Yuanmingyuan Park(Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park)

Looking for low-cost travel and photo spots to relax in Beijing? These 9 hidden gems are a must-visit✨, most of them free! They are off the beaten path with few crowds and full of atmosphere, covering forests, Jiangnan-style scenery, gardens, and artsy neighborhoods. Perfect for daily relaxation, weekend strolls, and photo check-ins. Beginners can confidently visit without worries! Quick overview of the collection💫: Nanhaizi Park Elk Garden, Yudong Countryside Park, Ziyu Villa, Luo Hong Photography Studio Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park, Beihai Park, Old Summer Palace Algae Garden, Langyuan Station, Taoranting Park 📸 Photo Spot Tips Under the shade by the lake at Yudong Countryside Park feels like stepping into a little Jiangnan; at Luo Hong Photography Studio, shoot black and white swans by the lake with a full ancient vibe; Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park’s lawns and forest paths are perfect for casual forest-style shots; Langyuan Station’s colorful streets are great for dopamine-boosting outfits; Beihai and Taoranting’s lotus ponds and pavilions are must-shoot spots for summer lotus and ancient style. 💡 Pitfall Avoidance & Practical Tips ✔️ Ziyu Villa requires advance reservation via mini-program, visit during off-peak hours to avoid queues ✔️ Nanhaizi Elk Garden is closed on Mondays, don’t go empty-handed ✔️ Beihai, Old Summer Palace, and Taoranting have low ticket prices; annual passes are very cost-effective ✔️ Countryside parks have many mosquitoes, remember to bring insect repellent ✔️ For camping, Nanyuan Wetland Park is the top choice, with water activities and tent pitching for a super healing experience No need to travel far or spend money, you can unlock many beautiful sceneries right in Beijing. Convenient by subway or car, suitable for solo relaxation, outings with friends, or family trips. Save this list and check them off one by one this weekend~

As late spring transitions to early summer, and peonies bid farewell, the peonies of the Old Summer Palace gracefully and resiliently take center stage. Nearly 20,000 square meters and over 30 varieties of peonies create a vibrant sea of flowers. The mottled ruins and splendid blossoms complement each other, blending a rich history with vibrant life, making it an unmissable floral feast in Beijing this May. I. Flowering Period · Season · Best Blooming Period: Early May – Late May (Currently at its peak, flowers are full, and some rare twin-peonies are quietly blooming – encountering them is good luck) . · Daily Golden Viewing Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM. The morning light is soft, and the evening glow is warm, allowing petals to unfurl and display their colors beautifully, perfect for photos. Avoid strong midday sun and peak crowds . · Flowering Characteristics: While peonies dominate late spring, peonies stand at the cusp of spring and summer, not vying for attention or being ostentatious, but blooming quietly. The flowering period is about 20 days; miss it and wait a year . II. Core Flower Viewing Areas · Complete Photo Spot Guide (100% Photo Success Rate) 1. Hongci Yonghu (Main Flower Sea · Must-Visit) · Location: Enter through Zaoyuan Gate, turn left, and walk for about 10 minutes. · Highlights: Largest area, most magnificent flower sea, open terrain, with red, pink, white, and purple peonies blooming in continuous patches, offering a full visual impact. · Photo Spots: Take panoramic shots from the outer lawn, walk through the paths for a "surrounded by flowers" feeling, and capture the distant ruins framed with the flower sea for a full atmospheric effect . 2. Changchun Xianguan (Ancient Style Fairyland · Hanfu Recommended) · Location: Turn left from Zaoyuan Gate, head east for 5 minutes, past the small mound next to the yurt. · Highlights: Planted by the water, stone bridges, canals, and the lake reflect the peonies. The elegant ancient garden blends with the soft, beautiful blossoms, offering a quiet and less crowded scene . · Photo Spots: Take photos of people and flower reflections on the stone bridge, close-ups of flowers by the water, and pose with Hanfu and a round fan, as if stepping out of an ancient painting . 3. Yuedi Yunju (Waterside Secret Realm · Niche Photo Spot) · Location: From Hongci Yonghu, walk south along the east bank of the small river for 5 minutes. · Highlights: Waterside flower field with no fences, allowing for close-up viewing. The flower clusters are sparse and well-arranged, and the lake water shimmers, creating a tranquil and healing atmosphere . · Photo Spots: Take low-angle shots of flowers and the lake from the bank, capture atmospheric close-ups by the flower clusters, and enjoy the flower sea away from the crowds . 