![[Beijing] The story of the Summer Palace told by an expert (morning/afternoon)](https://image.kkday.com/v2/image/get/c_fill%2Ch_800%2Cq_55%2Ct_webp%2Cw_1240/s1.kkday.com/product_285963/20250520063748_BGr2J/jpg)
![[Beijing] The story of the Summer Palace told by an expert (morning/afternoon)](https://image.kkday.com/v2/image/get/c_fill%2Ch_400%2Cq_55%2Ct_webp%2Cw_500/s1.kkday.com/product_285963/20250520063758_c5vXr/jpg)
![[Beijing] The story of the Summer Palace told by an expert (morning/afternoon)](https://image.kkday.com/v2/image/get/c_fill%2Ch_400%2Cq_55%2Ct_webp%2Cw_500/s1.kkday.com/product_285963/20250520064131_eYzZA/jpg)
![[Beijing] The story of the Summer Palace told by an expert (morning/afternoon)](https://image.kkday.com/v2/image/get/c_fill%2Ch_400%2Cq_55%2Ct_webp%2Cw_500/s1.kkday.com/product_285963/20250520063818_DgPhz/jpg)
![[Beijing] The story of the Summer Palace told by an expert (morning/afternoon)](https://image.kkday.com/v2/image/get/c_fill%2Ch_400%2Cq_55%2Ct_webp%2Cw_500/s1.kkday.com/product_285963/20250520063754_G216n/jpg)
[Beijing] The story of the Summer Palace told by an expert (morning/afternoon)
- The Summer Palace, first built by Emperor Qianlong under the name of 'Qingshuiyuan', began as a symbol of the emperor's utmost filial piety, but was destroyed by the Anglo-French Allied Forces in 1860.
- This imperial garden was rebuilt in 1887 by Prince Chun, who loved his son (Emperor Guangxu), and was renamed 'Yihuayuan' by Empress Dowager Cixi, and has remained so to this day.
- This garden, created by a mother's utmost filial piety and her deep love for her son, tells a heartbreaking story that ultimately leads to the son's death.
- It is one of the five gardens of the Qing Dynasty that have permeated modern and contemporary Chinese history.
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Minimum participant requirement | 4 travelers |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Sightseeing type | Historic site tour |
| Transport | Walking |
Product Info
No other dynasty in China created so many imperial gardens outside the palace. Only the Qing Empire created, cultivated, and lived in as many as five imperial gardens.
why?
The Yihwawon begins with this fundamental part. To understand the Yihwawon, the history of the northern peoples is an inseparable element.
The five imperial gardens, including the Summer Palace, are the result of the history of the northern peoples that took up a significant portion of Chinese history. The next thing to consider is who built them and why.
The English name of Yihwawon is "SUMMER PALACE." The invasion of China by Western powers in 1900 gave rise to their own interpretations that focused only on the visible situations rather than reading the original meaning of the East.
Not only the Forbidden City but also the Forbidden City has a false name.
The second question is what the function of the building was.
The Summer Palace was built by Emperor Qianlong, not Empress Dowager Cixi. It was also called Qingshuiyuan. After it was completely destroyed by the Anglo-French allied forces, it was rebuilt by Prince Chun, the father of Emperor Guangxu.
Why did he rebuild this place?
And what kind of connection does Empress Dowager Cixi have that has made her the subject of gossip for so long?
By Prince Sunchin, 'Cheongsuwon' was given a new name, 'Ihwawon'.
The story of Ihwawon is very similar to our story. It unfolds similarly to the story of King Jeongjo and the situation at the end of the Joseon Dynasty.
Introduction to Ewhawon
Description
Purchase Notice
Departure for 4 or more people
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 3 day(s) before the departure date
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Admission tickets will not be included for travelers under the age of 6 and are required to be purchased on-site
FAQ
1. What makes the Summer Palace a unique historical and cultural site?
The Summer Palace is unique as a masterpiece of Chinese imperial garden design, blending natural landscapes with artificial features. It holds a rich history, initially built by Emperor Qianlong, then tragically destroyed and later rebuilt by Empress Dowager Cixi. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its intricate architecture, including the Long Corridor and Marble Boat, and embodies a poignant narrative of dynastic power, filial piety, and personal tragedy, making it a living testament to Qing Dynasty history.
2. What unique experiences can visitors expect at the Summer Palace with an expert guide?
With an expert guide at the Summer Palace, visitors gain deeper insights into its history, architecture, and cultural significance. The guide brings to life the stories of emperors and empresses, such as Empress Dowager Cixi and Emperor Guangxu, explaining the symbolism behind its intricate designs and structures. This enhances the appreciation of the imperial gardens, allowing you to uncover hidden narratives and understand the profound historical events that shaped this magnificent site, far beyond a typical visit.
3. How much time should one allocate for a comprehensive visit to the Summer Palace?
To comprehensively explore the Summer Palace, it is generally recommended to allocate at least 3 to 4 hours. This allows sufficient time to visit key areas like the Longevity Hill, Kunming Lake, the Long Corridor, and various halls and temples without feeling rushed. A guided tour often covers these highlights within a focused half-day period, ensuring you experience its most significant features and understand their context.
4. What historical events and stories are associated with the Summer Palace?
The Summer Palace has witnessed pivotal historical events. Originally built by Emperor Qianlong as 'Qingshuiyuan', it was tragically destroyed by the Anglo-French Allied Forces in 1860. It was later meticulously rebuilt by Empress Dowager Cixi, who renamed it 'Yihuayuan', primarily to honor Emperor Guangxu, showcasing her profound love and filial piety. This era also marked a period of immense political intrigue, culminating in a heartbreaking story tied to the fate of the Qing Dynasty's last rulers, making it a site of both grandeur and sorrow.
5. How can one book a guided tour to explore the Summer Palace?
You can easily book a guided tour for the Summer Palace through KKday. Booking via KKday offers convenience, providing a curated experience with an expert local guide who will narrate the rich history and cultural significance of the imperial gardens. This ensures a seamless entry and an insightful exploration, allowing you to focus purely on enjoying the magnificent site and its profound stories without the hassle of planning logistics or navigating independently.
6. When is the best time of year to visit the Summer Palace for ideal weather and scenery?
The best times to visit the Summer Palace are generally spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, Beijing experiences pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and beautiful natural scenery. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming flowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage, creating picturesque views of Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter is cold, though a snowy landscape can offer a unique charm.
7. What are the recommended public transportation options, particularly by metro, to reach the Summer Palace?
To reach the Summer Palace by metro, take Line 4 to Beigongmen Station (北宫门站), which is near the North Palace Gate. Alternatively, you can take Line 16 to Xiyuan Station (西苑站) or Line 10 to Bagou Station (巴沟站), then transfer to a local bus or taxi for a short distance to other palace gates. These metro lines offer direct access or convenient connections from various parts of Beijing, making public transit an efficient way to arrive.
8. What is the most convenient way to travel from the Temple of Heaven to the Summer Palace?
The most convenient way to travel from the Temple of Heaven to the Summer Palace is by metro. From Tiantan Dongmen (天坛东门) Station near the Temple of Heaven (Line 5), take Line 5 northward to Dongdan (东单) Station. Transfer to Line 1 and head west to Xidan (西单) Station, then transfer to Line 4 northbound towards Anheqiao North, exiting at Beigongmen (北宫门) Station. This route involves two transfers but efficiently connects these two major Beijing attractions.
