On November 14, a significant seminar was held at the Yanjingtai of the Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park. The event focused on the planning and construction of the south central axis area and the future development of the Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park. The seminar, themed “Discussion on the South Central Axis and Joint Planning for Nansen Development”, aimed to address key planning and positioning for the south central axis area and the construction progress of Nansen Park to identify new avenues for future development contributing to Beijing’s green development.

More Than 6 Million Square Meters of Forest Wetlands

To Form the “Green Lung” of the South of the Capital

Prior to the meeting, the reporter accompanied the guests to the park in an electric vehicle. The air after the rainfall was notably fresh, with fallen leaves rustling in the breeze. Tourists were observed strolling among the trees, enjoying the benefits of the “natural oxygen bar”. From the vantage point of Yanjingtai, the south central axis and the vast autumnal scenery of Nanshan were in perfect harmony with the magnificent view of the Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park. The 6 million square meters of forest wetland were a spectacular sight. A cup of fragrant coffee, an interesting book, and a dazzling sunset made for an idyllic afternoon.

Han Bingyue, the project manager, then presented an overview of the park’s development, outlining its basic information and key construction objectives. The park’s construction is now nearing completion, and it has become a popular destination for relaxation and scenic views in the south part of Beijing. Additionally, it has gained recognition as a popular online check-in spot to enjoy Beijing skyline.

Experts and Scholars Offer Advice

To Support the Planning, Design, and Operation of Nanshen

From a single location to a broader perspective, Beijing’s initiatives to develop a forest city and a garden city have established a model for the harmonious integration of “people, city, industry, greenery and culture” in the construction of mega-cities worldwide.

Fengtai District, the first recipient of the practice and innovation base of “Green Water and Mountains Are Invaluable Assets” in a central city, has proposed the “Nine Methods for a Green City” for ecological and environmental construction. Specifically, Fengtai has implemented a series of concrete measures to improve and enhance the regional ecological environment, including the planting of trees around the city, the creation of greenways connecting the city, the construction of waterways running through the city, the creation of wetlands to moisturize the city, the development of parks, the preservation of farmland within the city, the planting of flowers and fruit to fill the city with fragrance, the designation of the city as a hub for biodiversity, and the beautification of the city’s landscape. This new vision for Fengtai has created a beautiful new picture of the district: “The eternal central axis bears ancient charm and blue veins and green corridors embrace the modern city.”

The opening of Yanjingtai in Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park has introduced a new landmark for citizens to enjoy and also served as a vibrant example of the “ecology, culture, and development” of the south central axis. Transforming the concept from a planning into a reality, it prompts in-depth thinking and discussion about the future development direction of the south central axis area. During the exchange and discussion, Professor LIU Jihua, deputy chief planner of the China Academy of Urban Planning & Design and general manager of Beijing Company, provided a comprehensive overview of planning for the south central axis area. Fengtai District is positioned as an “ecological axis, cultural axis, and development axis”, with the objective of continuing the glorious cultural achievements of the central axis. This will further enable the capital of a great country to expand its functions and lead the development and revitalization of the south city area.

The experts engaged in a spirited exchange of ideas regarding the construction and planning of the south central axis. The discussion covered a range of topics, including garden city construction, “Park +” construction, ecological governance demonstration zones, and international exchange venues. YANG Baojun, chairman of the Urban Planning Society of China, highlighted the pivotal role the south central axis plays in maintaining social, cultural, and spatial order. “Park construction is an elevated expression of the Chinese cultural concept of ‘zhonghe’. which encompasses a harmonious aesthetic. Therefore, it should be able to showcase an attractive and engaging lifestyle to become a destination that appeals to a broad audience.” Additionally, he believes that Nansen should leverage its distinctive geographical location and cultural resources to excel in “park +” construction, and he anticipates that the park will establish an essence area to serve as a venue for informal diplomatic interactions in Nansen. “The central axis is not only an axis for etiquette but also an axis for ecological and emotional connectivity,” said Professor WANG Kai, dean of the China Academy of Urban Planning & Design. He believes that a paradigm shift in the planning of Nansen is essential, with a focus on conceptual guidance.

Subsequently, experts provided valuable input on Nansen’s planning, design, and operations. LI Rusheng, chairman of the Chinese Society of Landscape Architecture, suggested that the park’s unique characteristics could be further developed through the protection of urban biodiversity, the comprehensive exploration of cultural value, and the integration of fashion and vitality. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing protection and operations to ensure the continued advancement of park construction. LI Zhong, deputy director of the Architectural Planning and Post-evaluation Committee of the Architectural Society of China, stated, “We should explore the historical resources and human stories of the Nanyuan area in depth and arrange attractions based on the principles of small attractions, densification, and walking distance to enhance the interest of the park.” ZHANG Jinshuo, researcher at the Institute of Zoology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and director of the National Zoological Museum, also stated, “In the future, scientific popularization commentary systems can be combined with technological means to provide more detailed explanations. Service facilities should be more interesting, artistic, and interactive from the start. We can drive consumption by experience to create Nansen’s unique natural living scene.” Professor SHI Xiaodong, chief planner of the Municipal Planning and Natural Resources Commission, believes that to effectively convey the story of the South Central Axis and Nansen, a comprehensive examination of the resources and assets within the region is essential. To ensure seamless integration, the construction of the park and surrounding facilities should be aligned with key milestones, and. a meticulous planning approach is crucial to allocate resources optimally. LI Xiong, Vice President of Beijing Forestry University, stated, “The future maintenance and management of Nansen Park and its construction should adhere to the scientific greening concept. Concurrently, continuous efforts should be made to protect urban biodiversity. Planting should be minimized to avoid landscaping in the urban park, and local ground covers should be used to reproduce the historical garden style of natural charm.”

Optimizing Park Management Measures

To Create a “Boundaryless Natural Park”

The term “boundaryless” is used to describe the removal of traditional physical boundaries and the elimination of a physical barrier fence. This integration allows for seamless access to the green space, encouraging public movement between the green park and the urban environment. During the seminar, experts discussed the development and management upgrades of Nansen, with a focus on the advantages and management problems of the “boundaryless nature park”.

Nansen has been actively exploring the concept of “boundaryless nature park”. However, this openness also presents significant challenges for park management. Experts recommend that park management office should enhance guidance and education for tourists and investigate more scientific and reasonable management measures, such as establishing dedicated activity areas for pets, to achieve a balance between management and service.

Fengtai District will consider the valuable input of experts and facilitate the planning and construction of the South Central Axis and Nansen areas. Fengtai District will build Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park as a practice base for knowledge sharing, urban-park integration, and garden city development, and transform the South Central Axis area into a new urban district with environmentally sustainable and liveable environment, cultural prosperity, and thriving economy. (Correspondent: SHEN Guihong; Trainee Reporter: JIANG Huan)