Summer Palace(Qingyi Garden)

Seventeen-Arch Bridge at Beijing Summer Palace 🌞 3 PM Take Metro Line 4 and get off at Beigongmen Station. After exiting, walk a few minutes to see the Seventeen-Arch Bridge. 🌄 Evening Come here at dusk when the sky shows pink and purple clouds. The water reflects the colors of the bridge and sky, creating a stunning view! Remember to bring your camera to capture these beautiful moments. 🌉 Seventeen-Arch Bridge The park closes at 10 PM, so it’s recommended to arrive early for more time to explore. There are cultural and creative products for sale on the bridge, such as tickets to the Imperial Garden and fans, which make great souvenirs. There are also ice cream and beverage stalls where you can take a break. 📷 Photo Tips: 1. When taking photos on the bridge, use a horizontal and vertical composition to include the entire bridge and distant mountains in the frame. 2. Try shooting reflections from under the bridge for a more unique effect. 3. When photographing in front of the Long Corridor, use depth of field to highlight the subject. 4. Pay attention to shooting time and angles to avoid crowds and backlighting.

As someone who’s lived in Beijing for years and loves exploring the city streets, I’m great at uncovering beautiful, photogenic, and fun free spots in the capital! Today, I’m sharing my top 9 must-visit summer spots with you—from the “Little Altay” grasslands to the “Little Jiangnan” water towns, from Swan Lake to Monet’s Garden—all free or with very low entrance fees! Bookmark this list and check them out one by one on weekends! 🦌 ❶ Nanhaizi Park | Beijing’s “Little Altay” Here lies a huge Milu Deer Reserve! No need to go to Nara, you can get up close to free-range milu deer. In summer, the lush water plants and open lakeside views give a real grassland vibe. · 📌 Address: No.16 Huangyi Road, Daxing District · 🚇 Transport: Best to drive, navigate to “Nanhaizi Park Phase 1 South Gate” with convenient parking. Or take the bus to “Nanhaizi Park Station.” · 💡 Tip: Visit in the afternoon for soft light and active deer. Bring a small amount of washed carrot sticks to interact, but don’t scare them. 🌿 ❷ Yudong Countryside Park | The “Little Jiangnan” next to Summer Palace This is my top pick for Jiangnan vibes in Beijing! The water networks, rice fields, and small bridges at the foot of Yuquan Mountain perfectly recreate the tranquility of Jiangnan water towns. Summer here is full of vibrant green, super soothing. · 📌 Address: Intersection of Jinhe Road and Beiwu Village Road, Haidian District · 🚇 Transport: Get off at “Summer Palace West Gate” station on the Western Suburb Line. · 💡 Tip: Jinhe Road Bridge is a classic photo spot capturing waterways, rice fields, and Yufeng Pagoda together. Best visited early morning or evening for fewer people and beautiful light. 🦢 ❸ Ziyu Villa | The “Swan Lake” in the city A free European-style manor hidden in a villa area! Lawns, lakes, free-range alpacas, pigeons, swans, peacocks… it feels like stepping into a fairy tale. · 📌 Address: Ziyu Villa, Anli Road, Chaoyang District · 🎫 Reservation: Book in advance for free via the “Ziyu Park” mini program, or enter directly if you book the hotel or afternoon tea. · 💡 Tip: Bring some corn kernels—you’ll be “surrounded” by pigeons, perfect for photos! Animals are most active from 3 to 5 pm. 🎨 ❹ Luo Hong Photography Art Museum | Exhibition + garden in one More than just a photography exhibition, the Oriental garden outside is stunning! Pines, cypresses, mist, koi fish, black and white swans—every scene is like a work of art. · 📌 Address: No.6 Tianzhu Road, Shunyi District · 🚇 Transport: Take Metro Line 15 to “Guozhan” station, then a 5-minute taxi ride. · 💡 Tip: The garden area is free to visit; photography exhibitions require tickets. Afternoon tea is a bit pricey but the environment is unbeatable, great for anniversaries. 