Absolutely stunning! The entire park is one of the most impressive sights I have ever witnessed. Watching the sunset by the water with views of the palace was simply breathtaking. It is definitely worth climbing the hill to view it from different angles.
Make sure to dedicate plenty of time; I suggest at least 3 hours since the park is quite large and you won’t want to feel rushed. While there weren’t a lot of foreigners around, I received curious looks, but everyone was really friendly.
The Summer Palace is a vast and breathtaking destination, requiring at least 3 to 4 hours to fully appreciate this amazing site.
We easily reached the palace by subway, exiting at Beigongmen Station. Entering from the north side, we were immediately attracted to the charming Suzhou Street and the calming Suzhou River, which set the mood for our visit.
Our exploration continued with a climb up many steps to the stunning Tower of Buddhist Incense, where we enjoyed incredible views of the surrounding area. We then wandered down to the renowned Long Corridor, admiring its intricate artwork and designs.
One of the highlights was the ferry tour on Kunming Lake, giving us a unique view of the palace grounds. The ferry also stops at the picturesque Marco Polo Bridge, which is another spot worth checking out.
For our final stop, we climbed to the top of the Tower of Incense, rewarded with an amazing panoramic view of Kunming Lake and the nearby landscape.
The Summer Palace is truly a wonder of natural beauty and cultural significance. Be it soaking in the views, appreciating the historical architecture, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, this site is a must-see in Beijing.
A stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the grandeur of China. It covers extensive grounds with picturesque lakes, traditional pavilions, and intricately designed bridges, offering a tranquil escape from the busy city. The views from Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake are breathtaking, especially at sunrise or sunset. Wandering through the beautifully crafted pathways and discovering iconic landmarks like the Marble Boat and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge feels like stepping back in history. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the richness of culture and natural beauty in Beijing.
Alice Johnson
United States
A fantastic destination to visit during sunrise or sunset. Our group arrived at sunset on a perfectly clear day and enjoyed a stunning golden sunset behind the mountains. The glow beautifully illuminated the palace and the water. This large, picturesque area is well maintained, featuring gorgeous gardens, but can get quite crowded, particularly along the waterfront, so be cautious of mosquitoes.
A great spot for a walk, even in winter. The location is vast, so expect to do a lot of walking. You can enjoy nice views of the surrounding landscape once you reach the top of the hills. Some areas were more crowded than others.
