Jingxin Studio in Beihai Park

Jingxin Studio, originally named Jingqing Studio, is located on the north shore of Beihai, adjacent to the Hall of Heavenly King. It was built in the 22nd year of Emperor Qianlong's reign in the Qing Dynasty (1757), covering an area of 4700 square meters. It was the study of the crown prince. The main scenery is the stacked stones, surrounded by various buildings, pavilions, small bridges and flowing water, stacked stone caves, elegant and quiet, cleverly arranged, reflecting the essence of the northern courtyard garden art in China. It is a 'garden in the garden' with unique architecture and style. In the 11th year of Emperor Guangxu's reign in the Qing Dynasty (1885), Empress Dowager Cixi used the naval funds to add and repair the buildings in the studio, and set up a small train station, with the railway running from Zhongnanhai through Yangze Gate to the northwest shore directly to the studio gate. In the 26th year of Guangxu, the Eight-Power Allied Forces occupied Beihai, and the station was destroyed. In 1900, the Eight-Power Allied Forces occupied Beijing, and the command post of the Japanese invading army was set up in Jingxin Studio, causing severe damage to Jingxin Studio. In 1913, during Yuan Shikai's rule, he greatly renovated the place and used it as a place for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to entertain guests. After 1949, Jingxin Studio became the office of the State Council Advisory Office and the Central Literature and History Research Institute. The last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, Puyi, also worked here after his liberation. In November 1981, Jingxin Studio was returned to Beihai Park.