🚂 ❺ Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park | The top “oxygen bar” in southern Beijing A newly discovered treasure park! Huge area with forest, wetlands, streams; you can camp, bike, and ride a forest train through it. · 📌 Address: Huaifang Road, Fengtai District · 🚇 Transport: Metro Line 4 to “Xingong” station Exit F, about 1 km walk. · 💡 Tip: Enter from North Gate 1, closest to the “Shady Train” station. Bring a picnic mat and relax all afternoon. 🪷 ❻ Beihai Park | Royal lotus pond to admire in midsummer The place where “Let’s Paddle Our Oars Together” was inspired. In July, lotus flowers bloom fully, with the White Pagoda, red walls, and green lotus creating a uniquely Beijing classical romance. · 📌 Address: No.1 Wenjin Street, Xicheng District · 🎫 Ticket: 10 RMB in peak season (free with park annual card). · 💡 Tip: To see the lotus, enter from the South or East Gate. Go early at opening for fewer people, cool air, and fresh flowers. 🌼 ❼ Old Summer Palace - Zaoyuan Gate | Step into Monet’s garden Many rush to the Western mansions but miss the secret Zaoyuan Gate. In September, there’s a huge sea of zinnias and cosmos flowers with winding paths that look like an oil painting. · 📌 Address: Inside Zaoyuan Gate, Old Summer Palace, No.28 Tsinghua West Road, Haidian District · 🚇 Transport: Metro Line 4 to “Xiyuan” station Exit A, then walk to Zaoyuan Gate. · 💡 Tip: The flower sea is to the left after entering Zaoyuan Gate, follow the path to see it. Peak bloom is in September. 🎡 ❽ Langyuan Station | The colorful factory for trendsetters A creative park transformed from old warehouses, full of dopamine colors and design vibes. Many boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants; the buildings and graffiti are great for photos. · 📌 Address: No.53 Banjieta Road, Chaoyang District · 💡 Tip: The Haxxy playground and colorful pipe sky corridor at Central Station are must-visit spots. Perfect for afternoon shopping, coffee, and photos. 🏯 ❾ Taoranting Park | Poetic pavilion reflecting lotus “Taoranting” is one of China’s four famous pavilions. The park is small but exquisite; in summer, lotus flowers bloom on the lake, forming a vivid ink painting with the pavilions and towers. · 📌 Address: No.19 Taiping Street, Xicheng District · 🎫 Ticket: 2 RMB (free with park annual card). · 💡 Tip: The lotus varieties here are many and close to shore, great for photos. The Bluffing Platform and Lake Heart Pavilion are classic photo spots. 💎 Peach’s Practical Tips 1. Reservations: Ziyu Villa, Luo Hong Art Museum (garden area free only), etc. require advance booking to avoid disappointment. 2. Transport: Metro + shared bikes are most convenient for parks; for remote spots like Nanhaizi and Luo Hong, driving is recommended. 3. Timing: Weekday mornings have the fewest people and best experience; golden photo times are 8-10 am and 4-6 pm. 4. Gear: Prepare sun protection and mosquito repellent! Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk a lot. 5. Mindset: These places are for slow strolling, relaxing, and photography—don’t rush to “check off” spots. Beijing’s summer isn’t just heat and crowds. In these free and beautiful places, you can find your own coolness and romance. Save this list, tag your friends or partner, and head out this weekend! Where to go in Beijing on weekends

#mytraveldiary 🌸 One Day at the Summer Palace – Beijing (March) Visiting in early spring was just perfect — the weather was cool but comfortable, and the sky was clear. ☀️ 🌟 Highlights · 🏯 Strolling around the ancient pavilions and bridges with fewer crowds. · 🌿 The gardens starting to wake up from winter, a mix of bare trees and early greens. · 🌊 Walking along Kunming Lake was so peaceful, with crisp air and great photo spots everywhere. ✨ March is such a good time to enjoy the Summer Palace — not too hot, not too crowded, just calm and beautiful.

