Sizeable... still crowded
4*
There isn't much to say that can't be found among other reviews; one can appreciate the size and importance of the area when there, not least because of the number of people (can get very crowded) and the security - having to show ID just to enter the square itself. Well worth a quick visit via the Metro even if you aren't intending to visit the Forbidden City.
Tranquil Sunday
4*
We had a lovely Sunday afternoon walk here after reading many positive reviews about this rather hidden gem in Beijing. A 2RMB entrance fee per person is next to nothing for such a nice, well maintained, natural area to enjoy. There was plenty of singing and dancing occurring throughout the park, and there were lovely flower beds and decorations dotted about. The view over the Forbidden City is about the best landscape view you'll find and if you have already visited the Forbidden City, as we had, it allows you to appreciate it's scale even more so.
It isn't extremely close to a subway station which is slightly frustrating. In addition and unfortunately, as so many other reviews mention, I couldn't give this park the 5 stars it deserves as it has a problem with SCAMMERS. Luckily we had read the prior TripAdvisor reviews about the park so expected the scams and obviously avoided them; one man tried to act all friendly asking general questions about yourself and telling you about the history of the park, followed by the suggestion he takes you to a nice tea house (you can read other reviews of what then happens) so we just told him we weren't interested and he clearly knows a lost cause and just disappears. It would be nice if the park authorities could look into it, alas it would certainly be worthy of a 5 stars then!
Updated: May 26, 2020
Crowded
4*
Being an iconic landmark in Beijing we of course had to visit. The entrance is impressive after arriving at Tiananmen East subway station (note: you need passports ready just to get into Tiananmen square, let alone the Forbidden City). Entering into the Forbidden City sees you go under multiple huge walls that all look the same, then you come to the ticket purchasing and entrance area. It is slightly confusing if you're not Chinese and don't already have a ticket; cash payments are processed in a few small windows to the right (when looking towards the Forbidden City) and your Passport number is used as the ticket when you get to the entrance.
Inside there is a lot of walking but the temples are impressive, albeit a bit repetitive/similar, and many were down shut off roads. Definitely the biggest issue was the number of people, you find yourself nearly being pushed off stairs when walking up and thrown into mosh pits at the viewing points for some main temples, so it can be slightly daunting. They have a limit of 80,000 people and I assume it was not reached on the day we visited so I can't imagine what it would be like at the height of peak season... There are some nice areas off the main paths though, with pleasant gardens and smaller temples. There is enough to fill the day and it's worth the experience, only costing 120RMB for two people; I would not visit during 'peak peak' times however.
