Originally the backyard garden of Governor Hedao's residence during the Qing Dynasty, Qingyan Garden can be defined as a classical Chinese garden. After the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the garden was gradually expanded to envelop both Huanyi Villa and Xiguan Lord Temple nearby. In 1983, the municipal people's government set up a specific fund for a large-scale restoration and named it Qingyan Garden, which means "clear river, peaceful sea". The garden used to be called Chengnan Park, meaning South City Park.
Today, Qingyan Garden is recently renovated. Upon entering the gate, visitors will notice the new rockery, and sitting beside it is the Jiayuan Hall and Imperial Stele Pavilion, which includes steles for the emperors Kangxi, Qianlong and Daoguang, in memory of all of their great achievements. On the western side is a shining lotus pool surrounded by lush green trees, and in the middle of the pool stands the Zhan Pavilion. To the north of the pool lies the Hefang Academy, with its original style and features still intact. Boats are also available for those visitors who would like to venture out on the lake.
Near the stone arch bridge is Rambling Rose Garden, where blooming roses and the orange osmanthus run rampant, their sweet fragrance penetrating every corner of the garden. To the west of the river stands an artificial yellow stone hill, decorated with verdant trees and red flowers. In this area there is also a newly opened Leaf Garden, which was designed to be a memorial to marshal Ye Ting. The newly finished construction imitates the typical structure of classical Chinese gardens.