4. Shangaoshuichang + Hanjing Hall (Visit Along the Way · Panoramic Extension) - Highlights: Peonies bloom freely by the open lawn, and clusters of flowers adorn the Hanjing Hall ruins. The flower sea intertwines with the ancient remnants, showcasing the profound historical weight . III. Transportation · Tickets · Route (Nanny-Level Guide) 1. Address Old Summer Palace Ruins Park, No. 28 Qinghua West Road, Haidian District, Beijing. 2. Transportation · Subway: Take Line 4/Line 16 to Xiyuan Station, Exit A, and walk directly to Zaoyuan Gate (close to the flower sea, recommended); or take Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Station, Exit B, and walk to Qichunyuan Palace Gate. · Bus: Take routes 331/432/664 to Yuanmingyuan South Gate Station. 3. Tickets · Adult Ticket: 10 RMB (includes flower sea viewing). · Ruins Pass: 25 RMB (includes Old Summer Palace + Ruins Area, optional). · Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM (normal operating hours during peony season) . 4. Recommended Route (No backtracking, total length approx. 1.8km) Zaoyuan Gate → Rose Corridor → Hongci Yonghu (Main Flower Sea) → Yuedi Yunju (Waterside Secret Realm) → Changchun Xianguan (Ancient Style Photo Spot) → Shangaoshuichang → Hanjing Hall → Return. IV. Outfit · Photography · Atmosphere Guide 1. Outfit Suggestions · Style: Light colors (white/beige/light pink/light blue), Hanfu, New Chinese style, linen long dresses, matching the gentle temperament of peonies . · Accessories: Round fans, oil-paper umbrellas, ancient-style hairpins to add details and enhance the atmosphere . 2. Photography Tips · Lighting: Avoid harsh midday light; soft morning and evening light makes flowers appear more translucent and portraits softer . · Composition: Low-angle shots looking up at the flower sea appear grand; use frame composition (stone bridges/willow branches) to frame the floral scenery; combine real and virtual elements (foreground flowers + background ruins) to enhance artistic conception . · Taboos: Do not step on flower beds, do not pick flowers, do not spray water. Enjoy the flowers civilly and preserve the beauty of the flower sea . V. Secret Easter Eggs · Atmospheric Captions 1. Hidden Easter Eggs · Twin Peonies: Rare in the park, two flowers blooming on one stem symbolize good things coming in pairs and happiness. Encountering them is lucky . · Swaying Flower Shadows: In the evening, a gentle breeze makes peony shadows dance on the ruins' stone foundations, a beautiful interplay of time, tranquil and healing . 2. Atmospheric Captions · Peonies favored by spring, why envy the peony? In May, the Old Summer Palace invites you to a gentle floral affair. · Ruins reflect peonies, vibrant flowers console the vicissitudes. Half profound history, half early summer tenderness. · Not vying for attention, not ostentatious, peonies bloom quietly into poetry, the last tenderness of spring in Beiping. VI. Important Notes 1. The flowering period is limited; flowers will gradually wither after late May, so it's recommended to visit early . 2. The park is large, so wear comfortable athletic shoes and prepare for sun protection (hat, sunscreen). 3. Most flower seas are outdoors; if there's light rain, bring a clear umbrella. Peonies in the rain appear even fresher and more ethereal. 4. Weekends can be crowded; prioritize visiting on weekday mornings to enjoy the tranquil flower sea exclusively.

Here is a guide to visiting the Old Summer Palace: Transportation Take Metro Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Station, Exit B, or take Bus 129, 331, etc. to the South Gate of the Old Summer Palace. Tour Route · Enter from the East Gate: Visit the Black Swan Lake, go to the Shengshi Panorama Model Exhibition to learn about the history of the Old Summer Palace, then visit the ruins of the Western Mansions, Dashuifa, etc. After that, visit the Changchun Garden and Qichun Garden. You can take a boat from the Western Mansions Wharf to the South Gate. · Enter from the South Gate: First go to Zhengjue Temple to visit the Old Summer Palace Museum to see the Horse Head, then follow the signs to the ruins of the Western Mansions. You can also take a boat there. Must-see Attractions · Ruins of the Western Mansions: Dashuifa, Yuanyingguan, Guanshuifa, etc., showcasing Western architectural styles. · Changchun Garden: Large water features, with many attractions. · Qichun Garden: A collection of small water gardens, the main venue of the Lotus Festival. · Zhengjue Temple: Visit the Old Summer Palace Museum, which displays the 12 Zodiac Heads. Activities in the Park You can take a sightseeing bus, boat, or rent a bicycle to tour the park.

