The Summer Palace in Beijing, China, is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese landscape design and a must-visit destination for history and nature lovers. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a unique blend of stunning gardens, grand pavilions, and serene lakes that reflect the imperial lifestyle of the Qing Dynasty. With over 700 acres of carefully crafted beauty, the palace represents centuries of Chinese culture and architectural ingenuity.
Visitors to the Summer Palace can explore a variety of scenic spots, each offering its own charm. From peaceful Kunming Lake to the majestic Longevity Hill, the palace is filled with picturesque views and historical treasures. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking both tranquility and a glimpse into China’s rich heritage.
Here are some Best Places to Visit in Summer Palace, China
1. Kunming Lake:
Kunming Lake One of the Summer Palace’s most recognizable features, Kunming Lake, is man-made and inspired by Hangzhou’s West Lake. It provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city, especially in the summer when the sparkling waters and refreshing breezes entice visitors to walk along the shoreline for breathtaking views or take a boat ride to explore its beauty.
2. Longevity Hill:
With its majestic ascent above Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill offers breathtaking views of the palace complex and its environs. Hikers can ascend the hill to see important buildings like Beijing’s Tower of Buddhist Incense and take in expansive vistas of the city. The hill is full of old halls, pavilions, and passageways, each with a special historical significance. A serene way to appreciate the Summer Palace’s beauty is to stroll along its shaded pathways.
3. The Long Corridor:
A well-known feature of the Summer Palace is the Long Corridor, a covered walkway spanning 728 meters that is embellished with more than 14,000 vibrant paintings. These paintings feature a variety of historical events, natural landscapes, and scenes from Chinese folklore. While taking a shaded stroll through the Long Corridor and taking in views of the palace gardens on one side and Kunming Lake on the other, visitors can immerse themselves in Chinese art and culture.
4. Marble Boat:
The Marble Boat, also called the “Boat of Purity and Ease,” is a stone building that can be found near Kunming Lake’s northern border. It’s a boat, but it’s stationary and made completely of marble. With its exquisite design that captures the grandeur of imperial China, it represents the stability of the Qing Dynasty. During a visit to the Summer Palace, the boat is a popular location for capturing unforgettable photos and an intriguing architectural marvel.
5. The Tower of Buddhist Incense:
The focal point of Longevity Hill is the imposing, three-story octagonal Tower of Buddhist Incense. Constructed under the rule of Emperor Qianlong, the structure functions as a sanctuary and a representation of wealth and harmony. Aside from a fulfilling spiritual experience, ascending the tower’s stairs offers a rewarding view of the whole Summer Palace complex, which includes Kunming Lake and the surrounding hills.
6. Suzhou Street:
Suzhou Street is a charming neighborhood that mimics the streets and canals of Suzhou, a well-known water town in China. It is situated behind Longevity Hill. This street, which is lined with antique stores and bridges, offers a window into everyday life in ancient China. Visitors can enjoy a distinctive fusion of history and entertainment as they stroll along the canals, peruse the shops, and even engage in interactive activities
7. The Garden of Virtue and Harmony:
Chinese opera performances were originally hosted by the imperial family on the stage of the Garden of Virtue and Harmony. This portion of the palace has stunning architecture, verdant gardens, and an amazing theater that is still used for live performances. Discovering this region offers tourists an opportunity to see traditional Chinese performance arts as well as a taste of the opulent lifestyle that the emperors of the Qing Dynasty enjoyed.
8. The Hall of Benevolence and Longevity:
Since the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity served as the political center of the Summer Palace complex, it is among the most significant buildings there. During the late Qing Dynasty, Emperor Guangxu held court and met with officials in this hall. History buffs should not miss the hall because of its magnificent architecture that captures the opulence of the era and its interior filled with priceless historical artifacts.
9. Seventeen-Arch Bridge:
An amazing building that links Nanhu Island and Kunming Lake’s eastern shore is the Seventeen-Arch Bridge. With 17 arches that produce breathtaking reflections on the lake’s surface, this bridge is the longest in the Summer Palace. Photographers and tourists alike like to visit the bridge because of its more than 500 intricately carved stone lions and gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding areas.
10. L’île de Nanhu:
The Seventeen-Arch Bridge leads to Nanhu Island, a serene hideaway inside Summer Palace. The island offers stunning views of Kunming Lake, gardens, and pavilions. Take a leisurely stroll around the island, enjoy the peace and quiet, and marvel at the harmonious fusion of architecture and nature that characterizes the Summer Palace. It’s the ideal spot to unwind and think after touring the palace’s numerous historical locations.
Conclusion
The Summer Palace is a remarkable destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. From the serene waters of Kunming Lake to the majestic Tower of Buddhist Incense, every corner of this imperial retreat reflects the grandeur of ancient China. Exploring its gardens, pavilions, and bridges allows visitors to step back in time and experience the richness of Chinese culture.
For international travelers, obtaining a China visa is essential before embarking on this unforgettable journey. A visit to the Summer Palace is a must for anyone looking to dive deep into China’s historical treasures and enjoy a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Beijing. The Summer Palace promises an enriching experience filled with beauty and cultural heritage.
