Summer Palace(Qingyi Garden)

When planning a Beijing itinerary, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Temple of Heaven are usually the first on the list. However, the Summer Palace (颐和园) is often left for "if there's time." In my opinion, that is a huge mistake. It is one of those places in Beijing where you don't just want to see the sights, snap a photo, and move on; you actually want to spend several hours just wandering around. Huge lakes, old willows by the water, Chinese pavilions, stone bridges, hills, ducks, and locals taking leisurely strolls along the shore. The vibe is completely different compared to central Beijing. 🌿 What exactly is the Summer Palace? It is a former imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty. The complex centers around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, surrounded by palaces, temples, pavilions, bridges, and long walking paths. The park is truly massive. That’s why it’s better not to swing by for "an hour on the way" but to set aside at least 2–3 hours. If you want to calmly cover most of the grounds, you could easily spend half a day here. 🌉 This is where you'll find those iconic Chinese bridges One of the most famous is the Seventeen-Arch Bridge (十七孔桥). This long stone bridge with 17 arches connects the shore to an island on Kunming Lake. But I actually liked the smaller bridges and pavilions in the quieter parts of the park even more. For example, the Jade Belt Bridge (玉带桥)—a high stone bridge with a nearly perfect arch. If you stray a bit further from the main paths, the crowds thin out significantly, and in some spots, it feels like a peaceful, ordinary Chinese garden. 🦆 The atmosphere here is the main reason to visit You can walk along the water under the willows, admire the old pavilions, sit by the lake, and watch the birds. There are many ducks on the water, including beautiful Mandarin ducks. All around is traditional Chinese architecture and mountains shrouded in a light haze. That’s why I remember the Summer Palace not for one specific sight, but for its overall atmosphere. 🏯 What to see inside: · Kunming Lake · Seventeen-Arch Bridge · Jade Belt Bridge · Long Corridor — a long covered gallery along the lake · Longevity Hill · Tower of Buddhist Incense · Pavilions and bridges along the western part of the lake But I wouldn't try to rush through a checklist here. Better to just pick a direction and simply wander. 🚇 How to get there The easiest way is the metro. You can take Line 4 to Beigongmen Station and enter through the North Gate. The park itself isn't right in the center of Beijing, so it takes some time to get there, but it’s absolutely worth it. 💰 Entrance A basic ticket costs approximately: · 30 RMB during high season · 20 RMB during low season Some palaces and internal sites may require a separate fee. 📍 Summer Palace / 颐和园, Beijing ⏱ Allow at least 2–3 hours 🚇 Metro Line 4 — Beigongmen 🌿 It’s best not to rush and to head further away from the most popular routes If you’ve spent several days in Beijing visiting temples, squares, palaces, and crowds, I’d definitely come here just to slow down a bit. For me, it’s one of the most pleasant places in Beijing. And it's a case where the park turned out to be much more interesting than I expected. 🇨🇳

The Summer Palace stands out as one of my absolute favorite destinations in Beijing. 🇨🇳 It’s a breathtaking site, filled with traditional Chinese architecture, elegant pavilions, arched bridges, and a vast lake, all framed by lush greenery. I vividly remember how distinct it felt compared to the bustling energy of downtown Beijing. Naturally, it was quite crowded. As a premier attraction, that’s to be expected. However, the crowds didn't detract from the experience at all. The grounds are so expansive that you can wander and discover your own private vistas. Often, it’s just a matter of turning a corner, walking a bit further, or shifting your perspective to find a stunning, crowd-free shot. Photography here was a joy. The blend of classical structures, water, trees, and distant mountains offered endless compositions. I found myself pausing every few minutes, captivated by yet another view I had to capture. What resonated with me most was that even at such a famous landmark, you can still find those quiet, personal moments. You don't need a completely empty space to appreciate beauty or snap a great photo. For me, the Summer Palace was a place to wander aimlessly and without haste. There was always something new to look at, and I loved seeing how the scenery changed as we moved around the grounds. If you're planning a visit but are worried about the crowds, don't let that deter you. Take your time, explore the side paths, and find your own angle. You’ll be surprised by how many beautiful views you can find. ✨ To me, that’s the essence of travel. You don't necessarily need to be alone to enjoy a place; you just need to find your own way of seeing it. ❤️