🌸 The peonies at the Old Summer Palace are in full bloom! The timing is just perfect this year!✨ Before you lies a dreamy sea of flowers, With blue skies, white clouds, and lush green trees in the distance, Adding endless vitality to this sea of peonies. 📸 Photo Tips: Wearing light-colored clothes makes your photos stand out more. Crouching down helps capture the flower sea in the frame. Bringing a hat as a prop adds to the atmosphere. 📍 Flower Viewing Spots: Peonies can be seen in many areas within the Old Summer Palace. You can follow the fragrance to find the exact locations~ Under the blue sky and white clouds, These peonies are blooming passionately, As if welcoming every visitor. Visiting the Old Summer Palace this season, Besides experiencing the historical ruins, You can also enjoy such beautiful natural scenery. Truly worth it! ❤️ Take advantage of the peak blooming period, Come to the Old Summer Palace and check in at this pink sea of flowers~

Beijing's Early Summer Exclusive Romance! The Old Summer Palace hides the city's most enchanting sea of peonies 😭 Live confirmation: It is now in full bloom, with clusters of flowers spectacularly dense. The blooming period lasts only until mid-May, hurry up! The entire sea of flowers is concentrated on the west side of the park, the largest peony field in the Old Summer Palace. Fiery red, gentle pink, and elegant white bloom in layers, creating an immersive atmosphere. 🌸 Core Viewing Areas · Hongci Yonghu (Main Flower Sea) The largest area with the most abundant blooms, mostly inside the fence, offering a stunning distant view; there are also flower clusters outside the fence for close-up shots. · Yuedi Yunjü A lakeside flower sea without fences, where the water reflects the flowers beautifully, fewer people and great scenery. · Changchun Xianguan The second largest flower area, can be framed with the stone bridge, an excellent spot for ancient-style Hanfu photography. 📍 Route Guide · Entrance: West Zaoyuan Gate of the Old Summer Palace (8-minute walk from Exit A of Xiyuan Station on Metro Line 4) · Route: Enter through Zaoyuan Gate → turn left → navigate to "Hongci Yonghu" (about 10 minutes on foot) · Ticket: 10 RMB (free with senior ID) 📸 Photo & Travel Tips · Outfit: Light colors, Tang-style Hanfu / New Chinese style to maximize the atmosphere. · Time: Enter before 9 AM, when the light is soft, fewer people, and petals are fully open with bright colors. · Surroundings: Large lawn on the west side, perfect for camping and frisbee, a one-stop spot for flower viewing and outdoor fun~

A Deep Dive into the Old Summer Palace: I Found Emperor Qianlong's "Secret Garden" in the Ruins and Unlocked a Palace-Style Maze! Opening Story: A Dialogue Spanning Time and Space "Did you know? The Yellow Flower Maze in the Old Summer Palace was specially designed by Emperor Qianlong for his concubines to stroll through with lanterns during the Mid-Autumn Festival!" Standing at the entrance of the maze, the guide's words instantly made me imagine the scene of palace lanterns swaying and laughter echoing a hundred years ago. This royal garden, known as the "Garden of Gardens," may now be just ruins, but it holds countless secrets that even long-time Beijing residents may not know—from AR experiences at the Western-Style Mansions site to the "Monet's Water Lilies" by Fuhai Lake. Turns out, there are so many fun ways to explore the Old Summer Palace! Part 1|Avoid the Crowds! A Local's Secret Tour Route Recommended Route: South Gate → Jianbi Pavilion (Stamp Collection) → Intersection of the Three Gardens → Western-Style Mansions Site (Must-See Grand Waterworks) → Boating on Fuhai Lake → Panoramic Sand Table → Black Swan Lake → Exit from the East Gate 7:30 AM Enter through the South Gate: Take advantage of the small crowds and head straight to the Jianbi Pavilion cultural and creative shop! Here, you can collect limited-edition Old Summer Palace stamps. Collect all 5 to unlock the hidden "Grand Waterworks" stamp, and your photos will instantly outshine those of other tourists on social media. 9:00 AM Western-Style Mansions Site: Don't squeeze in at the front of the Grand Waterworks! Go around to the stone screen behind the Water Watching Method and use a wide-angle lens to shoot the remaining pillars and the sky to form a geometric composition, easily capturing a magazine-worthy shot. Secret spot: the stone steps on the east side of the Haiyan Hall site. Squat down and use the base of the Chinese zodiac statues as the foreground to create a full sense of historical vicissitudes. 