A Timeless Imperial Retreat
The Summer Palace (Yiheyuan, 颐和园) is China’s largest and best-preserved royal garden, celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1998) for its harmonious fusion of nature and architecture. Originally built in 1750 as the Garden of Clear Ripples for Emperor Qianlong’s mother, it was later expanded by Empress Dowager Cixi into a lavish summer retreat.
Key Features
- Kunming Lake (75% of the park): Modeled after Hangzhou’s West Lake, it features the Seventeen-Arch Bridge and Nanhu Island, symbolizing mythical Penglai.
- Longevity Hill: Anchored by the Tower of Buddhist Incense, this area integrates Tibetan-style temples and panoramic views.
- Long Corridor: A 728-meter covered walkway adorned with 14,000+ paintings of Chinese legends and landscapes.
- Marble Boat: A 36-meter pavilion with a sophisticated drainage system, representing imperial resilience.
Historical Turbulence
- 1860: Destroyed by Anglo-French forces during the Second Opium War.
- 1888: Rebuilt by Cixi using misappropriated navy funds, renamed Yiheyuan ("Garden of Health and Harmony").
- 1900: Looted by the Eight-Nation Alliance, restored by 1902.
Cultural Significance
- Design Philosophy: Embodies "man-made works matching nature", blending Daoist harmony with imperial grandeur.
- Ethnic Fusion: Features Tibetan temples (Xiangyan Zongyin Zhige) and Suzhou-style market streets.
Visitor Tips
- Hours: 6:30–20:00 (Apr–Oct), 7:00–19:00 (Nov–Mar).
- Tickets: ¥30 (entrance), ¥60 (full access, peak season).
- Transport: Bus 303/332 to East Gate; Metro 4号线 to Beigongmen Station.
For real-time updates, check Summer Palace Official Site.