🏯 Summer Palace, Beijing If there's one place that perfectly captures the beauty of imperial China, it's the Summer Palace. I entered through BeiruYi Gate and followed a route that felt like walking through a traditional Chinese painting. Every turn revealed a different scene—ancient pavilions, lotus-filled lakes, elegant corridors, and mountain views reflected on the water. My favorite part wasn't a single landmark, but the journey itself. ✨ Route: BeiruYi Gate → Tower of Buddhist Incense → Long Corridor → Marble Boat → Hall of Benevolence and Longevity → Bronze Ox → Seventeen-Arch Bridge → Nanhu Island → Xinjian Palace Gate Along the way, I passed peaceful temples hidden among the hills, centuries-old architecture, and some of the most photogenic lake views in Beijing. 🌿 Must-See Highlights 📍 Tower of Buddhist Incense The iconic symbol of the Summer Palace. Climb up for breathtaking views over Kunming Lake and the entire royal garden. 📍 Long Corridor One of the longest painted corridors in the world. Every beam and panel tells a story from Chinese history and folklore. 📍 Marble Boat A unique lakeside structure that became one of the most recognizable landmarks of the palace grounds. 📍 Seventeen-Arch Bridge The perfect photo spot, especially during golden hour when the arches reflect beautifully on the water. 📍 Nanhu Island A peaceful escape surrounded by lake views, ideal for slowing down and enjoying the scenery. 🍪 Hidden Food Finds Inside the Palace ✨ Shang Shang Qian Cookies The famous "fortune cookies" inspired by traditional Chinese fortune sticks. Each cookie contains a different message, making it both a snack and a fun experience. The rich milk flavor is surprisingly good. ✨ Yuanmeng Sesame Pastry A local favorite said to be inspired by snacks loved by Empress Dowager Cixi. Crispy outside, flavorful inside, and one of the best quick bites in the park. 💡 Travel Tips · Enter from BeiruYi Gate and exit via Xinjian Palace Gate for the most efficient sightseeing route. · Allow around 2.5–3 hours for a relaxed visit. · Wear comfortable shoes—the palace is much larger than it looks. · Visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds. · Spring lotus season and autumn foliage are especially magical. Standing beside Kunming Lake, with willow trees swaying in the breeze and ancient palaces reflected on the water, it's easy to understand why emperors once escaped here from the city. The Summer Palace isn't just a park. It's Beijing's most beautiful postcard brought to life. 🇨🇳✨ 📍 Summer Palace, Beijing 🎫 Admission: RMB 30 | Combo Ticket: RMB 60 🚇 Beigongmen Station (Line 4) → BeiruYi Gate 🚇 Xiyuan Station (Line 4/16) → Xinjian Palace Gate ⏰ Summer: 6:00–20:00 | Winter: 6:30–19:00 #beijing #travel #travel2026 #tripmoments

