Summer Palace, Beijing: Stroll Through the Qing Dynasty’s Imperial Garden Retreat

Claim to Fame

Commissioned by Emperor Qianlong in 1750 and restored after destruction, the Summer Palace—Yíhéhúan—is the largest and most complete imperial garden in China, spanning 290 ha with 3,000+ buildings over hills, lakes, pavilions and corridors. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 for its masterful blend of natural and architectural beauty.

📌 Navigating Summer Palace in Beijing : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Admission Fee: The admission fee varies depending on the season and whether you choose to enter specific areas or attractions.
How Long to Visit: A typical visit lasts around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the pace and interest in exploring the various sites.
Washrooms: Washrooms are available throughout the grounds for visitor convenience.
Hours of Operation: The Summer Palace is open from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours during summer months.
Important Information: It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and check the weather forecast, as much of the experience is outdoors.
Handicap Accessible: The Summer Palace is partially handicap accessible, with some pathways and attractions accommodating wheelchairs.
Pets: Pets are not allowed within the Summer Palace to maintain the site's cleanliness and tranquility.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, providing in-depth insights into the history and significance of the palace.
Restaurant or Cafe: There are several restaurants and cafes within the grounds, offering a range of dining options.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is located on-site, featuring souvenirs, local crafts, and memorabilia related to the Summer Palace.
Parking: Parking is available at designated areas near the entrance of the Summer Palace.
Family Friendly: The site is family friendly, offering spacious grounds and attractions suitable for children.
Photography: Photography is permitted throughout the Summer Palace, with numerous scenic spots perfect for capturing memories.
WIFI: Free Wi-Fi is not available on the premises, so visitors should prepare for limited connectivity.
Picnic Area: Picnic areas are available in designated spots, allowing visitors to enjoy meals amidst the beautiful scenery.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Summer Palace in Beijing

Set in northwest Beijing's Haidian District, the Summer Palace was built as a summer retreat and water management system. Anchored by Longevity Hill and man‑made Kunming Lake, its design mirrors traditional Chinese landscape philosophy—harmonizing hills, water, and architecture.

What to Expect

Explore the 728 m Long Corridor richly adorned with over 14,000 paintings, the Marble Boat lakeside pavilion, the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, and the Tower of Buddhist Incense atop Longevity Hill. Suzhou-style Suzhou Street, lotus ponds, ornate bridges, and teahouses create immersive cultural scenes along the lake’s shore.

Background & Cultural Context

Initially named Qingyiyuan (“Gardens of Clear Ripples”), it was extensively rebuilt by Empress Dowager Cixi in 1888 using naval funds. Though damaged during the Opium Wars and Boxer Rebellion, it was restored and converted to a public park in 1912, later gaining national protection status.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (Sept–Oct) offer ideal weather and eye‑catching scenery—blossoms or foliage matched by comfortable temperatures. Winter brings picturesque snowscapes, while summer showcases lotus blooms despite heat and humidity. Mornings provide cooler light and lighter crowds.

How to Get There

Located ~15 km northwest of central Beijing, reached via Beigongmen or Xiyuan stations on Subway Line 4. Allow 3–4 hours to explore. Entry costs CNY 30–40 depending on season. Cable‑boats and paddle‑boat rentals are available on Kunming Lake.

Photo Opportunities

Wide‑angle views of Longevity Hill rising above Kunming Lake
Misty morning shots along the Long Corridor with painted ceilings
The Marble Boat reflecting at sunrise or sunset
Ornate details of bridge arches and pavilions with lake reflections
Autumn foliage or winter snow against temple rooftops

Travel Tips

Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy soft light by the lake.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring hills and long corridors.
Bring water, sun protection, and optionally rent a boat to cross the lake.
Use an audio guide or hire a local guide to unpack the symbolism in architecture and landscape design.
Combine with a visit to nearby Fragrant Hills Park or Ming Tombs on a full‑day outing.

FAQs

Is it wheelchair-friendly?
Partially—lakefront paths are flat, but areas around Longevity Hill involve stairs and slopes.

Can I rent a boat?
Yes—row and pedal boats are available on Kunming Lake; public cable‑boats link across the water.

