China National Botanical Garden

China National Botanical Garden Beijing: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled at the foot of Beijing’s Western Hills in Haidian District, the China National Botanical Garden (CNBG) is a flagship destination merging natural beauty, advanced scientific research, and centuries of cultural heritage. Officially inaugurated in 2022, the CNBG is the result of a landmark integration between the historic Beijing Botanical Garden and the Institute of Botany of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, forming a world-class dual-campus garden. Spanning approximately 600 hectares, the CNBG is home to over 17,000 plant species, including rare and endangered flora, and is recognized for its thematic zones, extensive herbarium, and exhibition greenhouses. Visitors will encounter not only botanical wonders but also historic landmarks such as the Kangxi Imperial Stele, a Bodhi tree gifted by India, and the Tang Dynasty–era Wofo Temple. This comprehensive guide provides practical details on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, attractions, and travel tips, equipping you for a rewarding experience in one of Asia’s premier botanical and historical sites (China National Botanical Garden Visiting Hours, Tickets & Guide; Visiting the China National Botanical Garden in Beijing; Beijing Walking).

Introduction
Historical Overview and Significance
Garden Structure: South and North Gardens
- South Garden: Science and Heritage
- North Garden: Conservation and Public Engagement
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Highlights, Attractions, and Recommended Routes
Events and Festivals
Travel Directions and Nearby Attractions
Practical Tips for a Great Visit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview and Significance

The roots of the CNBG trace back to the early 1950s with the founding of the Beijing Botanical Garden, established as a hub for plant research and conservation (beijingwalking.com). In 2022, the State Council unified the Institute of Botany (Chinese Academy of Sciences) and the Beijing Botanical Garden into the CNBG, creating a dual-campus institution of international standing (chnbg.cn; wikipedia.org). The garden is a national flagship for conservation and botanical science, underscoring China’s commitment to safeguarding biodiversity—a critical effort since the country is home to roughly 10% of the world’s higher plant species, many of which are threatened (Sixth Tone).

Garden Structure: South and North Gardens

South Garden: Science and Heritage

The South Garden serves as the scientific core, housing the Institute of Botany, CAS—China’s oldest botanical research entity. It features 15 specialized gardens, such as the Peony, Lilac, and Oak Gardens, along with significant cultural relics like the Kangxi Imperial Stele and the Bodhi tree from India (chnbg.cn). The South Garden is also known for Asia’s largest herbarium with over five million plant specimens, supporting advanced research, conservation, and public education.

North Garden: Conservation and Public Engagement

Spanning roughly 200 hectares, the North Garden is designed for public enjoyment and conservation outreach. It features 14 themed gardens, including the Peach, Rose, and Bonsai Gardens, as well as the Cherry Valley Natural Reserve, which preserves rare Metasequoia trees. The Exhibition Greenhouse—Asia’s largest—showcases tropical, desert, and other exotic plant collections. The historic Wofo Temple offers a tranquil setting and a glimpse into the site’s deep cultural roots (beijingwalking.com).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

North Garden:

Peak Season (March–October): 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Off-Peak (November–February): 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM

South Garden: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (year-round)

Tickets:

General admission: 5–30 RMB depending on area and exhibitions
Discounts: Students, seniors, and children (check current policies)
Purchase: On-site or online via the official platform (advance booking recommended during festivals or holidays) (beijingwalking.com)

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Wheelchair Accessibility: The CNBG is wheelchair-friendly, with rental wheelchairs available and paved, accessible paths throughout main sections.
Shuttle Buses: Intra-garden shuttle buses help visitors navigate the vast grounds.
Visitor Centers: Provide maps, power bank rentals, and information (English signage available, though staff English proficiency may vary).
Facilities: Clean restrooms (Western and squat toilets), cafes, gift shops, rest areas, and picnic spots. (beijing-visitor.com)

Highlights, Attractions, and Recommended Routes

Thematic Zones and Main Attractions

Ornamental Plant Zones: Peony, Rose, Magnolia, and Cherry Blossom gardens—especially vibrant in spring.
Arboretum and Ancient Trees: Features rare and ancient species like dawn redwoods and ginkgo.
Medicinal Plant Garden: Over 1,000 species with educational signage.
Conservatories/Greenhouses: Tropical, desert, and subtropical flora on display all year.
Cultural Sites: Memorial Hall of Cao Xueqin and Wofo Temple.

Photographic and Walking Highlights

Cherry Valley Natural Reserve: Ideal for nature photography.
Peony Garden: Peak bloom in late spring.
Exhibition Greenhouse: Colorful displays year-round.

Suggested Route: Start in the North Garden for open landscapes and themed gardens in the morning, then transition to the South Garden for specialized plant collections and cultural sites in the afternoon.

Events and Festivals

Peony Festival: April–May
Cherry Blossom Festival: March–April
Chrysanthemum Exhibition: Autumn
Orchid Exhibition: Various dates

Festivals include floral displays, cultural performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities. Check the official website for schedules.

Travel Directions and Nearby Attractions

Address: No. 1, Xiangshan Road, Xiangshan, Haidian District, Beijing (between Fragrant Hills Park and Jade Spring Hill)
(chinatripedia.com)

Transport:

Subway: West Suburb Subway Line to National Botanical Garden Station
Buses: 318, 360, 505, 563, 698, and 932

Parking: Available near main entrances.

Nearby Attractions:

Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan Park)
Summer Palace
Jade Spring Hill

Practical Tips for a Great Visit

Best Seasons: Spring (cherry blossoms, peonies), autumn (chrysanthemums, foliage)
What to Bring: Passport/ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, reusable water bottle, umbrella/raincoat, translation apps, power bank
Digital Payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted
Connectivity: Consider a China eSIM or local SIM card for data
Etiquette: No tipping required, dispose of trash properly, and be respectful with photography
Safety: Security checks at entry; the garden is safe with staff on duty

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the CNBG visiting hours?
A: North Garden: 6:00 AM–9:00 PM (peak), 6:30 AM–7:00 PM (off-peak); South Garden: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (year-round). Always check the official website for updates.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: General admission ranges from 5 to 30 RMB. Discounts are available for eligible visitors.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase on-site or online. Advance booking is advised during peak times.

Q: Is the garden wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with accessible paths, shuttle services, and rental wheelchairs.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in both Chinese and English. Check availability at the visitor center or online.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Spring and autumn offer the most vibrant plant displays and comfortable weather.

Q: Are there historical sites in the garden?
A: Yes, including the Memorial Hall of Cao Xueqin and Wofo Temple.

References and Further Reading

Final Tips and Recommendations

The China National Botanical Garden stands as a testament to China’s dedication to plant conservation, scientific innovation, and cultural preservation. Its dual-campus model offers both specialized research and public enjoyment, while accessibility features, guided tours, and rich amenities ensure a fulfilling visit for all types of travelers. For up-to-date information on hours, ticketing, and events, consult the official sources and consider using the Audiala app for enhanced planning. Embrace the opportunity to discover Beijing’s botanical gem—a living museum and a vibrant center for learning and relaxation.