chinatrip If you’re looking for a dreamy slice of Beijing, the Summer Palace (No. 19, Gongmeng Road, Haidian District) is an absolute must-see! I spent the afternoon soaking up the sun beneath cherry blossoms and classic red pavilions—just total zen vibes surrounded by ancient Chinese architecture and autumn trees. 🌸🍂 But the real showstopper? Kunming Lake, which literally covers three-quarters of the park and is the heart of all the scenery. I hopped on a boat right as the sun started to set, and OMG, the golden glow over the water was unreal. Watching the sun dip behind the Western Hills and spill rays across the lake felt like stepping into a painting. From the boat, the views of Longevity Hill and the insta-famous Seventeen-Arch Bridge are next level—way better than any view from the shore! The whole vibe on the water is so peaceful, giving you those unique, magical perspectives you just can’t get anywhere else. Hot tip: The Summer Palace is open daily—April to October from 6:00 to 20:00 (last entry at 19:00), and November to March from 6:30 to 19:00 (last entry at 18:00). Admission’s totally worth it at 78 RMB. If you’re ever in Beijing and crave a sunset moment that’ll blow your mind, this is the place. Save this for your next trip, and don’t forget to check trip.com for all the deets! 🚤🌅✨

Summer Palace Guide Basic Information · Tickets: Peak Season ¥30, Off-Season ¥20 · Combo Ticket (includes inner gardens): Peak Season ¥60, Off-Season ¥50 · Hours: Peak Season 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Off-Season 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM · Inner Gardens (Tower of Buddhist Incense, Dehe Garden, etc.) are closed on Mondays Best Route (3-Hour Highlights) Enter via East Palace Gate → Hall of Benevolence and Longevity → Hall of Jade Ripples → Hall of Joyful Longevity → Long Corridor → Tower of Buddhist Incense → Marble Boat → Seventeen-Arch Bridge → Bronze Ox → Exit via New Palace Gate Must-See Highlights · Long Corridor: A 728-meter painted gallery with beautiful art at every step · Tower of Buddhist Incense: The landmark of the Summer Palace, offering panoramic views of Kunming Lake · Seventeen-Arch Bridge: Covered with countless stone lions, absolutely stunning at sunset · Marble Boat: The only Western-style architecture in the park · West Causeway: Quiet with fewer crowds, modeled after the Su Causeway of West Lake Practical Tips · Transportation: Subway Line 4 to Beigongmen Station or Xiyuan Station is the most convenient · Try to enter before 9:00 AM to avoid the crowds · Wear comfortable walking shoes—the park is huge and requires a lot of walking · Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake to save time and enjoy the scenery · Bring your own water and snacks, as prices inside the park are quite high Guide

🌿 Beijing to Chengde Mountain Resort: Explore the entire park with a 200 yuan annual pass, a 5-hour quick guide. The annual pass requires an ID card to exchange at the manual ticket counter. I personally tested entering right at 7 AM, and in 5 hours, you can visit all core attractions in the Plain Area, Palace Area, Lake Area, and Mountain Area. This guide is for friends who want to check off efficiently~ 📍 Must-visit attractions: Ranked by recommendation 1. Wenzin Pavilion (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) This is where the Siku Quanshu (Complete Library of the Four Treasuries) was stored, and the rockery is its soul! The winding stone paths hide many small surprises. Duck into the rockery caves and look up; light filters through the cracks, absolutely thrilling for rockery enthusiasts, a must-visit! 2. Wenyuan Lion Grove (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) Built to imitate Suzhou's Lion Grove Garden, but the rockery is larger and more wild! Climbing it feels like navigating a maze, sometimes so narrow you have to turn sideways, other times opening up to a small pavilion. It's absolutely on par with the original, you'll regret missing it. 3. Misty Rain Tower (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) Filming location for Shufangzhai in "My Fair Princess." Although the interior has no furnishings, climbing the rockery for lake views is absolutely stunning! Recommend arriving early (7-8 AM). When there are fewer people, stand on top of the rockery to capture the Misty Rain Tower reflected in the lake, instantly transporting you to a scene from the drama. 4. Wu Shu Qing Liang (Cool and Refreshing Without Summer Heat) (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) A tranquil courtyard hidden deep in the Lake Area. The Nanmu Hall has a natural fragrance, and its interior furnishings retain their original elegance. The two-story opera stage, though small, has exquisite details. Perfect for a leisurely stroll to experience the "coolness without summer heat." 5. Moonlight on the River Sound (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) Don't focus on the exhibits; pay attention to the architecture, rockeries, and pine trees! Centuries-old ancient pines with gnarled branches, paired with Taihu stone rockeries, every casual photo has the texture of an ancient painting. The light is best in the early morning. 