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The Nine Dragon Screen of Beihai
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The Nine Dragon Screen of Beihai is a stunning piece of Chinese art and architecture, standing proudly within the expansive Beihai Park in central Beijing. Built in 1756 during the Qing Dynasty, this 25-meter-long and 6.65-meter-high screen is adorned with nine intricately designed dragons in vibrant colors, set against a background of waves and clouds. The screen is made of glazed tiles, with each dragon symbolizing imperial power and good fortune. Visitors can admire the detailed craftsmanship up close, noting the dragons' dynamic poses and the vivid blues, greens, and yellows that have remained remarkably vivid over centuries. The screen is one of three such screens in China, and its location in Beihai Park, a former imperial garden, adds to its historical ambiance. As you stroll through the park, the screen offers a perfect photo opportunity and a glimpse into the artistry of the Qing era.
Don't miss
- Admire the nine vividly colored dragons, each with a unique pose and expression.
- Examine the intricate glazed tile work, featuring waves, clouds, and auspicious symbols.
- Visit the adjacent Beihai Park, a former imperial garden with lakes and pavilions.
- Photograph the screen from different angles to capture the dragons' dynamic energy.
- Learn about the screen's symbolism and its place in Qing Dynasty art.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit The Nine Dragon Screen of Beihai
You can visit on your own (paid entry to beihai park is required; check the official site for current fees. the screen is inside the park). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inTemple of Heaven Ticket Booking4★ · 40 travelers1–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →
Most bookedBeijing Forbidden City Ticket Booking (Optional: guide service)4.8★ · 1,471 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$9 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleTiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace4.9★ · 288 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$138 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Arrive early to avoid peak crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Bring a camera; the screen's colors and details are highly photogenic.
- Carry water, as the park can get hot in summer.
- Combine your visit with other Beihai Park attractions like White Pagoda and the Five Dragon Pavilions.
A bit of history
The Nine Dragon Screen was constructed in 1756 under the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty. It was originally built as a decorative wall for the Hall of the Heavenly King in the former Imperial City, serving both aesthetic and symbolic purposes to ward off evil spirits.
Common questions
Is the Nine Dragon Screen indoors or outdoors?
It is an outdoor structure, so weather can affect your visit.
Can I touch the screen?
No, touching is not allowed to preserve the glazed tiles.
How old is the screen?
It was built in 1756, making it over 260 years old.
Are there other dragon screens in Beijing?
Yes, there are two others: one in the Forbidden City and one in the Summer Palace.
Is the screen part of a larger complex?
Yes, it is located within Beihai Park, a former imperial garden.
What do the nine dragons symbolize?
In Chinese culture, nine is an imperial number, and dragons represent power, strength, and good fortune.
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