At Sen Yu Hu (Ruins) in Beijing, you can feel the weight of history and the marvels of nature. Once part of an imperial garden, this site still retains its ancient charm. Walking through the area, you'll find every stone and leaf seems to whisper tales from the past. If you love exploring history and culture, Sen Yu Hu is a must-visit destination.


Everything you need to know about Senyuhu
Recommended is Beijing Jinghua Hotel, located just 1.5 km from Senyu Hu Site, offering easy walking access. The hotel blends modern design with traditional Chinese aesthetics, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that provide panoramic views of the Forbidden City’s rooftops and ancient trees. It's only a 3-minute walk from the Tiananmen East Metro Station (Line 1), ideal for early morning visits to the site. The hotel offers free guided tours, helping guests understand the historical significance of Senyu Hu as a Ming Dynasty imperial garden relic.
Take Line 1 of the Beijing Subway to "Tiananmen East" station, exit A, then walk south along Dong Chang'an Avenue for about 15 minutes to reach the ruins entrance. This route avoids heavy traffic and passes by the majestic Tiananmen Square and Monument to the People's Heroes. For comfort, consider HopeGoo a private car service—only 10 minutes away at approximately 80 RMB per trip. On-site parking is available but recommended for non-driving visitors to reduce environmental impact and navigation challenges.
Visit during morning or late afternoon for the Ming Dynasty Garden Gathering Experience, where professional guides reenact ancient poetic banquets with guqin music, tea ceremonies, and calligraphy workshops. Every Saturday afternoon features a "Archaeology Workshop", allowing participants to clean unearthed ceramic fragments and learn to identify Qing-era architectural motifs. Reservations required 24 hours in advance via official platforms; fee is 60 RMB/person, including materials and handouts. These activities deepen historical appreciation and promote cultural heritage.
Mo Garden Café, located west of the ruins, draws inspiration from classical garden design. Its interior features original timber beams and bamboo lanterns, creating a serene atmosphere. Try their signature "Yuhu Latte," combining caramel notes with handmade pastries, paired with views of ancient cypress trees and stone inscriptions. Another must-visit is Zichen Tea Nook, tucked in a side alley near the Forbidden City’s western wing, specializing in "Scholarly Tea Dinners" with seasonal snacks tied to the 24 solar terms. Both offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets—perfect for rest or photography.
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM), closed on Mondays for maintenance. Public holidays remain open. Admission is free, but visitors must register with valid ID at the entrance and undergo security screening. Guided tours or special events cost an additional 30 RMB/person. To avoid crowds, visit midweek mornings. The site provides wheelchair-accessible paths and free wheelchairs for disabled visitors, ensuring inclusive access.
Nearby Jingshan Park is perfect for families, featuring a children’s splash pool, slides, and an outdoor theater hosting weekly "Kids’ History Lessons" through role-playing games about Ming Dynasty life. The park also has scenic jogging trails and shaded rest areas. Adjacent Beihai Park offers paddle boat rentals, allowing visitors to view the ruins from the water while enjoying a peaceful ride. All facilities are free, with parent lounges and stroller rentals available—ideal for a relaxed, engaging outing.
Explore more amazing destinations