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Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is the palace and garden of the emperors of the Qing Dynasty. It incorporates the design techniques of Jiangnan gardens. It is based on Kunming Lake and Wanshou Mountain. It is a large-scale and well-preserved royal garden with beautiful scenery and many precious cultural relics. There are the famous Zhiyu Bridge and Suzhou Street, a trading street, where you can experience the trading culture of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The Summer Palace was included in the World Heritage List in 1998 and became a world cultural heritage in my country.
Highlights
World Heritage、Imperial Garden、Kunming Lake、Longevity Hill
Suggested Duration
2–3 hours
Location
Beijing・Haidian
Getting There
Walk from Beigongmen Stn
Top things to do in Summer Palace
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Summer Palace travel FAQs and useful info
What makes the Summer Palace so special?
The Summer Palace is special because it masterfully combines a natural landscape of hills and open water with meticulously crafted artificial features like pavilions, halls, palaces, temples, and bridges, creating a harmonious ensemble of outstanding aesthetic value.
How much time should I allocate for a visit to the Summer Palace?
To fully explore and enjoy the Summer Palace, it typically takes about 2 to 3 hours of walking around the grounds.
Is the Summer Palace in Beijing worth visiting?
Absolutely, the Summer Palace is considered a marvel of Chinese garden design and is one of Beijing's must-see attractions. Its beautifully restored structures seem to rise enchantingly from the waters of Kunming Lake.
What is the historical significance of the Summer Palace?
Originally constructed in 1750 during the Qing Dynasty by Emperor Qianlong, the Summer Palace served as a retreat from the summer heat, showcasing imperial grandeur and landscape artistry.
How far is the Summer Palace from Beijing's city center?
The Summer Palace is located in the Haidian District of Beijing, approximately 20 kilometers or about 12 miles away from the city center, making it a convenient excursion from areas like the Forbidden City.
