Temperatures in Beijing reached a historical high of 39 degrees Celsius on May 29, 2014. However, despite the stunning scenery in Beihai Park, few people were able to bear the searing heat in order to appreciate the park′s beauty. Photos: CRIENGLISH.com

Located to the west of the Forbidden City and Jingshan Park, Beihai (literally the Northern Sea) Park is one of the oldest, largest and best-preserved ancient imperial gardens in China. It was the former palace of several emperors for successive dynasties. The park covers an area of 68 hectares, half of which is covered by a lake. The park′s landscape includes artificial hills, pavilions, halls, temples and covered corridors, and is one of the best examples of China′s classical gardens. It is a combination of the grandiose nature of northern Chinese gardens and the refinement of gardens found in southern China.

Temperatures in Beijing reached a historical high of 39 degrees Celsius on May 29, 2014. However, despite the stunning scenery in Beihai Park, few people were able to bear the searing heat in order to appreciate the park′s beauty.

Temperatures in Beijing reached a historical high of 39 degrees Celsius on May 29, 2014. However, despite the stunning scenery in Beihai Park, few people were able to bear the searing heat in order to appreciate the park′s beauty.

Temperatures in Beijing reached a historical high of 39 degrees Celsius on May 29, 2014. However, despite the stunning scenery in Beihai Park, few people were able to bear the searing heat in order to appreciate the park′s beauty.

Temperatures in Beijing reached a historical high of 39 degrees Celsius on May 29, 2014. However, despite the stunning scenery in Beihai Park, few people were able to bear the searing heat in order to appreciate the park′s beauty.