Ritan Park (Altar of the Sun)

The Altar of the Sun, originally known as the Altar of the Rising Sun. The altar is located sacrifices to the God of the Sun. The altar is located in Beijing' s diplomatic quarter to the northern of Chaoyangmen (Facing the Sun) Gate. A square marble platform once stood in the garden; its ruins remain. In 1949, the people' s government turned the area into Ritan Park.

In the fall of 1980, construction of a large garden was begun in the southeastern corner of the park. This garden is called "The Curving Pond and the Roses Which Surpass Springtime" (Quchi Shengchun). The garden occupies a full hectare of land with a pond in the center.

Next to the pond are three tall snow pines and to the east, peach and persimmon trees. A landscaped flower garden stands to the west. In addition, at the foot of the little hill to the east is a trio of graceful magnolias.

A Sketch of New Scenery in Ritan Park

Yuxin Garden

Yuxin Garden takes an area of 3,000 sq meters. The scenery is enchanting: walking along the winding path in the garden you can see a sycamore one meter (1.1 yards) in girth. The thick-branched and wide-spreading tree is like a beach umbrella, providing welcome shade for summer visitors.

Southwest Scenic Section

The forest-clad mountain and the beautiful lake complete the scene. The lake covers an area of about 4,700 sq meters (5,621 sq yards), and it sparkles in the sunlight. Ancient-style pavilions, painted stone and boats wait by the side of the lake.

 Qinghui Pavilion

Qinghui Pavilion is located in the southeast side of Ritan Park. You can enjoy the beautiful sunrise here.
 

Entrance Fee:	Free
Opening Hours:	06:00—21:00
Bus Routes:	1. Take bus 1, 4, or 729 and get off at Ritanlu Station; 2. Take bus 44, 750 or 800 and get off at Yabaolu Station; 3. Take bus 112 or 846 and get off at Shenlujie Station; 4. Take bus 28, 43 or 110 and get off at Fangcaodi Station.
Best time to visit:	April-November

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