In northwest Beijing’s Haidian District, the Summer Palace is a vast Qing-era garden of palaces, temples, bridges and landscaped grounds around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. Walk the decorated Long Corridor, see the historic halls and bridges, or take a boat across the lake. Climb toward the Tower of Buddhist Incense for broad views over the grounds, though the steep steps take effort. The complex is large enough to fill much of a day; allow at least half a day if you want time to explore beyond the main sights.
A Qing imperial garden
The Summer Palace, known in Chinese as Yiheyuan, is a former imperial retreat in Beijing’s Haidian District. Its gardens and buildings spread around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, bringing together water, slopes, bridges, temples, pavilions and halls. The setting was designed as a landscape garden, with built structures placed among the natural features rather than separated from them.
The site has a long history, with imperial connections reaching back to the Jin dynasty. Emperor Qianlong expanded it in the 18th century, and Qing rulers used it as a summer refuge from the heat of the old city. It was also a place where the emperor and court could attend to state matters. The garden was badly damaged during conflict in 1860 and rebuilt later in the 19th century. Much of what visitors see today reflects those restorations.
Walk the Long Corridor
The Long Corridor runs along the lake beneath a covered roof. Its painted panels show scenes from Chinese stories and history, adding detail to a walk with views toward Kunming Lake. Take time to look up at the decoration as you go; the corridor is a sight in its own right, not simply a route between other buildings.
Elsewhere in the grounds, bridges cross the water and connect different parts of the garden. The 17-Arch Bridge leads toward an island, while the Marble Boat sits by the lakeshore. The combination of water, painted walkways and traditional buildings gives the complex a different character from a visit focused only on palace interiors.
Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill
Kunming Lake occupies much of the garden and is central to the views across the site. You can walk beside it or take a boat ride; boats operate from several locations, and a ride can also help you cross the water. Payment for some rentals may require scanning a QR code with a smartphone app, so check the arrangements before setting off.
Longevity Hill rises above the lake, with temples and other buildings along the climb. The Tower of Buddhist Incense is a major landmark on the slope. Reaching it involves a steep stair climb, but the elevated position gives you a wide view over the lake, bridges and palace grounds. Pace yourself if you plan to visit the hill, particularly alongside a long walk around the water.
Planning your route
The grounds are extensive, with several attractions spread across the park. Trying to cover every path, building and lakeside stretch in one visit can be tiring. Choose a few priorities in advance, such as the Long Corridor, a boat ride and the hilltop buildings, then leave room for the distance between them. Walking the full perimeter of the lake can take several hours, before adding time for uphill paths or indoor stops.
Some attractions within the complex, including Suzhou Street and the Tower of Buddhist Incense, may require a combined ticket. Check the ticket options before you enter if you want to visit these areas. The grounds have multiple gates and winding paths, so plan your route before leaving an area you especially want to see. Early arrival gives you more time to explore before the busiest part of the day.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I spend at the Summer Palace?
Allow at least half a day for a visit, or longer if you want to explore widely. Walking around the lake can take several hours on its own.
Can you take a boat on Kunming Lake?
Yes. Boats are available from several points around the lake, and a ride can take you across the water. Some rentals require payment by scanning a QR code with a smartphone app.
Is the climb to the Tower of Buddhist Incense difficult?
The route includes steep steps. The climb takes effort, and the tower area gives elevated views across Kunming Lake and the grounds.
Do you need a combined ticket for the Summer Palace?
Some attractions inside the complex, including Suzhou Street and the Tower of Buddhist Incense, may be covered by combined tickets. Check the ticket options if you plan to enter them.
