The Summer Palace was built as an escape from Beijing’s summer heat. The UNESCO listed it in 1998. In the 19th century, Empress Dowager Cixi had it rebuilt using funds earmarked for the imperial navy. The result is one of China’s finest surviving examples of imperial garden design: a lake surrounded by hills, temples, and 4 km of ornamental waterways, all within a walled complex 4 km northwest of the city center.
On a clear October morning, the lake reflects Longevity Hill and the Buddhist temple above it. For the Beijing itinerary context: Beijing Travel Guide.
Key Takeaways
- Go on a weekday. Summer Palace crowds on weekends are heavy.
- Metro Line 4 to Beigongmen. 30 to 45 minutes from central Beijing.
- Entry ¥30 to ¥40. Through ticket ¥60 to ¥80.
- Long Corridor (728 metres): walk the full length.
- Rent a rowboat for 30 minutes on Kunming Lake.
- China Metro Guide: Metro guide.
The Route
Start: South Lake Island
Enter from the East Gate (Dongzhi Gate, metro Line 4 alternative stop). Walk the causeway to South Lake Island. The Dragon King Temple sits at the center. The view back to Longevity Hill from the island’s south side is the classic Summer Palace photograph.
Long Corridor
Return to the north shore and walk west along the Long Corridor. 728 metres of covered walkway decorated with 14,000 painted scenes. The paintings show landscapes, mythological scenes, and episodes from Chinese literature. The corridor was built so that Empress Dowager Cixi could take exercise regardless of weather. Walking its full length takes 45 minutes.
Longevity Hill (万寿山)
Midway along the Long Corridor, stairs lead up Longevity Hill. The summit is marked by the Tower of Buddhist Incense (Foxiang Ge), a four-storey tower on a high stone platform. The view from the tower over Kunming Lake and the surrounding parkland is the best elevated view in the Summer Palace. Admission to the tower is included in the through ticket.
Marble Boat
At the western end of the Long Corridor, the Marble Boat sits at the lake’s edge. It is not actually marble (the hull is stone; the upper deck is wood). Cixi held banquets here. The symbolism of spending naval funds on a stationary boat was noted at the time. The western part of the complex beyond the Marble Boat is much quieter and worth exploring.
Boats on Kunming Lake
Rowboat rental: ¥40 to ¥60 per 30 minutes. Available from the east shore boat dock. You row yourself. Midweek mornings are best: few other boats, clear water, the hill reflecting in the surface. The ferry service (¥20 per person) runs between the East Gate dock and South Lake Island. It covers the same water more quickly but with less freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions
For Beijing overview: Beijing Travel Guide. For the 5-day Beijing itinerary: 5-Day Beijing Itinerary. For metro navigation: China Metro Guide.