Introduction:

The Summer Palace, located in Haidian District, Beijing, is one of the largest and most well-preserved imperial gardens in China. Initially constructed during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, it served as a royal retreat and place of leisure. Renowned for its magnificent architecture, expansive lakes, and exquisite garden landscapes, it is considered a masterpiece of Chinese classical gardens and is listed as a World Cultural Heritage site. Key attractions within the garden include the Wanshou Mountain, Kunming Lake, the Long Corridor, and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge.

Advantages:

  • Exemplary Imperial Garden: The Summer Palace is an outstanding example of Qing Dynasty imperial gardens, blending ancient Chinese garden art with natural beauty.
  • Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage: As a summer retreat for Qing emperors, the Summer Palace has witnessed the rise and fall of the Qing Dynasty, holding profound historical and cultural value.
  • Beautiful Scenery: The garden offers stunning views of lakes and mountains, particularly the combination of Kunming Lake and Wanshou Mountain, making it an ideal spot for tours and photography.
  • World Cultural Heritage: The Summer Palace was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998, attracting numerous visitors from home and abroad.

Ticket Prices:

  • Off-Peak Season (November 1 – March 31):
    • Park Entrance: 20 RMB per person
    • Combined Ticket (including the Foxiang Pavilion, Dehe Garden, Wenchang Courtyard, Suzhou Street): 50 RMB per person
  • Peak Season (April 1 – October 31):
    • Park Entrance: 30 RMB per person
    • Combined Ticket (including the Foxiang Pavilion, Dehe Garden, Wenchang Courtyard, Suzhou Street): 60 RMB per person

Opening Hours:

  • Park Opening Hours:
    • Peak Season: 06:30-18:00
    • Off-Peak Season: 07:00-17:00
  • Scenic Area Opening Hours:
    • Peak Season: 08:30-17:00
    • Off-Peak Season: 09:00-16:00

Preferential Policies:

  • Children: Children under 1.2 meters in height are admitted free.
  • Seniors: Seniors over 60 years old can enjoy discounted tickets with a valid ID.
  • Students: Students with a valid student ID can purchase tickets at a discounted rate.
  • People with Disabilities: Visitors with a disability certificate can enter the park for free.

Transportation:

  • Subway:

    • Take Subway Line 4 to Beigongmen Station, and walk to the entrance of the Summer Palace at Beigongmen.

  • Bus:

    • Take buses 303, 331, 332, 346, 508, and get off at the Summer Palace Beigongmen Station.
    • Take buses 469, 539, and get off at the Summer Palace New Palace Gate Station.

  • Taxi:

    • Use DiDi or other ride-hailing apps to search for "颐和园" for a quick arrival.

      Tips:

      The Summer Palace is expansive, so visitors are advised to plan their routes wisely, carry water and sun protection, especially when touring the Kunming Lake area in summer. The garden offers different scenery throughout the year; autumn is the best time for chrysanthemum viewing, while winter allows for the appreciation of the icy beauty of Kunming Lake.