Located in Haidian District, northwest Beijing, Peking University (Beijing University) is one of China’s most prestigious institutions of higher education and an important symbol of the country’s academic and cultural development.
Founded in 1898 as the Imperial University of Peking, it was the first modern national university in China to cover a comprehensive range of disciplines. At the beginning of its history, it also served as the highest educational administration institution in the country.
With more than a century of history, Peking University has played a significant role in China’s modernization and remains one of the country’s leading centers for education, research, and innovation.
History of Peking University
In 1912, after the establishment of the Republic of China, the university adopted its current name: Peking University.
Throughout the 20th century, the university became a major force in Chinese intellectual development, especially through its emphasis on:
* Patriotism
* Progress
* Democracy
* Science
* Academic innovation
The university’s educational philosophy has long encouraged students and scholars to pursue knowledge through diligence, precision, practical research, and creative thinking.
At the end of the 20th century, the Chinese government placed Peking University among the key institutions for developing world-class universities. In 2000, the university merged with Beijing Medical University, further strengthening its academic structure and expanding its medical disciplines.
Yan Yuan Campus – A Beautiful University Garden in Beijing
The main campus of Peking University is known as “Yan Yuan” (Garden of Yan). Covering approximately 2.74 million square meters (274 hectares), the campus is located near some of Beijing’s most famous cultural attractions, including:
* Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace)
* The Summer Palace
The campus combines traditional Chinese garden landscapes with historic academic buildings, creating one of the most beautiful university environments in China.
Among its most famous sights are:
* Weiming Lake
* Traditional pavilions
* Historic halls
* Classical gardens
* Ancient-style architecture
The peaceful scenery makes Peking University not only an academic institution but also a popular cultural destination for visitors interested in Chinese history and architecture.
Academic Excellence and Research Achievements
Peking University is a comprehensive national key university with outstanding achievements in education and scientific research.
The university has attracted many leading scholars, including members of:
* Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS)
* Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE)
* The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)
Peking University combines advanced research with the training of highly skilled professionals. It emphasizes both specialized knowledge and interdisciplinary cooperation, encouraging collaboration among different fields of study.
A Comprehensive University Covering Diverse Disciplines
Today, Peking University offers education and research across a wide range of academic areas, including:
* Basic sciences
* Applied sciences
* Social sciences
* Humanities
* Medicine
* Management
* Education
Through its broad academic structure and international influence, Peking University has become one of the most important centers for teaching, research, and innovation in China.
The university continues to pursue its goal of becoming one of the world’s leading universities while contributing to China’s scientific, cultural, and social development.
Why Visit Peking University?
For travelers interested in Chinese education, history, culture, and architecture, Peking University offers a unique experience beyond ordinary sightseeing.
A visit allows you to explore:
* A historic university founded in the late Qing Dynasty
* A beautiful traditional garden campus
* The birthplace of important intellectual movements
* The atmosphere of one of China’s most respected universities
Together with nearby Tsinghua University, the Summer Palace, and Yuanmingyuan, Peking University is an excellent cultural destination in northwest Beijing.