Beijing Hidden Gems: A Literary Walk Through Peking University’s Hidden Paths
- Date：
- Views：9
- Source：The Silk Road Echo
Think Beijing is all about the Forbidden City and the Great Wall? Think again. Tucked behind the city's bustling streets lies a quieter kind of magic — one paved with ivy-covered brick, whispered poetry, and century-old trees that have watched generations of dreamers walk by. Welcome to Peking University (PKU), not just China’s most prestigious academic institution, but also a living museum of literature, history, and serene beauty.
Forget crowded tourist traps. This isn’t about ticking off landmarks — it’s about wandering through time. PKU’s campus, especially the former Yenching University grounds, blends classical Chinese garden design with Western architecture, creating a dreamscape where every path feels like a page from a novel. And yes, some of modern China’s greatest writers once strolled these same lanes.
Let’s take a literary-inspired walk through PKU’s hidden corners — no student ID required.
The Heartbeat of the Campus: Weiming Lake
Weiming Lake isn’t just picturesque; it’s poetic. Legend has it that Qian Zhongshu, author of Fortress Besieged, would sit by its banks scribbling lines. Today, you’ll find students reading under willow trees and lovers tracing hearts into wooden benches. The lake reflects both sky and soul — especially at dawn, when mist curls over the water like old ink on rice paper.
Stone Archway & Jingchun Garden: Where History Whispers
The iconic Stone Archway marks the old entrance of Yenching University. Behind it? Jingchun Garden — a maze of pavilions, lotus ponds, and quiet courtyards. This was once the residence of Qing dynasty princes. Now, it houses academic centers, but the air still hums with imperial elegance.
| Spot | Literary Connection | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Weiming Lake | Qian Zhongshu, Fei Xiaotong | Sunrise or late afternoon |
| Jingchun Garden | Inspired scenes in Lu Xun’s essays | Spring (March–May) |
| Camellia Path | Favored by poet Mu Dan | Winter bloom (January–February) |
| Blue Sea Building | Former library; frequented by Hu Shi | Weekday mornings |
Camellia Path: A Poet’s Winter Reverie
When winter hits, most gardens go quiet. Not here. Camellia Path erupts in soft pink and white blooms while snow dusts the cobblestones. Mid-20th-century poet Mu Dan taught at PKU and often walked this route, drawing metaphors from nature’s resilience. Today, it’s a favorite for contemplative walks — and Instagram shots that feel more classic painting than social media post.
Pro Tips for Visiting
- Access: Enter through the East Gate (near Wanquan River Road). Bring your passport for registration.
- Timing: Avoid exam periods (June & December) — campus gets tense, not tranquil.
- Etiquette: Speak softly. This is a place of study and reflection.
Peking University isn’t just a school — it’s a sanctuary of stories. Whether you're a bookworm, history buff, or just chasing peace in a chaotic city, this literary walk offers something deeper than sightseeing. It’s a chance to breathe where great minds once dreamed.