- Cultural Stop: A short walk away is the Bell and Drum Towers, which offer amazing rooftop views of the old city.
- For Your Meal: After exploring, complete your day with an iconic Beijing meal. Check out our guide to the Must-Try Beijing Duck Restaurants for the best places nearby. If you have dietary concerns like a nut allergy, our Nut-Free Food Guide offers essential tips for eating safely in the city.
💡 Smart Tips for Your Visit to Prince Kung’s Mansion
- 📍 Address: No. 17, Qianhai West Street, Xicheng District.
- 🚇 Subway: Take Line 6 to Beihai North Station 北海北站, Exit B. Walk north for 5-10 minutes.
- 🎫 Ticket: ¥40. Important: You must book online in advance via the official WeChat channel (“恭王府博物馆”).
- 🕐 Time Needed: Plan for 2.5 to 4 hours to see everything comfortably.
- ℹ️ Official Info: For the latest opening hours and details, check the official VisitBeijing page https://r.visitbeijing.com.cn/attraction/682 for Prince Kung’s Mansion.
Here’s how to have the best visit:
- Get a Guide: The stories make everything come alive, so we highly recommend an audio guide or joining a tour.
- Follow the Path: See the Residence first, and then relax in the Garden.
- Hunt for Bats: Look for bat designs in the woodwork—they are symbols for “good fortune”!
- Go Early: It gets crowded, so a weekday morning visit is much more peaceful.
Ready to unlock the secrets of princes and explore the soul of old Beijing? Prince Kung’s Mansion is waiting with its hidden treasures.
Let Our Beijing guide you deeper. We turn history into an experience. Join one of our Hutong adventure to see Beijing beyond guides and discover more hidden treasures of the Shichahai area with a knowledgeable local.
Explore Our Beijing Routes and Plan Your Adventure Today!
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