🚶 Route & Avoiding Pitfalls: 5-hour Quick Guide Secret · Timeline: Enter at 7:00 AM → Head straight to the Palace Area (quick look at Nanmu Hall) → 7:30 AM Lake Area (Wenzin Pavilion → Misty Rain Tower → Moonlight on the River Sound → Wu Shu Qing Liang, save energy by taking a boat, boat ticket 60 yuan) → 10:00 AM Wenyuan Lion Grove → 10:30 AM Rehe Spring (take a quick photo and leave if it's crowded) → 11:00 AM Mountain Area Car Road (take the scenic car for 60 yuan, quickly reach the mountaintop for panoramic views; skip if you don't want to climb) → 12:00 PM Exit the park. · Pitfalls to avoid: ✅ Mountain Area Car Road: The mountain road is extremely narrow, and cars get very close to the cliff when passing; choose carefully if you're timid. Only come if you want to photograph the Mini Potala Palace viewpoint, otherwise, it's not worth the time. ✅ Yongyou Temple Pagoda: Located at the end of the Plain Area, a 1-hour+ round trip walk. No need to go specifically if you're not a pagoda enthusiast. ✅ Canglang Isle: Currently closed, don't make a wasted trip. 💡 Practical Tips · The annual pass is super cost-effective! Locals in Chengde can get it, and it's also worth it for Beijing visitors planning to come more than twice (single ticket 130 yuan). · If you have average stamina, don't try my 5-hour quick tour. I recommend splitting it into 2 days: Day 1 Lake Area + Palace Area, Day 2 Mountain Area + Plain Area, for a more comfortable experience. · The Mountain Resort is like a condensed version of "Old Summer Palace + Summer Palace + Fragrant Hills." I've seen many posts advising against it, but I personally found that as long as you pick the right attractions (like those rockeries), it's definitely worth a visit. Looking back as I left, the sunset gilded the palace roofs, and I suddenly understood why the imperial family flocked here to escape the summer heat back then – this garden has both the exquisite craftsmanship of the south and the vastness of the north. 5 hours is simply not enough. Next time, I want to come back leisurely, stay for a few days, and truly experience a "cool and refreshing" summer~

Perfect for family trips, this Jiangnan ancient town holds 1,500 years of Jiangnan charm, with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. For spring break trips with kids in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai, skip the overcrowded popular ancient towns! Instead, visit this underrated treasure town that embodies over 1,500 years of Jiangnan spirit. ✅ The distant bell sounds of the Northern and Southern Dynasties ancient temple ✅ The elegant Erquan melodies passed down from the Tang and Song Dynasties ✅ Jiangnan garden landscapes replicated in the Summer Palace A place that Emperor Qianlong visited six times on his southern tours, every brick and tile is a poem written by time. Walking on the bluestone paths, witnessing the everyday life of the ancient town, the gentleness and poetic charm of Jiangnan are vividly expressed here. 📍 Location: Wuxi Huishan Ancient Town · Jichang Garden 🚶 Family-friendly sightseeing route: Jichang Garden ➠ The Second Spring ➠ Spring Flower Viewing ➠ Huishan Heng Street / Zhi Street 📸 Must-capture family photo spots at Jichang Garden / The Second Spring: ✅ Qixing Bridge: The prime photo spot in the garden; when there’s no wind, the water surface is like a mirror, reflecting the bridge, trees, and light. Standing on the bridge, every shot looks like an ink-wash Jiangnan family photo masterpiece. ✅ Zhiyu Rail: A waterside beauty’s perch; sitting by the railing you can watch the koi fish 🐠 and gaze at the Longguang Pagoda on Xishan Mountain. Every frame is a Jiangnan scene, and you can feed the koi with your kids to unlock family fun. ✅ Bayin Stream: A winding path leading to a secluded spot where clear springs flow over stones and dappled light filters through the trees. Immerse your kids in the beauty of Jiangnan garden landscaping. ✅ Lingxiao Pavilion and Beauty Stone: Discover the layered charm of small bridges and flowing water, with the Longguang Pagoda in the distance. The Beauty Stone stands gracefully by the pond, making for poetic photos. ✅ The Second Spring: A garden landscape with staggered stone carvings from various eras and a moon gate made of Taihu stones. Photos here feel like stepping into an ancient painting, and you can tell your kids the story of “The Moon Reflected in the Second Spring.” 🏮 The lively Jiangnan atmosphere of Huishan Ancient Town: On the black-tiled white walls of Heng Street and Zhi Street, the gentle mist and rain create a soft ambiance. Try local specialty snacks with your kids, watch intangible cultural heritage crafts, and don’t rush your itinerary or check off spots mechanically. Here, just take your time and enjoy the beauty of Jiangnan with your children. 