The Summer Palace, or Yiheyuan, is one of Beijing’s most iconic and breathtaking historical sites, renowned for its stunning gardens, serene lake, and imperial architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former imperial retreat offers visitors a glimpse into China’s Qing Dynasty while providing a tranquil escape from the bustling capital. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply seeking natural beauty, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to the Summer Palace.
Travel Guide to The Summer Palace
Why Visit the Summer Palace?
Spanning over 700 acres, the Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design, blending pavilions, temples, bridges, and Kunming Lake into a harmonious whole. Built in 1750 as a summer retreat for emperors, it was later expanded by Empress Dowager Cixi in the 19th century. Key highlights include the Long Corridor, the Marble Boat, and Suzhou Street, each offering unique insights into imperial life and Chinese aesthetics. The site’s beauty peaks in spring and autumn, but its charm endures year-round.
How to Get There
The Summer Palace is located in northwest Beijing, about 15 km from the city center. Here are the main transportation options:
By Metro: Take Line 4 to Beigongmen Station (North Palace Gate, Exit D) for direct access to the main entrance. Alternatively, Xiyuan Station (Exit C2) is a 10-minute walk to the East Palace Gate. Cost: Approximately ¥3–5 (depending on your starting point). Travel time: About 30–40 minutes from central Beijing (e.g., Tiananmen Square).
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Didi): A taxi from central Beijing (e.g., Wangfujing) costs around ¥40–60, depending on traffic. Travel time: 30–50 minutes.
By Bus: Public buses like 332, 346, or 394 stop near the Summer Palace. Check routes via apps like Baidu Maps or Google Maps. Cost: ¥1–2.
By Tour: Many Beijing tour companies offer half-day trips to the Summer Palace, often combined with other sites like the Forbidden City. Prices range from $30–$100 per person, including transport and a guide.
Tip: Arrive early (ideally by 8:00 AM) to avoid crowds, especially during weekends or holidays like National Day (October 1–7).
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May): Blooming flowers and mild weather make this ideal for exploring the gardens.
Autumn (September–October): Crisp air and vibrant foliage enhance the scenic beauty.
Summer (June–August): Lush but crowded and hot (up to 35°C); bring sunscreen and water.
Winter (November–March): Quieter with a serene, frosty charm, but dress warmly (temperatures can drop below 0°C).
Avoid Peak Holidays: Chinese New Year (late January/early February) and National Day see heavy crowds.
Admission and Tickets
Entrance Fee: Low Season (November 1–March 31): ¥20 (basic ticket), ¥50 (combo ticket including all paid attractions). High Season (April 1–October 31): ¥30 (basic ticket), ¥60 (combo ticket). Combo tickets cover additional sites like the Garden of Virtue and Harmony, Wenchang Gallery, and Suzhou Street.
Purchase: Buy tickets at the entrance or online via platforms like Trip.com or Ctrip to skip lines.
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM–6:00 PM (high season); 7:00 AM–5:00 PM (low season). Last entry is one hour before closing.
Tip: The combo ticket is worth it if you plan to explore the paid attractions, which offer deeper cultural insights.
What to See and Do
Kunming Lake: Occupying three-quarters of the site, this serene lake offers stunning views and boating opportunities. Rent a pedal boat or electric boat (¥40–100 per hour) to explore the water or relax by the shore. Don’t miss the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, a picturesque 150-meter bridge connecting the lake’s eastern shore to South Lake Island.
Long Corridor: This 728-meter covered walkway is adorned with over 14,000 colorful paintings depicting Chinese myths, history, and landscapes. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll while staying shaded.
Marble Boat (Stone Boat): A whimsical structure built by Empress Dowager Cixi, this “boat” is made of stone and wood, symbolizing the Qing Dynasty’s extravagance. It’s a great spot for photos.
Hall of Benevolence and Longevity: The main ceremonial hall where emperors conducted state affairs. Admire its intricate throne and courtyard, framed by ancient trees.
Suzhou Street: A recreated Qing Dynasty market street along a canal, featuring shops and tea houses. It’s part of the combo ticket and offers a glimpse into historical commerce.
Tower of Buddhist Incense: Perched on Longevity Hill, this octagonal tower offers panoramic views of the lake and gardens. The climb is steep but rewarding—perfect for sunset vistas.
Garden of Virtue and Harmony: A beautifully preserved theater complex where Cixi watched Peking opera. The stage and pavilions are architectural gems (combo ticket required).
Suggested Itinerary (3–4 hours): Enter via Beigongmen → Visit Hall of Benevolence and Longevity → Stroll the Long Corridor → Explore Suzhou Street → Climb to Tower of Buddhist Incense → Walk to Marble Boat → Cross Seventeen-Arch Bridge → Exit via East Palace Gate or take a boat across Kunming Lake.
Practical Tips
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes (the site is large and hilly). Water and snacks (food options inside are limited and pricey). Sunscreen, hat, or umbrella for summer; warm layers for winter. A camera or smartphone for photos—the scenery is spectacular.
Dining: On-site restaurants near the Long Corridor serve basic Chinese dishes (¥30–50 per meal). For better options, eat in Beijing city before or after your visit (e.g., Haidian District).
Accessibility: The Summer Palace has some wheelchair-accessible paths near the lake, but Longevity Hill and certain pavilions involve stairs. Contact the site in advance for assistance.
Language: English signage is limited, so download a translation app (e.g., Pleco) or hire a guide for deeper insights.
Crowd Management: Stick to less crowded areas like Suzhou Street or South Lake Island if the main paths are busy.
Nearby Attractions
Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan): A hauntingly beautiful ruin 2 km away, showcasing Qing Dynasty history (¥10 entry).
Tsinghua University: A 10-minute drive away, its campus is a blend of modern and traditional architecture.
Beijing Botanical Garden: 8 km west, perfect for nature lovers (¥10 entry).
Final Thoughts
The Summer Palace is a captivating blend of history, art, and nature, offering a peaceful retreat from Beijing’s urban energy. From the shimmering waters of Kunming Lake to the intricate details of the Long Corridor, every corner tells a story of imperial grandeur. Plan for at least half a day, wear comfortable shoes, and let the beauty of this UNESCO gem unfold at your own pace.
Happy exploring!
