Summer Palace – Beijing:

Description: The Summer Palace, known as Yiheyuan in Chinese, is a magnificent imperial garden located in the northwestern outskirts of Beijing, China. It is one of the most famous and well-preserved imperial gardens in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Summer Palace served as a summer retreat for Chinese emperors during the Qing Dynasty, offering them respite from the scorching heat of Beijing’s summers. Today, it stands as a remarkable symbol of China’s ancient architectural and horticultural excellence.

Visitor Fee: As of my last update in September 2021, there is an entrance fee to visit the Summer Palace. The fee varies depending on the season, with higher fees during peak seasons (April to October) and lower fees during the off-peak months. Additionally, some specific attractions within the Summer Palace, such as the Tower of Buddhist Incense or the Wenchang Gallery, may have separate fees for entry. It’s advisable to check for the latest ticket prices and availability before your visit.

Transportation: To reach the Summer Palace in Beijing, you can:

1. By Subway: Take Line 4 (light blue line) and alight at the Beigongmen (North Palace Gate) Station. The main entrance to the Summer Palace is just a short walk from the subway station.
2. By Bus: Several bus routes connect different parts of Beijing to the Summer Palace.

Things to Do:

1. Kunming Lake Boat Ride: Enjoy a boat ride on the picturesque Kunming Lake, offering views of the Longevity Hill and other palace structures.
2. Long Corridor: Stroll along the Long Corridor, a covered walkway with intricate paintings along its length, spanning more than 700 meters.
3. Climb Longevity Hill: Climb to the top of Longevity Hill, where you can visit the Tower of Buddhist Incense and enjoy panoramic views of the Summer Palace grounds.
4. Explore Pavilions and Temples: Visit various pavilions, halls, and temples within the palace complex, each reflecting Chinese architectural styles and offering historical insights.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

• Historical and Cultural Significance: The Summer Palace is a living testament to China’s imperial history, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of Chinese emperors and their opulent summer retreat.
• Scenic Beauty: The palace’s exquisite gardens, serene Kunming Lake, and elegant architecture create a tranquil and visually captivating environment.
• Long Corridor: The Long Corridor, with its beautiful paintings and decorative motifs, provides a unique and immersive cultural experience.
• Boat Ride: Taking a boat ride on Kunming Lake allows visitors to enjoy the palace’s scenic beauty from a different perspective.

Age of the Place: The construction of the Summer Palace began in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty and was completed in 1764. However, the palace has undergone extensive renovations and expansions over the centuries, particularly during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the late 18th century.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

• Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan): The ruins of the Old Summer Palace, located nearby, are a poignant reminder of China’s turbulent history during the Opium Wars in the 19th century.
• Fragrant Hills Park: A picturesque park known for its beautiful autumn foliage and hiking trails, located a short distance from the Summer Palace.

List of Activities:

1. Exploring the gardens, pavilions, and halls of the Summer Palace.
2. Taking a boat ride on Kunming Lake to enjoy the scenic beauty.
3. Strolling along the Long Corridor and admiring the intricate paintings.
4. Climbing Longevity Hill and visiting the Tower of Buddhist Incense for panoramic views.
5. Learning about China’s imperial history and cultural heritage.
6. Visiting the nearby attractions of the Old Summer Palace and Fragrant Hills Park for a well-rounded Beijing experience.
7. Capturing photographs of the picturesque landscapes and historic architecture.