🌸 April Family Flower Viewing Guide: Currently, crabapple blossoms, camellias, and February orchids are in full bloom in the garden, creating a romantic scene against the pavilions and towers. Various spring flowers are also arranged along the paths. Whether in sunny light or misty rain, the scenery is stunning and perfect for family flower viewing and photo ops. ‼ Family Travel Tips: 🚇 From Wuxi Station or Wuxi East Station, take the subway directly to [Huishan Ancient Town] station. ⏰ The ancient town is open all day for free; Jichang Garden is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 📷 On sunny days, the garden’s light and shadow create beautiful photos; on rainy days, occasional mist adds a Jiangnan ink-wash atmosphere. Both weather types are perfect for visiting. Accommodation 🏨 Sunac Wanda Wenhua Hotel 25 minutes by car from Huishan Ancient Town, a high-end Chinese courtyard family hotel with an indoor water park and children’s playground. 🏨 Huishan Ancient Town 21 Rooms Homestay A boutique Chinese-style family homestay inside the Huishan Ancient Town scenic area, renovated from a century-old residence, with a courtyard and walking distance to Jichang Garden. 🏨 Lianghong Wetland Radisson Resort Hotel 30 minutes by car from Huishan Ancient Town, a garden-style high-end family hotel with wetland views and children’s play facilities. 🏨 Nanchang Street Ancient Canal Homestay A Jiangnan-style family homestay by the ancient canal with a viewing terrace, 15 minutes by car from Huishan Ancient Town.

Tired of the crowded tourist spots in the city center and looking for a low-cost, slow-paced short getaway? Then you must check out the Beijing National Botanical Garden, a hidden treasure in Haidian District. It’s budget-friendly, stunningly scenic, and offers plenty of activities—perfect for solo relaxation, romantic dates, or group outings. 📍Detailed Address: Wofosi Road, Xiangshan, Haidian District, Beijing Take the Xijiao Line subway directly to the National Botanical Garden Station (formerly Beijing Botanical Garden). The transportation is very convenient, so you don’t have to worry about planning your route. There is also a dedicated parking area if you drive, making travel very easy. ⏳Opening Hours Peak Season: March 16 – November 15 North Garden: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM, last entry at 8:00 PM South Garden: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, last entry at 5:00 PM Off-Season: November 16 – March 15 (next year) North Garden: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM, last entry at 6:00 PM South Garden: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 4:00 PM The greenhouse facilities inside the garden are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment. 💰Admission Fees A combined ticket for both North and South Gardens costs only 10 RMB, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature at a low price; North Garden single ticket is 5 RMB, offering excellent value; Wofosi Temple charges a separate 5 RMB fee, with a serene atmosphere full of spiritual vibes; Seniors, children, military personnel, and other special groups can enjoy free admission with valid ID, offering great benefits. 💥Why We Strongly Recommend This Place The entire garden is densely covered with greenery, a true natural oxygen bar in the city, far from urban noise, filled with the fresh scent of plants. The popular Cherry Valley Dawn Redwood Forest is a must-visit, especially in the morning when mist drifts through the dense woods and the boardwalk winds through the forest, creating an immersive atmosphere. Seasonal flower seas bloom one after another—spring tulips and crabapple blossoms compete in beauty, with lush greenery everywhere, offering picturesque views at every step. The South Garden’s tropical greenhouse houses many unique and interesting plants, rich in educational value. The garden also contains cultural sites like Wofosi Temple and the Cao Xueqin Memorial Hall, blending natural scenery with historical depth for a rich and varied experience. 🌊Nearby Attractions for a Convenient Trip Xiangshan Park is right next door and reachable by a short walk, where you can climb to the top for panoramic mountain and countryside views; Beijing Xishan National Forest Park is perfect for hiking, quiet and less crowded, ideal for relaxation and stress relief; The Summer Palace is not far away, allowing you to easily plan a day of touring imperial gardens. 🍜Nearby Food Recommendations The food street at the foot of Xiangshan is lively and authentic, offering traditional old Beijing zhajiang noodles and various local snacks at affordable prices. Inside the garden, the Wofosi Temple vegetarian restaurant is quiet and elegant, serving light and healthy vegetarian dishes that refresh your palate. After a tiring walk, dining nearby is very convenient, with a wide variety of home-style dishes and fast food options to satisfy different tastes. You can enjoy a full day here for under 100 RMB. The place is not overly commercialized, the scenery is natural, and the pace is leisurely. No long-distance travel or high expenses are needed—you can unlock a fully healing and relaxing trip right in Beijing. For a weekend getaway, choosing the National Botanical Garden is definitely a safe bet.