Located in the Haidian District of Beijing, the Summer Palace is hailed as the pinnacle of Chinese classical garden art, perfectly blending imperial grandeur with natural splendor. With its mountains, waters, and distinct seasons, you can truly experience the majesty and elegance of the former royal grounds—whether you are rowing on Kunming Lake, gazing out from the Tower of Buddhist Incense, or admiring the vibrant murals of the Long Corridor. Easily accessible, it is a perfect destination for sightseeing all year round. Recommended Route & Must-Do Activities: 1. Enter via the New Palace Gate. We recommend starting with a stroll through the Long Corridor. Spanning 728 meters, its vivid murals depict hundreds of ancient legends and are well worth a slow walk for appreciation and photography. 2. Next, head to the Tower of Buddhist Incense (Foxiang Ge), the highest point in the park. The summit offers a breathtaking panorama of northwest Beijing and Kunming Lake—a truly stunning and essential photo spot. 3. After descending the stone steps to the lakeside, we suggest taking a boat ride. The open water provides an excellent vantage point of the Seventeen-Arch Bridge and Longevity Hill, making it ideal for both photography and relaxation. 4. Finally, walk along the lakeside path through the East Causeway. The view of the Cloud-Dispelling Hall complex across the water blends hills and lake into a poetic, seamless scene. Must-Visit Spots: · Long Corridor Murals: Famous for their intricate detail, these paintings are incredibly photogenic; · Tower of Buddhist Incense (Top Floor): A powerful vantage point overlooking the entire park and the city; · Kunming Lake Boat Ride: Picturesque reflections of the mountains and water; · The Marble Boat and Seventeen-Arch Bridge: Iconic landmarks of the Summer Palace. Travel Tips: 1. Arrive right at opening to avoid crowds and capture the best photos; 2. Spring, summer, and autumn are ideal for boating, while the frozen lake in winter has its own unique charm; 3. Benches are available along the Long Corridor, so you can enjoy the art at your own pace; 4. The climb to the Tower of Buddhist Incense involves many stairs; visitors with limited mobility should take note; 5. The Summer Palace has multiple entrances; choose the one most convenient for your planned route. Important Notes: · The Tower of Buddhist Incense requires a separate ticket (108 RMB). Hours: Apr–Oct (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM), Nov–Mar (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM). Closed on Mondays. Please note the last entry time; · General admission to the Summer Palace is 37 RMB. Opening hours: Apr–Oct (6:00 AM – 8:00 PM), Nov–Mar (6:30 AM – 7:00 PM); · Expect a lot of walking; wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks.

The Summer Palace was the favorite retreat of emperors, built exclusively for leisure and relaxation. It stands as a magnificent masterpiece of classic Eastern landscape architecture. Its sheer scale, architectural brilliance, exquisite design, and natural beauty are truly unmatched anywhere else in the world. Here, natural scenery and man-made elegance blend seamlessly into one. The summer estate features an extraordinary art gallery in the form of the Long Corridor. The beams and crossbars are adorned with over 14,000 intricate paintings 😍 crafted by Chinese artists. Strolling along this covered walkway also treats you to breathtaking views of the promenade and the little boats moored along the shores of the man-made lake. Back in 1860, Beijing was invaded by Anglo-French forces, leaving much of the Summer Palace and its imperial gardens in ruins. It was later rebuilt thanks to Empress Dowager Cixi. A fiercely ambitious woman who ruthlessly climbed her way to the top by stepping on others, she undeniably had a profound appreciation for beauty 💁🏻‍♀️. Because restoring the palace required a colossal amount of money during incredibly tough times for everyone, few supported the Empress's vision. So, under the guise of funding the naval fleet, Cixi siphoned off the lion's share of the budget for the palace by falsifying receipts and invoices. Another incredible highlight of the Summer Palace is the 17-Arch Bridge—quite possibly the most beautiful bridge in the world 😍. Flanking both sides of the bridge are 500 sculpted stone lions. According to ancient Chinese beliefs, these lions serve as guardians of sacred structures and symbolize power, prosperity, royal authority, and imperial might. If you’re on the fence about going, it is absolutely worth a visit!!! 🌸 Tips for your visit: ⭐️ It’s best to get there early in the morning to beat the crowds. ⭐️ Bring some water and maybe even a quick snack. You can sit in the art gallery and enjoy a peaceful bite, just like the locals do. ⭐️ Make sure to bring cash or a card, as there are plenty of gift shops around the grounds where you can pick up some souvenirs. ⭐️ At the exit's gift shop, there’s a little corner where you can stamp your notebook—perfect for travelers who collect commemorative stamps. ⭐️ You’ll find plenty of local photographers around who can snap a nice picture of you for just 5 RMB a shot 🤗. ⭐️ Definitely stick around for sunset. When the sun dips into the lake, painting everything in shades of gold, the place feels absolutely magical 😍. 📍 Address: Haidian District, Beijing Postal code: 100091 ⏰ Hours of operation: 06:00 AM - 08:00 PM

