Jishuitan Station

Jishuitan Station: Visiting Hours, Ticket Information, and Nearby Historical Attractions in Beijing

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Jishuitan Station (积水潭站) is a key interchange on Beijing’s subway network, blending historic significance with modern utility. Located in the Xicheng District at the crossroads of Line 2 and Line 19, it offers immediate access to some of Beijing’s most iconic cultural sites. More than a transport hub, Jishuitan Station is a gateway to Beijing’s rich past and vibrant present, allowing travelers to explore scenic lakes, ancient towers, and traditional hutongs with ease (China Daily).

This guide provides detailed information about visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and highlights the historical and cultural attractions accessible from Jishuitan Station. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, this resource will help you make the most of your time in Beijing’s historic core.

Introduction
Historical Context and Significance
Jishuitan Station: Architecture and Facilities
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
Accessibility Features
Major Attractions Near Jishuitan Station
Travel Tips and Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

Historical Context and Significance

Jishuitan Station’s name, meaning “Accumulated Water Pool,” commemorates its origins as a vital reservoir at the northern terminus of the Grand Canal—a waterway central to Beijing’s historical development and defense. The station stands in Xicheng District, a locale rich with imperial history and cultural legacy. The surrounding Shichahai area has been a hub of social, commercial, and recreational life since the Yuan Dynasty, reflecting Beijing’s evolution from a canal port to a modern metropolis (China Daily, Ruqin Travel).

Jishuitan Station: Architecture and Facilities

Jishuitan Station is an interchange for Line 2—the historic loop following the ancient city walls—and the modern Line 19, enhancing north-south connectivity. The station’s architecture respects Beijing’s heritage while serving today’s commuters. Murals and calligraphic plaques inside the station celebrate the area’s water management heritage, and clear bilingual signage ensures ease of navigation for international visitors (My Beijing China).

Platform and Exits:

Platforms: Underground island platforms for both Line 2 and Line 19, offering efficient transfers.
Exits: Seven marked exits (A, B1, B2, C, D, F, G1), each connecting to major roads, bus stops, and nearby attractions. Exits are equipped with ramps or elevators to facilitate accessibility.

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Operating Hours: Daily from approximately 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, matching the Beijing Subway’s general schedule (My Beijing China).
Ticket Prices: Fares start at 2–3 RMB, increasing with distance. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines or via Beijing’s Yikatong travel card and major mobile payment apps.
Entry: There is no separate entry fee for Jishuitan Station itself; a valid subway ticket is required for platform access.

Accessibility Features

Jishuitan Station offers comprehensive accessibility:

Elevators and ramps at main exits.
Tactile paving for the visually impaired.
Accessible restrooms within the paid area.
Wide fare gates for wheelchair users and travelers with luggage.

Major Attractions Near Jishuitan Station

Shichahai Scenic Area

A short walk east, this trio of lakes—Qianhai, Houhai, and Xihai—has long been a center for leisure, boating, and nightlife. The leafy banks and historic temples create a tranquil yet lively atmosphere (Visit Beijing - Shichahai).

Bell and Drum Towers

Located northeast of the station, these towers were historically Beijing’s official timekeepers. Today, visitors can climb for panoramic city views and enjoy traditional drum performances. Open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays), tickets are 20 RMB for adults with discounts for students and seniors (Asia Travel Simplified).

Historic Hutongs

Explore the preserved hutongs—narrow alleys lined with courtyard homes—like Yandaixiejie and Nanluoguxiang. These areas offer shopping, local snacks, and glimpses of traditional Beijing life (Ruqin Travel).

Xu Beihong Memorial Hall

Dedicated to the influential Chinese artist, this museum displays his works and legacy. Check current opening hours online and expect a modest entry fee (Xu Beihong Memorial Hall Information).

Travel Tips and Visitor Information

Best Times to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons help avoid crowds at both the station and nearby sites.
Payment: Have cash or a mobile payment app for tickets and local purchases.
Navigation: Use bilingual signage and navigation apps for easy transfers and trip planning.
Security: Expect airport-style security checks at subway entrances.
Guided Tours: Local operators offer walking tours starting from Jishuitan Station, focusing on hutongs and historical landmarks.
Photography: Top spots include Shichahai lakes at sunset, the Bell and Drum Towers, and bustling hutong streets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Jishuitan Station’s operating hours?
A: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Q: Do I need a separate ticket for Jishuitan Station?
A: No, a standard Beijing Subway ticket or travel card suffices.

Q: Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and accessible facilities.

Q: Which nearby attractions should I not miss?
A: Shichahai Scenic Area, Bell and Drum Towers, Nanluoguxiang hutong, and Xu Beihong Memorial Hall.

Q: How do I get to the Badaling Great Wall from Jishuitan?
A: Exit A leads to Deshengmen Bus Station, with buses to Badaling.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Jishuitan Station is more than a metro stop—it’s your entry point to Beijing’s living history. Its strategic location and comprehensive facilities make it easy to explore scenic lakes, imperial towers, and traditional hutongs. For real-time updates, digital tickets, and in-depth guides on Beijing’s historical sites, download the Audiala app. Start your journey at Jishuitan and immerse yourself in the heart of China’s capital.