Today, I'm taking you on a tour of the Summer Palace in Beijing. It's breathtakingly beautiful and totally lives up to the hype! ✨💖 🏯 The Summer Palace was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1998. This majestic palace perfectly blends traditional Chinese architecture with stunning natural landscapes, featuring the massive Kunming Lake 🌲, lush mountains, and numerous ancient buildings. ✨ Must-see highlights include: · Tower of Buddhist Incense – The most stunning viewpoint atop Longevity Hill ⛰️🙏 · The Long Corridor – Admire over 10,000 intricate painted murals 🖼️ · Kunming Lake – Take a relaxing boat ride and soak in the royal scenery · Seventeen-Arch Bridge – Snap photos of the carved stone lions and the gorgeous sunset 🌅 · Garden of Virtue and Harmony – Explore the classic 3-story grand theater 🎭 · Summer Palace Museum - Discover ancient artifacts, including pottery and porcelain 💰 Admission Fees (By season): · High Season (Apr - Oct): General admission 30 RMB | All-inclusive ticket (access to all areas) 60 RMB 🎟️ · Low Season (Nov - Mar): General admission 20 RMB | All-inclusive ticket 50 RMB ⏰ Operating Hours: · Main Gates: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Last entry at 7:00 PM) ⏳ Recommended Time: · 4 - 6 hours: The grounds are actually larger than the Forbidden City! Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and get your legs ready for a workout! 👟💪 ‼️ If you've ever wondered how Chinese emperors spent their leisure time, this is an absolute must-visit! 🔆🔆

China is a vast country with incredibly diverse nature. Many landscapes here look so unusual that it feels like you've stepped into another world. Here are 5 places in China that will amaze even experienced travelers. 🏔 "Avatar" Mountains — Zhangjiajie Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is one of China's most famous natural sites. These very cliffs inspired the creators of the movie "Avatar." Here you'll find: · thousands of vertical stone pillars · suspension bridges · glass walkways over the abyss 📌 It's best to set aside at least 2 days for your visit. 🎫 Park admission — around $30–35. ⛰ Heaven's Gate at Tianmen Mountain Near the city of Zhangjiajie is a mountain with a massive arch in the rock — one of the most extraordinary places in China. Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park What is especially impressive here: · one of the longest cable cars in the world (7.5 km) · glass walkways along the cliff edge · the 999-step stairway to Heaven's Gate 🎫 Ticket — around $40. You should plan for 4–5 hours for the visit. 🌄 Karst Mountains in Yangshuo The area near Yangshuo is often called one of the most beautiful landscapes in China. Here you can see: · thousands of karst mountains · rice terraces · the Li River The best way to explore the region is by bicycle or taking a boat trip down the river. 📌 It's worth setting aside half a day or a full day for this excursion. 🌈 Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye In Gansu province, you'll find the famous colorful mountains that look almost unreal. Zhangye National Geopark The stripes of red, yellow, and orange were formed by mineral deposits. 📌 The best time to visit is at sunset when the colors become especially vibrant. 🎫 Ticket — around $10–12. 🏞 Summer Palace in Beijing It's not just nature that makes China special. Beijing is home to one of the country's most beautiful imperial parks — the Summer Palace. Here you can see: · the vast Kunming Lake · the 17-Arch Bridge · long painted corridors · palaces and pagodas 📌 It's best to plan 2–3 hours for a stroll. 🎫 Admission — around $4–6. 💡 A Tip for Travelers China is a massive country, and there can be huge distances between these locations. It's best to plan your itinerary by grouping places by region: · Beijing · Zhangjiajie · Yangshuo / Guilin This will make your trip much more convenient. China never ceases to amaze; here, you can experience ancient imperial palaces, futuristic megacities, and nature that looks straight out of a sci-fi movie.