To be honest, autumn in Haidian is legendary. The ginkgo trees, red leaves, and ancient architecture create an incredible atmosphere. However, after a few missteps, I realized that if you come to Haidian for autumn foliage in October–November without doing your homework, you're likely to have a rough time. I've put together a four-day itinerary, so if you're planning a trip, save this guide. 🌤 Local climate In October, daytime temperatures in Haidian are comfortable, around 15–22°C, with soft sunlight that's perfect for photos. There's a big temperature difference between morning and evening, and it gets quite chilly when the wind picks up at dusk. By November, temperatures drop sharply, and there are often strong winds. Leaves fall rapidly; it's mostly sunny but the air is dry 🥶. It gets very cold if you stay outdoors on windy days, so be sure to bring a windbreaker. ✨ Recommended attractions The Summer Palace is absolutely the gold standard for autumn foliage in Haidian. The red leaves on the West Causeway, golden willow trees against the lake, and ancient bridges paired with colorful foliage make every photo look like a masterpiece. The Old Summer Palace offers a tranquil autumn scene; the ginkgo avenue and reed marshes are less crowded and have a great atmosphere. You must visit the ancient ginkgo trees at Dajue Temple—the thousand-year-old trees are covered in golden leaves, and the red walls set against the yellow foliage create a perfect traditional vibe. Also, the China National Botanical Garden has a rich variety of red leaves and is easy to walk around, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. 📅 Four-day itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Haidian. Spend the afternoon at the China National Botanical Garden to enjoy the red leaves, then head to a nearby food street for dinner to get into the rhythm of the city. Day 2: Spend the whole day at the Summer Palace. I recommend entering through the North Palace Gate and walking along the West Causeway to avoid the crowds. Stay until dusk to watch the sunset over the lake—the autumn scenery is stunning. Day 3: In the morning, head to Dajue Temple to see the thousand-year-old ginkgo trees. In the afternoon, visit the Old Summer Palace, walk along the ginkgo avenue, and see the reeds and ruined bridges to soak in the quiet autumn mood. Day 4: In the morning, you can visit the area outside Tsinghua University or Peking University for photos and browse the nearby creative shops before heading home in the afternoon. 💡 Travel tips 1. Popular autumn foliage spots are extremely crowded. The Summer Palace and Dajue Temple are packed on weekends, so try to visit on weekdays and arrive early 🥾. 2. Dress in layers. It's warm during the day but very cold on windy evenings. Bring a hat and scarf, and wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking in the parks. 3. The attractions are not close to each other. Prioritize taking the subway. Parking is limited, and traffic jams around the Summer Palace and Dajue Temple are severe on weekends. 4. Dajue Temple is in the mountains, where temperatures are a few degrees lower than in the city and it's windier, so bring an extra jacket. Please stay quiet inside the temple and do not step on the lawns. 5. It's recommended to book tickets for the Old Summer Palace and the Summer Palace online in advance to save time waiting in line. Bring a water bottle, as prices inside the scenic areas are high. 6. There is a limited window for viewing ginkgo and red leaves. Check the real-time foliage conditions before you go; if you arrive a few days late, the leaves might have already been blown off by the wind. 🍁 Summary Haidian's autumn scenery is truly irreplaceable. The red walls, ancient architecture, and golden ginkgo trees are a unique romance of autumn in Beijing. However, with strong winds and weekend crowds in October–November, you'll end up tired and crowded if you don't plan well. This four-day itinerary is paced comfortably and covers the core autumn foliage spots in Haidian. As long as you avoid the weekend peak, time your visit for the best foliage period, and prepare for the wind, you'll be able to experience the most beautiful autumn in Haidian without any unnecessary trouble.