11:00 AM Boating on Fuhai Lake: Rent an electric boat (CNY 80/hour), pass through the lotus bushes, and head straight to the island in the center of the lake. When the water lilies are in full bloom at the end of May, you'll feel like you've stepped into a Monet painting. Secret tip: The bow of the boat has its own sunshade, creating a soft-focus filter for your photos! Part 2|Hidden Gems That 99% of Tourists Miss "Palace Games" in the Yellow Flower Maze: In the Western-Style Mansions scenic area, be sure to challenge yourself with Emperor Qianlong's maze! Close your eyes, walk 10 steps while touching the wall, and then turn right. It is said that this is how the concubines found their way out back then (personally tested and effective). Elegant Encounter at Black Swan Lake: In the Black Swan Lake area on the north side of Changchun Garden, you're likely to see the swan couple parading with their babies around 3pm. Remember to keep your voice down and approach quietly so you don't scare away the "royal pets." Time Travel with the Panoramic Sand Table: At the sand table exhibition near Hanjing Hall, you can scan with AR to see the original appearance of the buildings! Stare at the "Fanghu Shengjing" model for 5 seconds, and a fountain animation will suddenly appear on your phone screen, amazing even your parents. Part 3|Things to Avoid: Three Things Not to Buy in the Old Summer Palace Don't buy: The CNY 25 Chinese zodiac ice cream in the scenic area tastes like frozen sugar water. Money-saving tip: Borrow props from passers-by for photos! Don't eat: The fried sausage set meal by Fuhai Lake (CNY 38/portion) is not as good as the "Old Beijing Fried Sauce Noodle Restaurant" to the right of the East Gate, where you can get a filling meal for CNY 15 with pickled garlic as a free side. Must-buy: The "Lotus Sachet" (CNY 19.9) from the San Kong Bridge cultural and creative shop has a light herbal fragrance that is great for repelling mosquitoes, and it's also a great prop for taking photos with a classic style! Part 4|Super Practical Tips! Tickets & Transportation & Seasonal Secrets Tickets: Joint ticket CNY 25 (including the Western-Style Mansions/Panoramic Sand Table), half price for students, free for those over 60! No reservation required, just scan your ID card to enter (except during holidays). Opening Hours: Peak season 7:00–19:00 (April–October), Western-Style Mansions are lit up until 21:00 on Friday/Saturday evenings, a must-see for night owls! Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Station, Exit B, and it's a 5-minute walk to the South Gate. Self-driving visitors should note: There are few parking spaces at the East Gate, so you need to arrive before 9am to get one. Seasonal Specials: April: Magnolia blossoms at Jianbi Pavilion, wear Hanfu to take "palace flower appreciation" photos September: Ginkgo Avenue is covered with golden leaves, perfect for backlight shots at 4pm December: Red walls reflecting snow at Zhengjue Temple, take "Forbidden City alternative" photos Conclusion: Save this guide to unlock both sides of the Old Summer Palace! On the way back from the Old Summer Palace, my friend looked at the photos and exclaimed, "Turns out you can dig up treasures even in the ruins!" Next time you come, why not follow this route—collect stamps in the morning, challenge the maze in the afternoon, boat and chase swans in the evening, and watch the lights illuminate the wounds of history at night. Also, don't forget to take an AR trip to the panoramic sand table. After all, who can resist an Old Summer Palace that is both tragic and romantic? 🌟Click to save and copy this guide for your next visit! Old Summer Palace