If I could only recommend one walking route in Beijing during summer, I would probably choose this place without hesitation. No crowds at popular spots, no queues or check-in tasks, just shade, streams, cicadas, and greenery that never tires you out along the way. Starting from Yinghoulou Park, slowly walk to Yudong Countryside Park, Beiwù Park, and finally go to the Summer Palace to watch the sunset — perfect for a half-day of daydreaming alone. 📍 Route Sketch: The "Green Wilderness" hidden in the Western Suburbs · Location: Haidian District, near Chapeng Station on the Western Suburb Line, four parks connected as one. · Highlights: Few people, free admission (except the Summer Palace), shaded throughout. Streams, wooden boardwalks, rice fields, lake views — like stepping into a Studio Ghibli animation. · Duration: Half a day (about 3-4 hours), recommended to start around 3 or 4 PM. · Transportation: Take the Western Suburb Line subway to Chapeng Station, then walk to the entrance of Yinghoulou Park. 🗺️ Four stops in a row, each with its own scenery Stop 1 | Yinghoulou Park (Green Light Forest) Get off at Chapeng Station and walk a few minutes to Yinghoulou Park. It really feels like a green light forest here, with winding wooden boardwalks stretching into the lake and tree shadows reflected on the water. Occasionally, a breeze stirs tiny ripples across the lake. There are very few people; sometimes you can walk for over ten minutes without seeing anyone, making it perfect for a slow stroll with headphones on. Stop 2 | Yudong Countryside Park (My favorite section) Leaving Yinghoulou, walk a few minutes along the trail to enter Yudong Countryside Park. This is my favorite part of the whole route — a stream flows from the foot of Yuquan Mountain, with shade and wooden boardwalks all along the way. The air smells like a mix of leaves, earth, and moisture, much more pleasant than air conditioning in malls. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting shifting patches of light on the ground. When tired, just sit by the river for a while and think of nothing. Stop 3 | Beiwù Park (Little Jiangnan) Walking from Yudong, you’ll pass many small bridges and waterways, giving a feeling of entering a little Jiangnan (a picturesque region in southern China). The best part is that there’s almost no commercialization here — no one rushing you to take photos, no must-check-in spots. Just quietly walk, look at the water and trees, and time slows down a lot. Stop 4 | Summer Palace (Sunset finale) In the evening, head straight to the Summer Palace (ticket required, about 30 RMB). The summer sunset here is truly beautiful; the breeze from Kunming Lake instantly cools the heat accumulated during the day. Sitting by the lake watching the sun slowly set gives a feeling of “I didn’t do anything today, but somehow I feel healed.” 📸 Photo Guide · Outfit suggestions: Light-colored clothes (white, beige, light blue) perfectly match the green background. Bring a straw hat for sun protection and as a prop. · Best time: 4-6 PM, soft light, dappled shadows, golden ripples on the lake. · Must-shoot spots: 1. The wooden boardwalk at Yinghoulou Park, capturing the depth extending into the lake. 2. By the stream at Yudong Countryside Park, capturing tree shadows and water reflections. 3. On the small bridge at Beiwù Park, capturing the waterways and distant Yuquan Mountain. 4. By Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace, capturing the sunset and lake reflections. 💡 Practical Tips 1. Transportation: Recommended to take the Western Suburb Line and get off at Chapeng Station. The line itself is scenic, with fields and mountain views along the way. 2. Tickets: The first three parks are free; the Summer Palace requires a ticket (about 30 RMB, book in advance on the official platform). 3. Gear: Comfortable flat shoes (for walking the whole route), sunscreen, hat, mosquito repellent, water. 4. Supplies: Few shops along the way, so bring your own water and snacks. 5. Pet-friendly: Pets allowed in the first three parks, not allowed in the Summer Palace. 6. Best seasons: Suitable for spring, summer, and autumn. Summer offers lots of shade; autumn has richer colors. 🎯 In one sentence From the Green Light Forest to Little Jiangnan, ending with a sunset at the Summer Palace — this route is my most treasured healing corner in Beijing’s summer. Beijing hidden walking routes