Hidden gems revealed! A collection of 9 magical parks in Beijing ✨ a local’s secret list Having lived in Beijing for over a year, the greatest comfort has been visiting the city’s many parks. With a camera in hand, I wander aimlessly, enjoying the breeze and watching the light and shadows, leaving all worries to the greenery. Here are 9 treasured parks I keep returning to, with plenty of free spots—perfect for weekend inspiration! 🌿 Rending Lake Park A European vintage-style park with fountains and sculptures that create a great atmosphere. You don’t need to travel abroad to capture exotic shots. Open all day for free. 🌿 Jiangfu Park The green wilderness and railway tracks make for stunning photos, especially paired with the nearby Langyuan Station, adding a strong artistic vibe. 🌿 Purple Bamboo Park & Shuangxiu Park Purple Bamboo Park is known as Beijing’s little Jiangnan, full of poetic bamboo groves and lotus ponds. Shuangxiu Park is a rare Japanese-style garden with a 0.2 yuan admission, perfect for shooting new Chinese-style scenes. 🌿 Olympic Forest Park, Beixiaohe Park, Grand Canal Forest Park A year-round sea of flowers, lawns, and lotus ponds. Picnic, bike, and flower watch all in one place. 🌿 Beihai Park & Summer Palace Classic royal gardens! Beihai’s White Pagoda holds countless memories, and the Summer Palace hides top-tier Eastern classical garden aesthetics, breathtaking at sunset. Most parks are free to enter. Escape the city noise during your free time, retreat into the greenery, and experience Beijing’s unique gentleness.

🌟New landmark for Beijing night views! Every snap is a star photo for your social circle! Recently discovered a stunning free 🆓 check-in spot—the Tongqing Street Lantern Festival next to the Summer Palace 🎉 Take advantage of the ongoing Spring Festival atmosphere and plan your visit now! Here’s a super detailed guide for you! 👇 📍 **Address** Tongqing Street (next to the East Palace Gate of the Summer Palace) The lantern festival is near the Summer Palace, so you can walk here right after visiting the palace—super convenient! 🚗 **Transportation Guide** 1️⃣ Subway (Recommended!) · Take Line 4 to Xiyuan Station, exit C2, then about a 5-minute walk to Tongqing Street. · Take Line 16 to Wanquanheqiao Station, exit A, then about a 10-minute walk. 2️⃣ Bus · Take buses 331, 332, 584, or 563 to *Summer Palace East Palace Gate Station*, get off right at Tongqing Street. 3️⃣ Driving and Parking · If driving, it’s recommended to park at the *Longfor Star Joy Plaza underground parking lot*, which has plenty of spaces and is close to the lantern festival. · Roads are open recently, but please don’t stand in the middle of the street to take photos—safety first 🚦 🎡 **Lantern Festival Highlights** 1️⃣ Traditional Lanterns · The whole street is decorated with various lanterns, including traditional palace lanterns, zodiac lanterns, and super cute cartoon lanterns—perfect for photos! 📸 · When lit up at night, the street glows with colorful lights, creating an amazing atmosphere! 2️⃣ Ancient Style Market · On both sides of the festival, there’s an ancient-style market where you can buy handmade crafts, snacks, and New Year goods—stroll and snack for a happiness overload! 🍡 3️⃣ Interactive Photo Spots · There are many photo spots on the street, every snap looks like a masterpiece! 🕒 **Best Time to Visit** · Recommended to arrive around 5 PM to capture both daytime views and the night lights—get two styles in one visit! · The festival lasts until about 9 PM, but it’s better to go earlier when it’s less crowded and easier to take photos! 💡 **Tips** 📌 Roads are open recently, so be sure to stay safe and don’t stand in the middle of the street when taking photos! 📌 Dress warmly! It gets windy at night, so keeping warm is important! 📌 Bring a small fill light for better night photos! 📌 There are many restaurants at Longfor Star Joy Plaza nearby, so you can grab a late-night snack after the festival. Quickly invite your besties and family to check it out! The lantern festival lasts until the Lantern Festival, so don’t miss out—let’s go! 🏃‍♀️

