Summer Palace

Scenic spot

★ 4.8 (2K+ reviews) • 20K+ booked

Discover the enchanting allure of the Summer Palace in Beijing, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to China's imperial grandeur and exquisite landscape design. Conceived by the Qing emperor Qianlong, this imperial garden is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, seamlessly blending nature and architecture. The sprawling ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces offers a serene escape into a world of historical grandeur, where nature and architecture harmoniously create a masterpiece of aesthetic beauty. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the Summer Palace is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

19 Xinjiangongmen Rd, Haidian District, China, 100091

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4.8 /5

2K+ reviews

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LaiNa ****

1 Jul

My husband and I went to visit Jinghui for the first time and it was a great experience. The tour guide Wang Yanni was very patient and had rich tour guide experience. The explanation was very detailed and I learned a lot. Great!

Mon compte

29 Jun

Jimmy is an incredible and really attentive guide, as there is no French guide, I fell back on English which I don't speak well, he made sure to make me understand absolutely everything! on the other hand it is a very physical activity, it is the only downside with the visit of the hutongs where we don't really have time because it is the time of the lunch break, otherwise it was perfect especially when you have a short schedule to see everything, at least with this experience we saw quite a few places in 1 day

Arrat *********

27 Jun

A wonder experience in Beijing and must see and visit for anyone visiting the Capital city. My wife and her family had an amazing experience!

Lin *****

18 Jun

The tour guide, Xiao Cui, was very kind. She helped us arrange the car the day before. The explanation on the day was super good. She was the only one who brought a notebook. From time to time, she would take out photos to show us some scenes that we couldn't see or photos before the destruction. She would always pay attention to whether the group members were all present. She stood to explain when we were in the car, and she stood to explain when we were on the boat. When we sat down to rest at a certain place, she still stood to explain. She was really serious and dedicated. Thanks to her, we can understand the history of each place. Each place has a little story behind it. There are also some places that are not suitable for taking pictures at all, and which places? And which places can take the most beautiful pictures. We are really lucky to meet Xiao Cui to lead our group!

Peiyun ****

14 Jun

once in a lifetime experience.its like bringing me back in time...definitely would recommend this to anyone visiting Beijing.The food taste delicious

Nur *************************

12 Jun

Cassie was an amazing guide! She explained to us a lot about the history of great wall of china as well as the summer palace. We also requested for a halal lunch, which was accommodated. Zhang shifu was also an amazing driver. Will definitely recommend to engage in this service! Definitely recommend to go earlier (we set out at 7am) to have an empty view of the great wall of china!

Ben ****

8 Jun

Tour guide Xiao Cui is friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She is good at explaining local history, culture and lesser-known attractions. She has extensive experience in leading groups and can lead groups of all sizes to ensure that the itinerary is safe (Xiao Cui always emphasizes), interesting and memorable. Her time management and customer service are committed to creating an unforgettable travel experience for tourists. Highly recommended! 🙏👍😊

Suria ****************

8 Jun

I did the Beijing Yuxiandu Royal Cuisine Museum experience on my first day in Beijing, and it was the perfect way to start the trip! The show was absolutely wonderful, the dancers were beautiful, and it really helped that some parts of the story were translated into English so I could follow along better. I chose the vegetarian meal, and while most of the dishes were delicious, there was one that didn’t quite hit the mark. I do wish the chef had a wider variety of vegetarian options it felt a bit limited. That said, I didn’t set my expectations too high for the food, knowing that catering to dietary restrictions can be a challenge. Still, it’s a great experience overall, especially if you’re into culture and performance. If you have food limitations, just go in with an open mind and focus on enjoying the show. You will be fed, and the atmosphere makes it worth it.

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Kunming Lake

Welcome to Kunming Lake, the shimmering heart of the Summer Palace that covers an impressive three-quarters of the entire area. Inspired by the renowned West Lake in Hangzhou, this man-made wonder invites you to embark on a serene boat ride or simply bask in the scenic beauty of its tranquil waters and lush surroundings. Whether you're capturing the perfect photograph or enjoying a leisurely stroll along its shores, Kunming Lake promises a delightful escape into nature's embrace.

Longevity Hill

Discover the majestic Longevity Hill, a central gem of the Summer Palace that rises 60 meters high, offering a harmonious blend of history and nature. As you ascend, you'll be greeted by splendid halls and pavilions that showcase the architectural grandeur of imperial China. On the hill's tranquil backside, immerse yourself in the serene natural setting, where breathtaking views await at every turn. Longevity Hill is not just a sight to behold but an experience to cherish.

Seventeen-Arch Bridge

Step onto the iconic Seventeen-Arch Bridge, a masterpiece of design that elegantly connects the eastern shore of Kunming Lake to Nanhu Island. With its 17 graceful arches, this bridge is a photographer's dream and a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. As you walk across, take in the stunning vistas of the lake and the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Summer Palace.

Culture and History

The Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, combining natural beauty with architectural grandeur. It has served as an imperial garden since the Qing dynasty and played a significant role in Chinese history, including being a key site during the Second Opium War and the Boxer Rebellion. It is a symbol of Chinese civilization, showcasing the philosophy and practice of traditional garden design that has influenced oriental garden art and culture. The Summer Palace is also a symbol of the opulence and grandeur of the Qing Dynasty, reflecting the artistic and cultural achievements of imperial China.

Local Cuisine

While visiting the Summer Palace, indulge in Qing imperial cuisine at the Oriole-Listening Hall, where traditional dishes are served in a setting reminiscent of the palace's historical opulence.

Historical Integrity

Despite historical damages, the Summer Palace has been meticulously restored and preserved, maintaining its original design and authenticity.

Historical Landmarks

Key historical landmarks such as the Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake offer insights into the strategic and aesthetic planning of this imperial retreat.

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