Nestled in the northeastern corner of Hebei Province, approximately 225 kilometers (140 miles) from Beijing, the Chengde Mountain Resort—also known as the Imperial Summer Palace—is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most remarkable historical treasures. Built between 1703 and 1792 during the Qing Dynasty, this sprawling complex served as a summer retreat for emperors seeking respite from Beijing’s scorching heat. With its blend of imperial palaces, serene gardens, and surrounding temples, the resort offers a captivating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s your ultimate travel guide to exploring this majestic destination.
A Travel Guide to Chengde Mountain Resort
Why Visit Chengde Mountain Resort?
The Chengde Mountain Resort is the largest surviving imperial garden in China, covering 5.64 million square meters—twice the size of Beijing’s Summer Palace and Forbidden City combined. Enclosed by a 10-kilometer-long wall, it features a harmonious blend of palace architecture, lakes, plains, and forested hills, reflecting the diversity of China’s landscapes. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the resort was a political hub where emperors like Kangxi and Qianlong conducted state affairs and hosted dignitaries from across the empire. Paired with the nearby Eight Outer Temples, it’s a window into the Qing Dynasty’s grandeur and multiculturalism.
How to Get There
From Beijing:
By Train: High-speed trains depart from Beijing Railway Station or Beijing East Railway Station, taking about 1–1.5 hours to reach Chengde South Station. Tickets range from ¥50–¥100 ($7–$14 USD). Slower trains (4–5 hours) are also available for a lower cost (around ¥40).
By Bus: Frequent buses leave from Beijing’s Liuliqiao, Dongzhimen, or Sihui Bus Stations, taking 2.5–4 hours depending on traffic. Fares are approximately ¥70 ($10 USD).
By Car: A scenic 3–4-hour drive via the Jingcheng Expressway offers flexibility for those renting a vehicle.
From Chengde:
The resort is centrally located in Chengde’s Shuangqiao District, about 3 kilometers from downtown. Take local buses (No. 5, 7, 11, or 15) or a taxi (¥10–¥20) to the main entrance.
Best Time to Visit
Season: April to October is ideal, with mild temperatures (averaging 20–30°C in summer) and lush scenery. Summer (June–August) is peak season due to the resort’s cool climate, while autumn (September–October) offers vibrant foliage. Winter visits (December–March) are less recommended as the landscape loses its charm, and some areas may be closed.
Weather Tip: The area has a temperate continental monsoon climate with significant day-night temperature swings, so bring layers.
What to Do
The resort is divided into four main areas: the Palace Area, Lake Area, Plain Area, and Mountain Area. Here’s how to explore them:
Palace Area (Southern Section):
This is where emperors lived and worked. Key highlights include the Main Palace (now the Mountain Resort Museum), showcasing Qing artifacts like porcelain and imperial robes, and the Yanbozhishuang Hall, where emperors Kangxi and Qianlong spent their summers. The architecture mirrors the Forbidden City’s elegance but with a simpler, more relaxed style.
Entry: Included in the resort ticket (¥120 in peak season, ¥90 off-season).
Lake Area:
Featuring eight interconnected lakes (e.g., Cheng Lake, Ruyi Lake), this area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or boat ride. The Shuixin Pavilions, built on a bridge, offer poetic views of lotus flowers and rippling water. The Rehe Spring, a warm spring feeding the lakes, is a natural marvel.
Boat Rental: ¥50–¥80 per person.
Plain Area:
North of the lakes, this open space was used for horse racing and hunting. Today, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy grasslands reminiscent of Inner Mongolia. The Wenjin Pavilion, a replica of a famous Jiangsu library, adds a scholarly touch.
Mountain Area (Northwest):
Covering 80% of the resort, this rugged terrain features forested valleys and peaks. Wander through trails to discover pavilions like the Yongyou Pagoda, a 70-meter-tall stone structure from 1751. Cable cars are available for panoramic views (¥40–¥60).
Eight Outer Temples:
Just beyond the resort’s walls, these temples reflect the Qing’s multi-ethnic empire. Must-visits include:
Putuo Zongcheng Temple (“Little Potala Palace”), modeled after Tibet’s Potala Palace.
Puning Temple, home to the world’s tallest wooden Bodhisattva statue (22 meters).
Entry: ¥80 for a combined ticket to key temples, or ¥40–¥50 individually.
Nearby Attractions:
Qingchui Peak National Park (3 km east) features a striking rock formation and wildflower-covered hills.
Jinshanling Great Wall (1–2 hours by bus) offers a less crowded Great Wall experience.
Practical Tips
Tickets: ¥120 (April 1–October 31), ¥90 (November 1–March 31). A combo ticket with select Outer Temples costs around ¥150–¥200.
Hours: 8:00 AM–5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
Getting Around: Electric carts (¥40–¥50) or bikes (¥20/hour) are available for rent inside the resort. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Duration: Allocate 4–6 hours for the resort and an extra day if visiting the temples or Great Wall.
Where to Stay
Downtown Chengde: Budget options like 7 Days Inn (¥150–¥200/night) or mid-range Chengde Hotel (¥300–¥400/night) are convenient.
Luxury: Chengde Imperial Mountain Resort Hotel (Qi Wang Lou), within the resort grounds, offers an authentic imperial experience (¥500–¥800/night).
Hostels: Ming’s Dynasty Hostel (if still operational) provides affordable dorms (¥100–¥150/night).
What to Eat
Local Specialties: Try Pubang deer meat kebabs (¥4–¥5 each), a nod to the area’s hunting history, or donkey-rolling rolls, a sticky rice dessert.
Dining: Restaurants near the resort on Nanyingzi Street offer affordable meals (¥30–¥50 per person). For a sit-down experience, U.B.C. Coffee provides Western options.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat for summer.
A light jacket for cooler evenings.
A reusable water bottle—vendors are available but pricey.
Cash, as some smaller vendors may not accept cards.
Final Thoughts
The Chengde Mountain Resort is more than a historical site—it’s a testament to the Qing Dynasty’s vision of harmony between nature and power. Whether you’re marveling at the palaces, paddling across serene lakes, or exploring the culturally rich Outer Temples, this destination offers a refreshing escape from urban life. Pair it with a Beijing trip for a perfect blend of China’s imperial past and present. Pack your curiosity and step into the emperors’ summer haven—you won’t be disappointed!
