Qing Dynasty school building opens to public in Beijing

The Qi Wang Building inside Jingshan Park has attracted a large number of visitors since opening to the public for free in Beijing on Thursday.

Situated near the south gate of Jingshan Park, the building was known as the Hall of Shanqian during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

Later in the Qing Dynasty, it became a place for Emperor Kangxi to entertain civil and military officials, leaders of tribes and envoys who paid tribute in the empire's capital.

The hall was dismantled in 1750 during the reign of Emperor Qianlong, and the Qi Wang Building was constructed at the site. Upon completion, the building became a shrine to Confucius and a school where officials paid respect to this Great Sage.

After the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the building underwent several large-scale renovations and held exhibitions temporarily, but never opened to the public.

The 265-year-old building now displays 23 precious artifacts and more than 100 old photos and materials, which enable visitors to learn about the historical transition of the former imperial garden of Jingshan.