Must-visit in Beijing: Yuanmingyuan📸 A comprehensive guide covering routes, tickets, check-in spots, and pitfalls to avoid. Beginners can easily explore the core area, save time, and avoid unnecessary expenses. After reading, you’re ready to go~ Yuanmingyuan consists of three gardens and was once known as the "Garden of Gardens." It offers both a rich historical atmosphere and beautiful lakes and mountains, perfect for family trips, outings with friends, or solo travel✨ 📌 Key Check-in Spots (Great for photos + no detours) ▫️ Western Mansions Ruins (a must-see!) | The soul of Yuanmingyuan, featuring the Grand Waterworks and the remains of the Yuanying Pavilion. White marble carvings hold history. Best to shoot in the early morning or late afternoon against the light, avoiding the midday crowds. ▫️ Zhengjue Temple | The only intact ancient building in the park, housing the bronze horse head statue and the "National Treasure Returns Home" exhibition. The red walls and black tiles are photogenic and a good spot to avoid crowds while learning history. ▫️ Panorama Sand Table | A 1:1000 scale restoration of the grand scene. Taking photos with the sand table creates a great atmosphere, combining photography and knowledge. ▫️ Fuhai Lake | The largest water surface, perfect for a healing lakeside walk. In summer, enjoy lotus flowers and stunning sunsets, and occasionally spot black swans. ▫️ Huanghua Maze | A royal European-style maze. Climb to the top for great aerial shots. Ideal for parent-child interaction. ▫️ Ginkgo Avenue (a must-visit in autumn) | Golden fallen leaves paired with ruins, a must-shoot for photography lovers. 🗺️ Recommended Tour Routes (Core area covered in 2.5-3 hours) Combined ticket route: Qichun Garden South Gate → Zhengjue Temple → Junction of the three gardens → Ginkgo Avenue (autumn) → Western Mansions → Panorama Sand Table → Fuhai Lake → Huanghua Maze → East Gate (no backtracking). Easy version: Qichun Garden South Gate → Zhengjue Temple → Fuhai Lake → Western Mansions → Panorama Sand Table (suitable for those with average stamina). 💡 Essential Info for Beginners Address: No. 28 Qinghua West Road, Haidian District (next to the Summer Palace)🚇 Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Station, Exit B, then a 5-minute walk to Qichun Garden South Gate; public transport is recommended during peak times. 🎫 Tickets (2026 latest) ▫️ Main gate ticket 10 RMB, Western Mansions 15 RMB, Panorama Sand Table 10 RMB, combined ticket 25 RMB (must buy, great value). ✅ Discounts: Free for under 18 and over 60; half price for students and low-income households; free for military, police, and disabled on first entry. ✅ Free days: Cultural Heritage Day, National Defense Education Day, October 18 Memorial Day. ⏰ Opening hours Peak season (4/1-10/31): 7:00-19:00 (last entry 18:00); Off-season (11/1-3/31): 7:00-17:30 (last entry 16:30). 🌟 Avoid crowds: Enter before 7 AM, best in spring and autumn. ⚠️ Pitfall Tips 1. Rent a bike or electric cart if stamina is low; the park is huge; 2. Climbing ruins is strictly prohibited; take photos with perspective tricks to avoid crowds; 3. Bring your own water and snacks; you can eat Beijing-style food outside the park; 4. VR experience hall requires extra ticket and reservation, try if interested; 5. Bring sunscreen in summer and a tripod in autumn; 6. No reservation needed, but buying tickets in advance via the official account saves queuing. 💬 Final thoughts: Follow this guide, beginners will avoid all pitfalls, enjoy history, and take amazing photos simultaneously~ Yuanmingyuan

I've been to Hengdian several times, but this is my first time visiting the New Yuanming Palace. I didn't expect Hengdian to have a 1:1 replica of the Yuanmingyuan architectural complex. I was truly amazed by these exquisitely crafted buildings! If you have one day like me, I recommend visiting Xiayuan in the morning and Chunyuan in the afternoon. I've already found all the classic photo spots for you! Xiayuan ✅ Twelve Zodiac Heads The bronze heads of the twelve zodiac animals in Yuanmingyuan were originally part of the fountain outside Haiyantang in the Old Summer Palace. At noon every day, the twelve zodiac bronze heads spray water together, creating a spectacular scene. The stairs on both sides are great photo spots. ✅ Grand Waterworks The main attraction in the Western-style buildings area is the man-made fountain, known as the "Waterworks." It is characterized by numerous fountains, grand momentum, and unique design, hence called the Grand Waterworks, one of the iconic buildings in the park. ✅ Xieqiqu The first European-style waterworks hall in Yuanmingyuan. ✅ Qing Dynasty Story Museum An exhibition of cultural relics lost overseas at the end of the Qing Dynasty, displaying precious Qing artifacts such as the kingfisher feather crown, palace shoes, and official robes. It feels like traveling through a thousand years; here I reunited with the relics from my textbooks! ✅ Haiyue Kaijin Haiyue Kaijin is the most magnificent group of buildings among all the pavilions. On a clear day, the water reflections