Boats cruise Longtan Park's lake on the June 6th Dragon Boat Festival. [Photo: CRIENGLISH.com]

A curious crowd watches a vendor create clay doll at Longtan Park on June 6, 2011. [Photo: CRIENGLISH.com]

Dragons are one of the most well-known symbols of Chinese culture. In Beijing's Longtan Park, translated in English as "Dragon Pool Park," dragons are a constant but understated theme.

Located 1.5 kilometers east of the Temple of Heaven, Longtan Park is surprisingly young given its location. The park was constructed in 1952 as a salute to the ancient Chinese symbol of the dragon; dragons are designed into many of the park's aspects.

The park's proximity to Beijing's busy Central Business District and to other tourist attractions like the Temple of Heaven makes it a popular stop for tourists and locals alike. Despite the rainy weather on the Dragon Boat Festival (June 6), the lake was filled with rental boats.

Covering almost 50 hectares, only 19 of which are water, Longtan Park has ample green space for an afternoon stroll. Traditional style pavilions, including the namesake Dragon Pavilion, surround the lake, and several small islets are connected by old-style arched pedestrian bridges. Boat rentals are available at several docks around the park.

Elsewhere, visitors can find the Dragon Temple and the park's restaurant features a dragon-shaped dining boat for special guests.