Zhang Henshui · Beijing

Author: Han Mo Lin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-03-01
Features: During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, it was the capital of Yan State; in the Liao and Jin dynasties, it was known as Nanjing and Zhongdu; in the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, it was established as the capital; after the founding of the People's Republic, it became the political and cultural center of the nation. Since ancient times, Beijing has held significant political importance, standing uniquely in the northern region with its distinctive posture. These historical legacies have endowed Beijing with: the world's largest ancient palace complex—the Forbidden City, a crystallization of ancient Chinese architectural art, where the Palace Museum preserves nearly a million cultural relics and artworks, truly a treasure trove of the world; one of the Eight Wonders of the World—the Great Wall, stretching hundreds of kilometers in the suburbs of Beijing, representing the most exquisite section of the Great Wall; the world's largest altar for worshipping heaven—the Temple of Heaven, with its exquisite architecture and grandeur, considered an immortal work in the history of architecture; the world's most densely concentrated imperial mausoleums—the Ming Thirteen Tombs, where thirteen mausoleums are adjacent to each other, exuding a powerful aura, with their mysterious underground palaces and burial artifacts inviting exploration; one of the world's largest imperial gardens—the Summer Palace, often referred to as a museum of Chinese gardens. The cultural landscape alone is enough to captivate visitors. Moreover, the majestic Yan Mountains dominate the region, with rare pools scattered among them, offering a rugged and magnificent northern landscape that contrasts sharply with the delicate and gentle scenery of the Jiangnan region, yet remains equally enchanting. Beijing, a historic and cultural city, holds a special significance in Chinese history and in people's memories. This book compiles articles by Zhang Henshu, one of the most representative writers of this city, describing the ancient urban scenery of Beijing, accompanied by beautiful illustrations, forming a pictorial album that introduces the landscape and historical culture of this ancient city. Half a century has passed, and the ancient city has undergone changes and transformations. We can savor the charm of the old city through the passage of time. However, in just over a hundred pages, how can we encompass thousands of years of history? We can only present a glimpse of the ancient city; the rest awaits the readers to experience firsthand and explore at their leisure.