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China — Beijing Attractions
Summer Palace
Summer Palace
— Summer Retreat
Emperor
Qianlong created the Summer Palace in the 18th century. It
was burned down by the British and French allied forces in 1860,
and
renovated by the Empress
Dowager
Ci
Xi in
1895.
The
Summer Palace
was once the exclusive Summer Retreat for the Imperial Family.
Largest Imperial Garden
in China
Today, the Summer Palace is one of Beijing's favorite tourist
destinations. It is also one of the best parks in the city — and
the largest Imperial Garden in China.
Its natural landscape is a paradise of hills
and waters, combined with beautiful pavilions, halls, palaces,
temples and bridges. "Central Park" of Beijing
The Summer Palace opened in 1924 as a "park for
the people." Popular with tourists and locals alike, people come
here to enjoy boating on the lake, strolling, and picnicking in
the gardens — think of it as the "Central Park of Beijing" where
locals come to play and have FUN.
Tips
Arrive early as it gets
very crowded, especially during weekends. The Summer Palace
has two entrances, but the majority of visitors use the East
Palace Gate.
There's so much to do and see at the Summer Palace,
so be prepared for a lot of walking and be sure to wear comfortable
shoes.
Top
|
Summer Palace "Combo Tours" departing
from Beijing
Summer
Palace "Combo"
Tours
- Beijing Classic Full-Day Tour including Forbidden
City, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven
- Beijng Historical Tour including Forbidden City, Tiananmen
Square and Temple of Heaven
Long
Corridor
The Summer Palace grounds cover a square
mile and include three lakes and the 2,400-ft "open" decorated
Long Corridor— the
longest walkway in the Chinese
gardens — where more than 14,000 paintings are displayed.
Longevity
Hall & Kumming Lake
The area consists of Longevity Hall and Kumming Lake. The lake
offers Boat Rides and Rowboats Rentals during much of the year. In the winter,
you can
rent ice skates.
Main scenic spots include the Tower of Buddhist
Incense, Hall of Dispelling Clouds, Long Corridor, Hall of Benevolence
and Longevity, 17-Arch Bridge, Garden of Harmonious Interests,
Suzhou Street and the Marble Boat.
Summer Palace Hours
Open daily 7am-6:30pm.
Admission fee.
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