Zhang Henshu -- Beijing

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Features: The capital of the Yan State during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods; known as Nanjing and Zhongdu during the Liao and Jin dynasties; established as the capital with administrative systems during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties; the political and cultural center of the nation after the founding of the People's Republic of China. Since ancient times, Beijing has held significant political importance, standing uniquely in the northern region with its distinctive character. These historical legacies have endowed Beijing with: the world's largest ancient palace complex—the Forbidden City, a crystallization of ancient Chinese architectural art; the Palace Museum houses nearly a million cultural relics and artworks, making it 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 clustered imperial tombs—the Ming Thirteen Tombs, with thirteen mausoleums adjacent to each other, exuding an imposing atmosphere, and the mysterious underground palaces and burial artifacts invite 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 landscapes of Beijing, accompanied by beautiful illustrations, forming a pictorial album that introduces the scenic beauty, historical culture, and natural wonders of this ancient city. More than 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 in detail.