The ancient architectural complex of Yilan Hall on Qionghua Island, Beihai Park

The ancient architectural complex of Yilan Hall, which reopened to the public at the end of 2023, is located on the north side of Qionghua Island. The complex is large in scale and exquisitely magnificent. It consists of Yilan Hall in the center, Bizhao Building opposite, Daoning Studio on the west side, Yuanfan Pavilion opposite, Qinglan Huayun on the east side, and the theater opposite. Yilan Hall was named by Emperor Qianlong. 'Yilan' means water ripple, and in the plaques and couplets of the Yilan Hall ancient architectural complex, images of waves, wind, clouds, and smoke appear frequently. Yilan Hall was first built in the sixteenth year of Emperor Qianlong's reign (1751) and served as a place for royal leisure, banquets, and cultural activities. The small two-story pavilion of Daoning Studio is a rare place where the emperor read and enjoyed the scenery, showcasing a study that is tranquil and suitable for poetry and literature. Yilan Hall opens at 8:00 AM and requires a ticket. The Beihai Park combo ticket costs 20 yuan, including access to the Yilan Hall garden within a garden. Free guided tours are available from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM.