One of the landmarks of the English Garden is the Chinese Tower in Munich. It burned down completely during the Second World War, but was reconstructed and reopened in 1952. Inside the building there is a spiral staircase that connects the floors. The landmark also includes the beer garden at the Chinese Tower.
Landmark in the English Garden
History of the Chinese Tower Munich
The Chinese Tower was built between 1789 and 1790, similar to a pagoda. It was made of wood and is around 25 meters high. It was intended as a viewing platform for the opening of the English Garden. At that time, the trees were probably not as tall as they are today, where they tower over the tower and have rendered its function as a viewing platform obsolete.
Today, only the brass bands of the beer garden are allowed to play on the ageing building. But it’s still pretty to look at!
In the Biedermeier period, there was the so-called “Chinese Inn”, which had a bowling alley, a dance floor and five pavilions with matching curved roofs. The serving of beer also began at this time. There were also concerts and dance music.
Beer garden at the Chinese Tower
Today, the Chinese Tower is an attraction in its own right, but the beer garden at the Chinese Tower is the number one place to go, especially in summer.
Nostalgic horse-drawn carriage ride
At the Chinese Tower, you can also take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage around the southern section of the English Garden. The coachmen traditionally wear top hats and vests. You have to dodge the horse droppings from time to time on the skin paths.
Getting to the Chinese Tower – how to get there
The bus stop is located directly opposite the parking lot of the beer garden at the Chinese Tower. Also access via U3/U6 Giselastraße, bus 54/58/68/154 or streetcar 18.
You can find more information about the history of the Chinese Tower on Wikipedia.
Nearby and further information: Kocherlball at the China Tower, Rumfordschlössl, Schäfflertanz, Christmas market at the Chinese Tower