So far, the most suitable Jiangnan ancient town for family trips, with few people and beautiful scenery, hiding a thousand years of charm. Spring break in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai is here. If you haven't decided where to take your kids yet, why not visit this treasure ancient town that holds over 1500 years of Jiangnan charm and should not be overlooked? ✅ Ancient temple bell sounds from the Northern and Southern Dynasties ✅ Elegant Erquan from the Tang and Song Dynasties ✅ Jiangnan garden scenery replicated in the Summer Palace A place where Emperor Qianlong stayed six times during his southern tours, every brick and tile is a poem written by time. Walking on the bluestone roads and seeing the daily life of the ancient town, the gentleness of Jiangnan is fully expressed here. 📍 Location: Wuxi Huishan Ancient Town · Jichang Garden 🚶 Family-exclusive check-in and play route: Jichang Garden ➠ The Second Spring ➠ Spring Flower Viewing ➠ Huishan Heng Street / Zhi Street 📸 Must-take family photo spots at Jichang Garden / The Second Spring: ✅ Qixing Bridge: The central photo spot in the garden, when there is no wind the water surface is like a mirror, reflections of the bridge, trees, and light intertwine. Standing on the bridge is like ink-wash Jiangnan, perfect for family photos. ✅ Zhiyu Rail: A beautiful bench built by the water, sit by the railing to watch the koi fish 🐠, with a distant view of Xishan Longguang Pagoda. Each frame is a scene full of artistic conception, you can also feed the koi with your kids. ✅ Bayin Stream: A winding path leading to a secluded spot, clear spring water flowing over stones, dappled light under the trees, a secret garden to immerse your kids in the fun of gardens. ✅ Lingxiao Pavilion and Beauty Stone: Capture the layered feeling of small bridges and flowing water, borrowing the distant Longguang Pagoda as a backdrop; the Beauty Stone stands gracefully by the pond, very poetic for photos. ✅ The Second Spring: A well-arranged garden landscape with stone carvings and a moon gate made of Taihu stones. Taking photos here feels like stepping into a painting, and you can tell your kids the story of "The Moon Reflected in the Second Spring." 🏮 Jiangnan life in Huishan Ancient Town: On the Heng Street and Zhi Street with black tiles and white walls, the misty rain is gentle. Take your kids to try local snacks, watch intangible cultural heritage crafts, no need to rush to attractions or check in deliberately. Here, just slowly enjoy the Jiangnan atmosphere~ 🌸 April Family Flower Viewing Guide: Now the crabapple flowers, camellias, and February orchids are blooming beautifully in the garden, very romantic against the pavilions and towers. Various flowers are also arranged along the roadsides. Whether under light and shadow or in misty rain, it’s extremely beautiful and perfect for flower viewing with kids. ‼ Family Travel Tips: 🚇 From Wuxi / Wuxi East Station, transfer to the subway directly to [Huishan Ancient Town] station. ⏰ The ancient town is free to visit all day, Jichang Garden is open from 8:00 to 17:00. 📷 On sunny days, the garden has great light and shadow effects; on cloudy or rainy days with thin mist, it has even more Jiangnan atmosphere, both are beautiful~ Accommodation 🏨 Taihu Hotel 20 minutes by car from Huishan Ancient Town, Wuxi’s top luxury garden-style family hotel, with a private lakeside and children’s playground. 🏨 Jichang Garden Chaofang Homestay A Chinese-style family homestay inside the Huishan Ancient Town scenic area, renovated from a century-old house, walking distance to Jichang Garden, experience intangible cultural heritage crafts. 🏨 Nianhuawan Junlai Boromido Hotel 40 minutes by car from Huishan Ancient Town, a high-end family hotel with a Zen theme, featuring performances and children’s play facilities. 🏨 Huishan Ancient Town Jiangnan Courtyard Homestay A Jiangnan-style courtyard homestay near Huishan Ancient Town, with a family courtyard and tea room, walking distance to the core area of the ancient town.