Hello everyone, my name is Michael Zhang. I am an experienced Chinese traveler with extensive international travel experience. Over the years, I have dedicated myself to exploring historical sites and cultural depths across the globe. I enjoy documenting each journey with professional insights and meticulous details. Today, I am taking you to one of Beijing’s lesser-known yet historically significant places—Ritan Park. Together, we will uncover the solemnity and tranquility that have endured for centuries within this hidden gem.

Summary

Introduction to Ritan Park

Ritan Park, formerly known as the Temple of the Sun, was constructed in 1530 during the ninth year of Emperor Jiajing’s reign in the Ming Dynasty. It served as the place where emperors of both the Ming and Qing dynasties worshiped the Sun God. Covering an area of 20.62 hectares, Ritan Park boasts 13.26 hectares of green spaces, a total vegetation coverage of 16.5 hectares, and a water surface area of 4,700 square meters. It is one of Beijing’s famous Five Altars (the Temple of Heaven, Ritan Park, Temple of the Moon, Temple of Earth, and Altar of Agriculture).

  • Address: No. 6, Ritan North Road, Chaoyangmen Outer Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hours:
    • Peak season: Daily 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
    • Off-season: Daily 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Suggested visit duration: 1–2 hours
  • Best visiting seasons: Year-round
  • Ticket prices: Free
Ritan Park Entrance and Surroundings

Ritan Park Map

Ritan Park Map Overview

Why You Should Visit Ritan Park

Rich Historical Background

Founded during the Ming Dynasty in 1530, Ritan Park served as the imperial site for worshiping the Sun God during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The park carries profound historical and cultural significance. It was transformed into a public park in 1955 and is now recognized as a National AAA-rated Tourist Attraction in China. In 2006, it was designated a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level.

Free Admission

Ritan Park offers free entry, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy its historical monuments and scenic beauty without any cost. This accessibility ensures that more people can easily experience the park’s rich heritage and lush landscapes.

Natural Beauty and Artistic Installations

Throughout Ritan Park, vibrant flowers bloom in abundance, especially tulips and magnolias, complemented by artful installations like flower baskets, floral vehicles, and decorative flower spheres. These displays create a picturesque “Spring in April” atmosphere. In addition, the park’s extensive greenery provides a peaceful setting ideal for leisurely walks and photography.

Top Things to Do in Ritan Park

Main Attractions

Sun Worship Murals

The Sun Worship Murals are among the most distinctive artistic attractions within Ritan Park. These murals vividly depict the solemn ceremonies where emperors worshiped the Sun God. Crafted using traditional techniques, the murals feature elegant colors and grand compositions, meticulously illustrating ritual etiquette, clothing, and offerings. Standing before them, visitors are transported back in time, experiencing the ancient reverence for nature and celestial deities.

Ritan Park Sun Worship Murals

Scenic Curved Pond

The Scenic Curved Pond lies within Ritan Park’s water area and is celebrated for its natural meandering water systems and exquisite garden design. The clear waters, shaded banks, and charming stone bridges create a living landscape painting. Whether paddling in spring or strolling in autumn, this area offers the most poetic and tranquil setting within the park, making it perfect for relaxation and photography.

Scenic Curved Pond in Ritan Park

Sacred Path

The Sacred Path is the principal walkway leading to the Sun Worship Altar and was once the holy route taken by emperors during their ritual ceremonies. Today, ancient trees line both sides of the stone-paved path, exuding a serene atmosphere steeped in history. Walking along the Sacred Path, visitors can almost hear the echoes of solemn royal processions, making it an essential part of any visit to Ritan Park.

Sacred Path of Ritan Park

Sun Worship Altar

The Sun Worship Altar stands as the central historical relic of Ritan Park and the spiritual heart of its worship complex. The altar’s design reflects the traditional imperial architectural style, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between heaven and earth. Standing at the center of the altar, one can deeply feel the solemnity with which emperors once prayed for national prosperity and peace. Visiting this site offers a profound insight into the cultural essence of Ritan Park.

Sun Worship Altar of Ritan Park

Ritan Park is not large, and visitors can explore all the major attractions following a single route. You can enter either from the South Gate or the North Gate. However, since the South Gate is slightly closer to the subway, it is usually the preferred entrance.

Recommended route: South Gate → Altar Ruins → Ancient Pine Forest → Ritan Stele Pavilion → Ritan Lake → Ritan Sacred Path → North Gate.

The area around Ritan Park is mostly occupied by embassies, so there are not many restaurants nearby. To find dining options, you will need to walk about two blocks, and prices tend to be higher, with Western cuisine being the primary offering.

Rustico Trattoria

Rustico Trattoria Oxtail Pasta Dish
  • Recommended reason: A Western restaurant known for its slow-braised oxtail with handmade wide noodles. The rich meat sauce generously covers long, thick strands of handmade pasta. It’s a solid choice for those looking to try Western dishes.
  • Address: No. 39, Shenlu Street, Block 10, No.1-58, Chaoyang District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Business hours: Monday to Sunday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Average cost per person: 295 RMB

RIDGE Cafe & Taproom

RIDGE Cafe and Taproom Entrance
  • Recommended reason: A community café with an industrial style. Featuring a gray exterior and small wooden tables and chairs, it exudes a refined atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to rest after a walk around the park.
  • Address: Room 2-104, F1, Building 28, No. 17, Jianguomen Outer Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Business hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Average cost per person: 97 RMB

How to Get to Ritan Park from Downtown Beijing

Since the nearest subway station is still about a 15-minute walk from Ritan Park, visitors traveling with elderly family members or young children may consider taking a ride-hailing service directly to the park entrance. For independent travelers, the subway remains a convenient option.

Subway

From downtown Beijing, take Subway Line 1 and get off at Yong’anli Station. Exit from A1 and walk. Alternatively, take Line 2 or Line 6 and get off at Chaoyangmen Station, exit from Exit A, and walk about 15 minutes to reach Ritan Park.

Bus

You can take bus routes 42, 44, or 120 and get off at the Ritan Road Station. Alternatively, take bus routes 101 or 109, get off at Shenlu Street Station, and walk approximately five minutes to the park entrance.

Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service

A taxi or ride-hailing trip from downtown Beijing to Ritan Park takes about 25 minutes and costs around 30 RMB.

FAQ

Is Ritan Park stroller- and wheelchair-friendly?

Yes, Ritan Park has a generally flat terrain with wide main pathways. The park features well-maintained walking paths that are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. In addition, the entrances and key attractions are equipped with accessible ramps, making it easy for all visitors to navigate the park. Some rest areas and restrooms are also fitted with accessibility features, ensuring a comfortable experience for families and travelers with special needs.

Where can I store my luggage?

There are storage lockers available at the North Gate of Ritan Park, suitable for storing backpacks. However, since visiting Ritan Park usually takes a relatively short amount of time, using the lockers is not highly recommended.

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