Overview
What to Expect
Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) is China’s largest and best-preserved imperial garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, and one of Beijing’s top 5A-level scenic spots. Originally built in the Qing Dynasty as a summer resort for emperors and empresses, it covers 290 hectares (three-quarters of which is Kunming Lake). The palace blends traditional Chinese garden design with natural scenery, featuring key attractions: the Long Corridor (728-meter covered walkway with 14,000+ painted scenes), Longevity Hill (with the Tower of Buddhist Incense at its peak), Kunming Lake (where visitors can take dragon boats), and the Marble Boat (a symbolic imperial structure). It’s a perfect combination of imperial history, Chinese architecture, and natural beauty, attracting over 15 million visitors annually – especially popular with international tourists for its UNESCO status and photogenic landscapes.
UNESCO World Heritage Site – China's largest imperial garden, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design
Iconic Long Corridor (728m) – world's longest covered walkway with 14,000+ traditional painted scenes
Scenic Kunming Lake – take dragon boat rides, visit Seventeen-Arch Bridge, and enjoy lake views from Longevity Hill
Rich imperial history – learn about Qing Dynasty emperors/empresses (e.g., Empress Dowager Cixi) via English guides
Easy access from city center (30 mins by subway) – perfect for combining with Tiananmen/Forbidden City tours
Things to Do
- Walk the Long Corridor – spot famous painted scenes (e.g., “Journey to the West”) and learn their stories via English audio guides
- Take a dragon boat ride on Kunming Lake – 1-hour tours with English commentary, passing Seventeen-Arch Bridge
- Climb Longevity Hill to the Tower of Buddhist Incense – panoramic views of the palace and Beijing skyline (best at sunrise)
- Explore Suzhou Street – reconstructed Qing Dynasty market with traditional shops selling handicrafts and snacks
- Join a guided tour (English available) – learn about imperial life, garden design principles, and Empress Dowager Cixi’s history
Suggested Itinerary
- Morning – East Gate Entry & Long Corridor
Enter via East Gate (main entrance), visit the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity (emperor’s reception hall). Walk along the 728-meter Long Corridor – admire the 14,000+ painted scenes of Chinese history and mythology. - Midday – Longevity Hill & Panoramic Views
Climb Longevity Hill to the Tower of Buddhist Incense (elevator available for seniors) – enjoy panoramic views of Kunming Lake and Beijing skyline. Have lunch at the palace restaurant (try imperial-style dishes like “kung pao chicken”). - Afternoon – Kunming Lake & Marble Boat
Take a dragon boat ride on Kunming Lake (1 hour, English-speaking boat staff) to see the Seventeen-Arch Bridge. Visit the Marble Boat (symbol of imperial power) and Suzhou Street (reconstructed Qing Dynasty shopping street). Exit via North Gate or West Gate.
How to Get to Summer Palace
- Subway (Recommended): Take Line 4 to “Xiyuan Station” (Exit D) – 5-min walk to East Gate (main entrance). Or Line 15 to “Summer Palace East Gate Station” (Exit A). Subway ¥3-4, 30 mins from Tiananmen.
- Taxi/Didi: 30 mins from Tiananmen Square (¥40-60), 40 mins from Beijing Capital Airport (¥100-150). Ask for “Yiheyuan Dongmen” (Summer Palace East Gate).
- Bus: Take bus No. 697, 718, or 特5 to “Summer Palace East Gate Stop” – 10-min walk to entrance. Bus ¥2.
- Tour Combination: Most Beijing city tours combine Summer Palace with Forbidden City/Tiananmen – book full-day English tours for seamless travel.
Travel Tips
- Tickets: Peak season (Apr-Oct): ¥60 (garden + main buildings); off-season (Nov-Mar): ¥40. Buy online in advance (WeChat “Summer Palace” official account) or at the gate (English ticket windows).
- Best time to visit: 8:30-10:00 AM (fewer crowds); late afternoon (16:00-17:00) for golden light on Kunming Lake. Avoid weekends if possible.
- English services: Audio guides (¥40) available at East Gate; English-speaking guides for hire (¥200-300 for 2-3 hours). Key attractions have English signage.
- Comfort tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes – the palace is large (290 hectares). Rent a golf cart (¥300/hour) for elderly/children. Bring water and snacks (allowed in most areas).
- Boat rides: Dragon boat tickets (¥60/person) – book early on weekends. Private boats (¥200/hour) available for small groups.
FAQ
How long does it take to visit the Summer Palace?
Most visitors spend 3-4 hours (half day) for key attractions. For in-depth exploration (including all buildings and boat rides), allow a full day.
Is the Summer Palace accessible for wheelchairs/strollers?
Yes, the East Gate has ramps, and most main paths are wheelchair-friendly. Wheelchair rental is available at East Gate (¥50/day, deposit required).
Can I take photos inside the Summer Palace?
Yes, photography is allowed in most areas. The best photo spots are: Long Corridor (morning light), Kunming Lake (sunset), and Tower of Buddhist Incense (panoramic views).
Are there English-speaking guides available?
Yes, you can hire English-speaking guides at the East Gate information desk (¥200-300 for 2-3 hours) or book in advance via travel platforms like Trip.com. Group guided tours in English are also available.
Popular China Travel Guide
Travel By Month
Recommended Trips
How It Works
Step 1: Send Us Your China Trip Ideas
Fill in the inquiry form below and tell us what kind of journey you want. Family trip, private tour, nature, culture — we customize everything.
Step 2: Plan Your Tour With an Expert
Your dedicated travel specialist will refine the itinerary, adjust the pace, and help you choose the best destinations, hotels, and experiences.
Step 3: Confirm & Book With Confidence
Review the final itinerary and secure your China tour through our protected booking and payment system.
Ready to Plan Your Summer Palace Tour?
Tell us your travel dates, group size, and interests — we’ll tailor a route just for you.
