The Summer Palace, located in the northwest suburbs of Beijing, is China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden, renowned as the "Museum of Royal Gardens". It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998.
Historical Evolution
- Construction: Initially built in 1750 (the 15th year of Qianlong's reign in Qing Dynasty).
- Historical Changes: Burned down by Anglo-French forces in 1860, rebuilt by Empress Dowager Cixi in 1888.
- Name Origin: Originally named "Garden of Clear Ripples", renamed "Summer Palace" during Guangxu's reign.
Garden Layout
- Area: About 293 hectares, with water covering three-quarters.
- Design Concept: Epitome of traditional Chinese gardening art, blending Jiangnan garden styles.
- Structure: Centered on Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, forming "hills and waters" integration.
Main Attractions
- Kunming Lake: 220-hectare artificial lake modeled after West Lake in Hangzhou.
- Long Corridor: 728-meter covered walkway with 14,000 paintings, a Guinness World Record.
- Tower of Buddhist Incense: Octagonal three-story pavilion, the landmark of Summer Palace.
- Marble Boat: 36-meter stone boat, masterpiece of Sino-Western architecture.
Architectural Features
- Palace Area: Centered on Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, Cixi's audience hall.
- Garden Area: Combines northern garden grandeur with southern garden delicacy.
- Religious Structures: Tibetan Buddhist complexes like Sea of Wisdom and Four Great Regions.
Cultural Value
- Artistic Achievement: Represents the pinnacle of Chinese classical garden art.
- Historical Witness: Important site of late-Qing politics and diplomacy.
- Scientific Value: Model of ancient water conservancy; Kunming Lake served flood control.
Visitor Information
- Opening Hours: Peak season (Apr 1-Oct 31) 6:30-18:00; Off-season 7:00-17:00.
- Ticket Price: 30 yuan (peak), 20 yuan (off-peak), 60 yuan combo ticket (includes gardens).
- Recommended Route: East Gate→Hall of Benevolence→Long Corridor→Tower of Buddhist Incense→Marble Boat→Seventeen-Arch Bridge→New Palace Gate.
Travel Tips
- Best Season: April-October for flowers; winter for ice activities.
- Special Experience: Boat ride on Kunming Lake to appreciate poetic scenery.
- Notice: Wear comfortable shoes for vast area; no graffiti on heritage.