Prince Gong's Castle-Beijing Site

Built during the Qing Dynasty, about 1777 as the private residence of Heshan who had an extremely rapid rise up the Civil Service ladder.  He had acquired great wealth, as well as many enemies.  When the Qing Emperor Qianlong (1736 – 1796) died his successor Jiaqing (1796-1820) had Heshan executed. The residence passed along to other hands and during the reign of Emperor Xianfeng (1851-1862) ownership was transferred to Prince Gong. 

However,we were invited to be lead through the Castle by a fengshui scholar who was todescribe the design of the space as it followed fengshui principles.  Alas, our fengshui scholar only spoke Chineseand my understanding of his discussion was limited.

I was accompanied by three bilingual speakers, Chinese/English and none could really supply me with a comprehensive translation, since the language was specialized. 

As described in the barest detail is that fengshui is the study of creating a space which can take advantage, or even harness the natural forces, qi, of the universe.                

The best we have is some lovely photos and a nice walk in the lovely gardens.