Are audio guides available?
Yes—available in multiple languages or via guided group tours for deeper context.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Palace is a living masterpiece—where imperial design, water engineering, and mountain vistas coexist in harmony. A careful stroll through its grounds unpacks centuries of Qing dynasty grandeur and leaves a lasting impression of scenic and cultural elegance.

Things To Do near Summer Palace in Beijing

Forbidden City in Beijing

The Distance from Summer Palace in Beijing to Forbidden City in Beijing is 22.5 Kilometer(s) / 14 Mile(s)

📘 Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: China follows China Standard Time (UTC +8) across the entire country, despite spanning five geographical time zones.

Weather: China has a vast range of climates due to its size. Northern regions experience cold, dry winters and hot summers, while southern areas are more subtropical with high humidity and rainfall. Major cities like Beijing have distinct seasons with hot summers and freezing winters.

Population: China has a population of over 1.4 billion people, making it the most populous country in the world. Major cities include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu.

Size: China spans about 9.6 million square kilometers (3.7 million square miles), making it the fourth-largest country by area. Its terrain ranges from deserts and mountains to fertile river basins and dense urban centers.

Language: The official language is Mandarin Chinese (Putonghua). Regional dialects such as Cantonese, Shanghainese, and Hokkien are also spoken. English is limited but increasing in major cities.

Currency: The currency used in China is the Renminbi (RMB), with the primary unit being the Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and stores, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used.

Safety: China is generally safe for travelers, though petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Visitors should follow local laws strictly, as enforcement can be strict.

Tipping: Tipping is not traditionally expected in China, though it is becoming more common in tourist services, high-end restaurants, and for tour guides.

Electricity and Plugs: Electricity in China is 220V, 50Hz. Plug types A, C, and I are used. Travelers should bring an adapter and possibly a converter for their devices.

Water: Tap water is not safe to drink in most parts of China. Bottled water is widely available and recommended for drinking and brushing teeth.

Annual Visitors: China receives around 30 million international visitors annually. Top attractions include the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, and scenic areas like Guilin and Zhangjiajie.

Visa Requirements: Most travelers need a visa to enter China, which must be obtained in advance. A valid passport with at least six months validity is required. Visa-free entry is allowed in certain cities for short transit stays.

Health & Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations are recommended, including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis for long stays. Air pollution can be an issue in major cities.

Transportation: China has an extensive high-speed rail network and efficient metro systems in major cities. Taxis, buses, and ride-hailing apps are also widely used.

Food: Chinese cuisine varies by region and includes dishes like Peking duck, Sichuan hotpot, dim sum, and dumplings. Street food is popular but should be chosen carefully.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Respect for elders and hierarchy is important in Chinese culture. Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful of traditions when visiting temples or homes.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is common in hotels and restaurants but often requires SMS verification. Many global websites and apps are blocked; a VPN is recommended for unrestricted internet access.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is essential for visiting China. It should cover medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations, especially in rural or remote areas with limited services.

Did You Know? - Facts About Summer Palace in Beijing

The Kunming Lake, which forms a central feature of the Summer Palace, was artificially created and is roughly 2.2 square kilometers in size. It is designed to reflect the natural beauty of West Lake in Hangzhou, capturing the spirit of classical Chinese aesthetics.

The Summer Palace, known as "Yiheyuan" in Chinese, covers an area of approximately 2.9 square kilometers (1.1 square miles), making it one of the largest and most well-preserved royal gardens in the world. Its layout harmoniously integrates natural landscapes with man-made structures, showcasing the essence of traditional Chinese garden design.

The Long Corridor, a covered walkway that stretches over 728 meters, is adorned with more than 14,000 colorful paintings depicting scenes from Chinese legends, historical events, and nature. This corridor offers visitors a scenic and artistic journey while protecting them from the elements.

The Summer Palace has a rich history dating back to the Jin dynasty (1115-1234), but it was extensively rebuilt and expanded in the 18th century during the Qing dynasty under Emperor Qianlong. It served as a royal retreat for emperors and their families, particularly during the hot summer months.

In 1998, the Summer Palace was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural significance and the masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. Its blend of beautiful architecture, scenic views, and rich history attracts millions of visitors each year, making it a key cultural symbol of Beijing.