Autumn in Beijing is fleeting but profoundly beautiful. For a few magical weeks, the imperial gardens are bathed in gold, mountain forests ignite in crimson, and ancient ruins are blanketed under carpets of ginkgo leaves. Bookmark this guide for your visit in late October or early November. 🏯 1. SUMMER PALACE — LAKES, PAVILIONS & GOLDEN CANOPIES Best time: Late October to mid-November The Summer Palace feels especially tranquil in autumn, when warm-hued foliage surrounds Kunming Lake and the historic pavilions. Stroll through the Long Corridor, explore the Garden of Harmonious Interests, and find a quiet spot by the Back Lake. Arrive early for calm reflections, softer light, and fewer crowds. 🍂 2. FRAGRANT HILLS — BEIJING’S ICONIC RED LEAVES Best time: Mid-to-late October through early November Fragrant Hills is the quintessential destination to experience Beijing’s fiery autumn transformation. You can hike through the forest or take the cable car up and walk back down. The middle route offers a gentler climb, while the steeper paths reward you with sweeping mountain views. Visit on a weekday if possible—the park becomes extremely busy during peak foliage season. 💛 3. YUANMINGYUAN — THE GOLDEN GINKGO CORRIDOR Best time: Late October to early November Inside the Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park, a grand avenue of mature ginkgo trees turns brilliant gold every autumn. Follow the path toward the Western Buildings ruins, where fallen leaves, weathered stonework, and afternoon sunlight create one of Beijing’s most atmospheric seasonal walks. Go during the final two hours before sunset for warm backlighting through the trees. AUTUMN TRAVEL TIPS · Foliage colors depend on the weather, so check recent local photos before visiting. · Start early, especially at Fragrant Hills during peak season. · Wear layers—Beijing mornings can be crisp even when afternoons are warm. · Bring comfortable shoes for stone paths and mountain steps. · Carry the passport or ID used for ticket reservations. · Public transportation is usually more efficient than driving on busy autumn weekends. SEASONAL TREATS TO TRY 🌰 Roasted chestnuts 🍡 Tanghulu 🍵 Hot jasmine tea 🥟 Fresh Beijing-style dumplings Beijing’s autumn doesn’t last long. But when the red walls, golden leaves, and clear blue skies come together, the entire city feels like a masterpiece. Which autumn view would you choose first: the royal gardens, the red mountains, or the golden ginkgo avenue?

The Summer Palace has always been on my bucket list because I wanted to see one of Beijing’s most beautiful imperial gardens in person. I’m drawn to the peaceful lakes, traditional Chinese architecture, beautiful pavilions and the feeling of history that surrounds the whole place. I imagine spending the day slowly walking along the lake, exploring the gardens and taking in the scenery without rushing. Some destinations are on my bucket list simply because I want to experience their beauty with my own eyes. And Summer Palace is definitely one of them. ✨ #SummerPalace #Beijing #ChinaTravel #ChineseArchitecture #ExploreChina #TravelInspiration #bucketlistdestinations

Step into the Summer Palace to truly understand the romance of Chinese imperial gardens The Long Corridor stretches for over 700 meters, winding ahead with countless stories hidden in every painted frame The Seventeen-Arch Bridge spans the azure waves reflecting upon the lake The weeping willows on the West Causeway sway in the breeze recreating the grace of a southern water town Capturing the scenery of the south, a thousand miles away all within this single garden The wind passes through pavilions and towers skimming over the shimmering lake A century of time flows slowly by A garden of mountains and waters is half a lifetime of days gone by

Bought tickets to the Summer Palace on Trip.com for our very first visit, and it made for a truly memorable outing! From start to finish, everything went smoothly with the ticketing process, and we felt well-prepared for our adventure. The highlight of our day was the guided tour. Our guide was knowledgeable and took his time explaining the rich history and beautiful architecture, making every corner come alive with stories. We enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the grounds, discovering hidden gems throughout the imperial gardens. The guide made sure to point out fascinating details we might have missed on our own. A big plus was how engaging the experience was, even for the kids—keeping their attention can be a challenge! The guide involved them in the tour, sharing interesting facts and ensuring everyone was included, which made the visit extra enjoyable for the whole family. Practical tip: Booking your entrance tickets in advance on Trip.com is convenient, especially during busy seasons. Consider the guided tour option if you want a deeper understanding of the Summer Palace and its history—it’s well worth it! #realreview