Overview
The Summer Palace, known as Yiheyuan in Chinese, is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces in Beijing. It was an imperial garden in the Qing Dynasty and is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design. The natural landscape of hills and open water is combined with artificial features such as pavilions, halls, palaces, temples, and bridges to form a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value.
Dominated by Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, it covers an expanse of 2.9 square kilometers, three-quarters of which is water. The palace complex was inscribed on the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1998.
Key Attractions
Kunming Lake
A vast lake covering about 75% of the park area, offering boat rides and beautiful views.
Long Corridor
A 728-meter-long covered walkway decorated with over 14,000 paintings.
Tower of Buddhist Incense
The iconic octagonal tower on Longevity Hill, offering panoramic views.
Seventeen-Arch Bridge
A magnificent 150-meter bridge connecting the eastern shore to Nanhu Island.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
April - October: 6:30 - 18:00
November - March: 7:00 - 17:00
Admission Fees
Peak Season (April - October): ¥60
Off Season (November - March): ¥50
Boat Ride: ¥40-80
Getting There
Subway: Line 4 to Beigongmen Station
Bus: Lines 303, 330, 331, 346, 374, 437, 952
Visitor Tips
- Plan at least half a day for your visit
- Consider taking a boat ride on Kunming Lake
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring water and snacks
- Consider hiring a guide for historical context
- Visit the Garden of Virtue and Harmony if you're interested in royal theater
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May)
Beautiful blossoms and comfortable temperatures
RecommendedSummer (June-August)
Lush gardens and lotus flowers in bloom
Peak SeasonAutumn (September-November)
Pleasant weather and fall colors
RecommendedWinter (December-February)
Snow scenes and frozen lake
Unique ExperiencePhotography Tips
Best Photo Spots
- Seventeen-Arch Bridge at sunset
- Long Corridor's painted beams
- Tower of Buddhist Incense reflection in the lake
- Marble Boat from the lake shore
Seasonal Highlights
- Spring: Cherry and peach blossoms
- Summer: Lotus flowers on Kunming Lake
- Autumn: Red maple leaves
- Winter: Snow-covered pavilions