overlap with the buildings, bringing to life the lines from Wang Wei’s poem: "Rows of trees meet in patterns, reflections enter the clear ripples." ✅ Wuzhu Pavilion Composed of five Western-style bamboo multi-eaved pavilions, the color scheme has a strong traditional Chinese charm~ ✅ Russian Pavilion You can see Russian-style architecture without leaving the country. The fairy-tale style lets you experience the architectural essence of multiple countries in one visit to the New Yuanming Palace! Chunyuan ✅ Hongci Yonghu Hongci Yonghu is tall and majestic with a solemn atmosphere. Its grandeur comes from its status as a royal ancestral hall. ✅ Tianchi Waterfall The most stunning scenery in the park is the Tianchi Waterfall. The entire waterfall is 150 meters wide and 30 meters high, roaring as it cascades down right beside you. ✅ Three Pools Mirroring the Moon One of the ten scenic spots of West Lake, this is what I think Chinese aesthetics are all about: pavilions, corridors, and winding paths leading to secluded spots. ✅ Pengdao Yaotai In the center of Fuhai Lake are three islands of different sizes: Fangzhang, Penglai, and Yingzhou. The buildings on the islands resemble fairy mountain pavilions. Seek immortality in the sea; the future is long. ✅ Lanting Pavilion Inspired by the ancient Lanting in Shaoxing, the "Flowing Cup Pavilion" is nestled in a bamboo forest. With green bamboo, square pavilions, flowing water, and stone benches, it creates a poetic and elegant retreat. Hengdian New Yuanming Palace made me travel back to that prosperous old dream. If you want to catch a glimpse of history, you must come here! Transportation: 🚗: 2.5 hours driving from Hangzhou 🚌: Direct buses to Hengdian Scenic Area from major bus stations in Hangzhou and Xiaoshan Airport 🚄: Take the train to Yiwu Station, then transfer to a shuttle bus to Hengdian

Who would have thought! As soon as you enter the Old Summer Palace, you’re speechless at the sight of this sea of peonies! Truly deserving of the saying "When flowers bloom, the capital stirs." The peonies cluster in varying heights, complemented by rockeries and bamboo fences, each glance feels like a moving fine brush painting, creating an immersive atmosphere~ 📌 Key points to note: ✅ The peonies at Lotus Pond are nearing the end of their bloom, so if you want to see them at their peak, head straight to the Hanjingtang area! ✅ Large areas of peonies are in full bloom, including the eye-catching yellow peony variety "Crown," bright and perfect for photos. ✅ The route is super convenient: enter from the East Gate, pass the black swan viewing area, cross a small bridge, and enter through the lakeside small entrance. Suddenly, a whole sea of flowers opens up—no detours needed! This spring, come to the Old Summer Palace for a peony rendezvous and capture the romantic springtime of Beijing all at once in your camera~

The cloudy Old Summer Palace is like a Song Dynasty poem torn to pieces. Without the passion of sunny days, only mist and pale pink flower shadows remain, falling on the pond’s surface, rippling gently with the koi fish. The wind passes through the sparse woods, carrying a hint of spring chill, just like the line in the poem: "Flowers freely flying lightly like dreams, endless silk rain fine as sorrow." 📍 Old Summer Palace 📸 The cold feeling captured on a cloudy day is truly stunning—white dress + flowering trees + pond water, naturally filtered.

Yuanmingyuan, located in Haidian District, Beijing, was once an imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty. Renowned as the "Garden of Gardens" for its vast scale and exquisite scenery, the site consists of three sections: Yuanmingyuan, Changchunyuan, and Qichunyuan. It blends Chinese and Western architectural styles, featuring elegant Chinese gardens alongside European landscapes. Although it was looted and burned in the 19th century, the ruins still retain their majestic layout, with exhibition halls showcasing precious artifacts and historical materials. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside, admire the remnants and reconstructed attractions, and experience the coexistence of grandeur and historical melancholy. 📸 Must-visit spot: The Western-style building ruins, with awe-inspiring stone columns and carvings! Recommended reasons: Rich history, unique scenery, and profound cultural significance make it an unmissable destination for exploring Beijing's culture.

