Shichahai is located in the downtown of Beijing, with crisscross waterways and moist and cool air. This area was mostly occupied by water during the Yuan Dynasty , but a gold ingot-shaped islet emerged out of water during the Ming Dynasty. Since then, many Buddhist temples, noblemen's mansions and celebrities' residences have been built here, as this islet is considered a land of good fortune according to Chinese geomantic traditions.
Prince Gong's Mansion stands on the southern bank of Shichahai. As the best preserved princely mansion of the Qing Dynasty, it is known for its well-built garden and structures, blending magnificence of royal palaces and elegance of private residences, traditions of Chinese architecture and elements of Western culture.
It used to be the residence of a intellectual in Qing Dynasty. It was first built in 1776-1785. The first year of emperor Xian Feng(1851), whose brother got the title of prince Gong in 1851. Later the palace was bestowed on the prince Gong.It is the best preserved Prince palaces in Beijing.
Prince Gong's Mansion is rich in cultural and historical traditions. Persons and events related to this mansion are recognized as an important part of the history of the Qing Dynasty. Today, a cultural and historic neighborhood featuring traditions of princely mansions and centered around Prince Gong's Mansion has been developed, characterized by magnificent royal buildings, quiet environment and rich cultural and historical traditions.

Business hour
High season (1st Mar. to  15th Nov.) Business hour:7:30 to 16:30 (per day)
Low season (16th Nov. to 29th Feb.) Business hour:8:00 to16:00 (per day)