The Summer Palace

Located in the western suburbs of Beijing, the Summer Palace is the pride of Chinese classical gardens. It was listed in the "World Heritage List" on December 2, 1998. The Summer Palace is composed of the Wanshou Mountain and Kunming Lake, with the Wanshou Mountain providing a picturesque backdrop and the entire garden integrating architecture with the natural landscape of the mountains and lakes. The Summer Palace is divided into three main areas: the political activity area centered on the Renshou Hall, the imperial life area mainly consisting of the Yulan Pavilion and Laoshuai Pavilion, and the scenic tourist area composed of the Wanshou Mountain and Kunming Lake. One particular highlight of the Summer Palace is a fairytale-like purple waterfall located amidst the Long Corridor. The waterfall flows down a narrow stream, with purple flowers blooming on fine vines, creating a romantic and captivating scene.

To visit the Summer Palace, you can take the following transportation:

To reach the West Gate: Take bus 469 or 539 to the Summer Palace West Gate stop.

To reach the North Gate: Take subway line 4 to the Beixianmen D station, or take bus 303, 332, 346, 384, 394, or 563 to the Summer Palace North Gate stop.

To reach the East Gate: Take subway line 4 to the Xiyuan station and exit at gates C1 or C2, or take bus 303, 332, 346, 584, or night bus 8 to the Summer Palace stop.

To reach the New Palace Gate: Take bus 374, 437, or 74 to the Summer Palace New Palace Gate stop.

The Summer Palace is a must-visit attraction in Beijing, with its unique design and historical significance making it a popular destination for both local residents and tourists alike. The beautiful scenery and exquisite architecture will surely leave you in complete awe. Please be advised that the best time to visit is during daylight hours. During peak tourist seasons (from April 1 to October 31), adult tickets are priced at 30 yuan while concessions are available for children under 6 years old or individuals under 1.2 meters tall (free admission), as well as for holders of the "Beijing Tong Card" and for senior citizens aged 60 and above from other provinces (with valid IDs). For foreigners with permanent residency permits and foreign tourists, admission is free with valid证件). Additionally, discounts are available for minors between the ages of 6 and 18 (with valid IDs), students with full-time undergraduate degrees and below (with valid IDs), as well as for holders of social security cards.