Not sure where to take the whole family this weekend? Take my advice—go to the Old Summer Palace. A family of four: my wife, our seven-year-old daughter, and my parents in their sixties. We originally planned to take them to the Forbidden City, but my dad waved it off saying, "I've been to the Forbidden City three times already, it's boring." My wife casually suggested, "How about the Old Summer Palace?" My dad's eyes lit up—"Let's go! The Old Summer Palace it is!" Later, I realized this trip meant something completely different for each of the three age groups. · -- Basic Information ⏰ Recommendation: Arrive before 8:30 AM to avoid peak crowds 💰 Tickets: Main gate ticket 10 RMB, Western Mansions ruins (including the Grand Waterworks) 15 RMB, combined ticket 25 RMB 🚇 Transportation: Subway Line 4 → Exit B at Old Summer Palace Station, 5-minute walk; or Exit A at Old Summer Palace South Station, closer to the south gate 💡 Tips: Seniors over 60 get half price! Bring ID and senior card 💡 Tips: The park is large, electric carts and boats are available inside; boat rides are recommended (15 RMB/person) 💡 Tips: Book tickets in advance via the "Old Summer Palace Ruins Park" WeChat public account and scan the code to enter · -- 🌿 Enter from the South Gate: Start at Qichun Garden Entering from the south gate, you immediately see vast lotus flowers. We visited in mid-June; lotus leaves covered the lake surface, with pink and white flowers peeking out, trembling gently in the breeze. Our daughter saw such a large lotus pond for the first time and exclaimed, "Wow—" She had just learned the lesson "Lotus Flowers" in first grade, so this was like "textbook coming to life." Grandpa leisurely said, "I used to row a boat on this lake when I was young, and there weren't so many people back then." Grandma pulled out her phone and said, "Don't just talk, come take a photo!" · *From the very first minute in the park, grandma's phone never stopped clicking.** We walked through Qichun Garden, taking photos along the way. There were few tourists and the paths were flat, so grandpa and grandma walked easily. > 💡 Suggestion for seniors: Start with Qichun Garden; flat paths and fewer people make it a good warm-up. · -- 🏚️ Western Mansions Ruins: Grand Waterworks and Yuanying Pavilion Location: Northwest part of the main Old Summer Palace scenic area ⏰ Recommendation: Arrive around 10 AM for the best lighting 💡 Tips: The Western Mansions ruins require a separate ticket (15 RMB) or a combined ticket (25 RMB) 💡 Tips: Wear comfortable shoes; the ruins area has many gravel paths If Qichun Garden is beautiful, the Western Mansions ruins are awe-inspiring. Remaining stone pillars and arches stand on the lawn, with Baroque carvings faintly visible. Our daughter looked up and said, "Dad, was this castle destroyed by monsters?" Grandpa replied, "It was destroyed by people. Over 160 years ago." The atmosphere suddenly grew quiet. When we reached the Grand Waterworks, everyone stopped in their tracks. Huge white marble pillar ruins, like broken ribs pointing to the sky. Behind them were the ruins of Yuanying Pavilion, with the frame still hollow inside. Our daughter tugged my sleeve, "Dad, why did they destroy such a beautiful palace?" · *At that moment, I really didn’t know how to explain the "Tragedy of the Old Summer Palace" to a seven-year-old.** Grandpa crouched down and said to her, "Sweetheart, a long time ago, some bad people came from far away and burned this place down. That's why grandpa wants you to remember this place." My wife’s eyes welled up, quietly taking a photo of grandpa and granddaughter crouching in front of the pillars. **That photo later became the family’s favorite.** > 📸 Photo tip: Morning light is best for shooting here. · -- 🌊 Fuhai Lake: The most relaxing way is a boat ride Location: Central Old Summer Palace, very large area 💡 Tips: Boat rides 15 RMB/person, about 20 minutes around the lake 💡 Tips: Benches along the shore are perfect for seniors to rest My parents were tired, so we took a boat at the Fuhai dock. The four of us rented an electric boat and drifted slowly on the lake. The water was wide open, and our daughter, leaning on the bow, spotted some wild ducks and a white egret. Grandpa sighed, "This was where the emperor used to enjoy the moon. Now anyone can come here, which is great." Grandma added, "Didn't you say you wanted to see Western architecture in Europe?" Grandpa laughed, "This is Western-style architecture built by the Chinese themselves, better than going to Europe!" · *Those twenty minutes on Fuhai Lake were the most relaxing moment for the whole family.** > 💡 Electric boats cost 60 RMB/hour; electric ones save effort. · -- 🏯 Old Summer Palace Exhibition Hall: A scale model restores the original layout Location: Near Zhengjue Temple, free admission, highly recommended! A huge scale model of the Old Summer Palace, restoring the entire garden—**five times larger than the Forbidden City!** Over a hundred scenic spots, lakes, rockeries, palaces, theaters, mazes... it’s basically a royal city. Our daughter stared at the model for ten minutes, constantly saying, "Wow, this is so pretty," "Wow, there’s even a maze." Grandpa looked at it for a long time and said, "If only it hadn’t been burned back then." Outside the exhibition hall, the sun was shining brightly. Our daughter hopped ahead, while my parents walked hand in hand behind. My wife said, "Your parents are in a really good mood today." I said, "The Old Summer Palace means something different to them. They learned about it in textbooks as kids, and today they finally saw it with their own eyes." · -- 🌸 Little Highlights · *Daughter**: Found an orange cat sunbathing on a broken pillar in the ruins area, talked to it for five minutes, and was reluctant to leave when grandpa pulled her away. · *Grandma**: Took over 200 photos, posted three rounds on WeChat Moments, and made a short video set to "My Motherland and I," getting over 50 likes in the family group. · *Grandpa**: Told historical stories all the way, from Kangxi’s founding of the garden to the Anglo-French allied forces, even more professional than me. Our daughter said, "Grandpa knows so much." · *Wife**: Brought sandwiches and fruit, had a picnic by Fuhai Lake, which was more economical than eating at the park restaurant. · -- 🌟 Recommended Route (Family-friendly) | Time | Itinerary | Notes | |-------|----------------------------------|----------------------------| | 8:30 | Enter South Gate → Qichun Garden | Start with quiet area warm-up | | 9:30 | Walk through Fuhai area → Buy tickets for Western Mansions | About 15 minutes walk | | 10:00 | Grand Waterworks, Yuanying Pavilion, Haiyantang | Core ruins area, key spots | | 11:00 | Exhibition Hall → Scale model | Free admission, highly worth it | | 11:30 | Boat ride on Fuhai Lake → Rest | 20-minute boat ride, loved by seniors and kids | | 12:00 | Picnic by Fuhai / Park restaurant | Bringing your own food is economical | | 13:30 | Lion Forest → Pengdao Yaotai | Continue if you have energy | | 14:30 | Exit from East Gate | Subway station nearby | 💡 Practical Tips 🎫 Tickets · Main gate: 10 RMB · Western Mansions ruins: 15 RMB · Combined ticket (main gate + ruins + exhibition): 25 RMB · **Seniors over 60 get half price!** Bring ID · **Children under 1.2 meters enter free** · Book in advance via WeChat public account, scan code to enter 🚗 Transportation · Subway: Line 4, Old Summer Palace Station Exit B or Old Summer Palace South Station Exit A · Driving: Navigate to "Old Summer Palace South Gate Parking Lot"; parking is tight on weekends, subway recommended 🍜 Dining · Few restaurant options in the park and prices are high (30-50 RMB per person) · **Recommend bringing your own snacks and fruit**, picnic by Fuhai Lake is a great experience 👟 Clothing · **The park is very large, expect to walk 30,000-40,000 steps!** · Wear comfortable shoes, very important · Bring a sun hat and sunscreen; many areas have no shade · Bring a light jacket; it can be windy by the lake 👨‍👩‍👧 Tips for Kids · The ruins area has many gravel paths, strollers are inconvenient; best for kids who can walk · Audio guides available in the park (20 RMB/device), with a children’s version · Lotus season (June-August) is the most beautiful but also the busiest · Autumn ginkgo and red leaf season (October-November) is also highly recommended 👴 Tips for Seniors · Electric carts available inside (10-15 RMB per ride), get on whenever tired · Focus on Qichun Garden and Western Mansions; other areas can be skipped · Bring a folding stool or find benches to rest; there are many benches in the park · Restrooms are well distributed but some areas have longer distances between them · -- 💬 Final Words Taking the whole family to the Old Summer Palace was the best decision my wife made. For our daughter, the "Lotus Flower" lesson from her textbook came alive, and the ruins became a story about "protection." For my parents, the Old Summer Palace was a name they remembered from textbooks, and today they finally saw it with their own eyes—not just scenery, but memories spanning generations. For the two of us, seeing three generations on the same lake and in front of the same ruins, each having their own reflections—this kind of experience cannot be offered by any commercial attraction. · *The Old Summer Palace is not just a park, nor just a ruin. It is an open history book, and people of every age can read different meanings from it.** Take your kids, and you read beauty and appreciation. Take your parents, and you read memory and emotion.