Summer Palace an Imperial Garden in Beijing

Summer Palace: A Magnificent Imperial Garden in Beijing

Welcome to the captivating world of the Summer Palace (Chinese: 颐和园; pinyin: Yíhéyuán), one of the most renowned attractions in China’s capital city, Beijing. This expansive imperial garden, with a history dating back over 800 years, offers a unique blend of Chinese palaces, gardens, and traditional architecture combined with Western influences—a testament to the cultural fusion during the Qing Dynasty.

Brief History

The roots of the Summer Palace can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), when a small royal garden was established for Emperor Kublai Khan on the shores of Kunming Lake, in the northwestern suburbs of Beijing. However, it wasn’t until the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) that the Summer Palace began to take its current shape and significance.

The Summer Palace as we know it today was first constructed during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the mid-18th century. It underwent significant expansion and renovation during the reign of Emperor Guangxu, particularly following a fire in 1860 that destroyed much of the original structure.

Layout and Architecture

The Summer Palace covers an area of approximately 290 hectares (720 acres), with its layout centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill (乾清山; Qiánqīng Shān). The lake, the longest artificial lake in Beijing, stretches over 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) and is adorned with islands, bridges, and pavilions.

Longevity Hill rises to a height of 75 meters (246 feet), offering visitors breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Atop the hill lies the Temple of Heaven’s Virtue (乾坤寺; Qiánkūn Sì), a popular attraction that houses several halls dedicated to the worship of heavenly deities.

The palace complex is divided into three main areas: the Front Hill (前阴; Qiányīn), the Rear Hill (后阴; Hòuyīn), and the lake area. Each area boasts a unique collection of architectural masterpieces, such as the Marble Boat (玉船; Yù Chūan) on Kunming Lake and the Long Corridor (长廊; Chángláng), stretching over 700 meters (2,300 feet) along the waterfront.

Key Attractions

  1. Temple of Heaven’s Virtue: This temple complex sits atop Longevity Hill and is dedicated to the worship of the gods of heaven. The intricate carvings and designs on the temple halls showcase the masterful craftsmanship of Qing Dynasty artisans.

  2. Long Corridor: Also known as the Long Gallery, this wooden corridor stretches for 700 meters along the waterfront of Kunming Lake. It houses thousands of paintings and calligraphy works by famous artists of the Qing Dynasty.

  3. Marble Boat: This ornate boat is made from white marble and jade, with a unique design that represents the imperial dragon ship. The boat is moored on Kunming Lake, surrounded by the serene waters and lush greenery of the Summer Palace.

  4. Baji Temple: Located at the foot of Longevity Hill, Baji Temple was originally built during the Yuan Dynasty to honor the Five Emperors, who were believed to have created the world in Chinese mythology. The temple underwent renovations during the Qing Dynasty and now serves as a museum showcasing various religious artifacts.

  5. Hall of Benevolence and Longevity: This grand hall is located on the eastern shore of Kunming Lake and was once used by emperors for ceremonies and audiences with officials. The intricate wood carvings, painted murals, and delicate porcelain decorations make it a must-visit attraction in the Summer Palace.

Visitor Information

  1. Opening Hours: The Summer Palace is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (extended to 6:30 PM during the summer months). Closing times may vary on certain holidays, so it’s best to check the official website for up-to-date information.

  2. Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is 30 CNY per person (as of 2021). Additional fees may apply for visiting certain attractions within the palace complex, such as boat rides on Kunming Lake.

  3. How to Get There: The Summer Palace can be easily reached by taking subway Line 4 and getting off at Beigongmen Station or Xihai’an Station. From there, buses and shuttle services are available to the entrance of the palace.

  4. Recommended Itinerary: Spend about 3-4 hours exploring the main attractions of the Summer Palace, such as Longevity Hill, the Long Corridor, and Kunming Lake. If time allows, you can also visit the Garden of Virtue and Harmony (德和园; Déhé Yuán) or the Imperial Boat National Palace Museum (皇船国立博物馆; Huáng Chuán Guólì Bówùguǎn).

We hope this guide helps you better understand the rich history, architecture, and attractions of the Summer Palace in Beijing. This magnificent imperial garden is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor seeking to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and history. Enjoy your trip!

Summer Palace: An Imperial Gem in the Heart of Beijing

Welcome to the Summer Palace (Chinese: 颐和园; pinyin: Yíhéyuán), a breathtaking imperial garden and UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a unique blend of Chinese palatial culture, landscaping, and architecture. Located in the western outskirts of Beijing, this sprawling complex is an essential destination for anyone interested in exploring China’s rich history and artistic achievements.

Brief History

Originally built as a modest royal garden during the reign of Emperor Qianlong (1736-1795), the Summer Palace underwent significant expansion during the late 18th and early 19th centuries under Empress Dowager Cixi. After the disastrous Eight-Nation Alliance bombardment of Beijing in 1860, it became the main royal residence for the Qing dynasty emperors.

Tragically, during the Boxer Rebellion (1899-1901), the Summer Palace was ransacked and left in ruins. Its restoration began under Empress Dowager Longyu in 1902 and continued under successive imperial administrations until the fall of the Qing dynasty in 1912. Today, the Summer Palace stands as a testament to the grandeur and artistry of China’s imperial past.

Layout and Design

The Summer Palace covers an area of approximately 2.9 square kilometers (1.1 sq mi) and is divided into three main sections: the Imperial Garden, the Royal Gardens, and the Garden of Harmonious Interest. Each section showcases a unique blend of landscaping, architecture, and artistry that reflects the tastes, aspirations, and political climate of their respective eras.

Imperial Garden (皇甄园)

The Imperial Garden lies at the heart of the Summer Palace and was where the emperors conducted official business and held court. The most notable structure in this area is the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity (庚子堂; Qūzitáng), which houses a magnificent throne that was used during the Qing dynasty’s reign.

Royal Gardens (御花园)

The Royal Gardens were reserved for the use of the imperial family and their close associates. This area features numerous pavilions, halls, and courtyards, each with its own unique charm and function. The Temple of Buddhist Virtue (佛明殿; Fó Míng Diàn) is particularly noteworthy for its exquisite wood carvings and painted murals.

Garden of Harmonious Interest (和畜园)

The Garden of Harmonious Interest is a vast area filled with lakes, pavilions, bridges, and temples that were designed to evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony between humans and nature. The most iconic structure in this section is the Marble Boat (玉龙江; Yùlóng Jiāng), a stunning replica of an ancient Chinese junk boat made entirely out of marble.

Must-See Attractions

Longevity Hill (寿山; Shòushān)

Longevity Hill is the central geographical feature of the Summer Palace, rising 60 meters (197 feet) above the surrounding landscape. Climbing to its summit offers breathtaking views of the entire park and provides a unique perspective on the intricate layout of this imperial masterpiece.

Kunming Lake (昆明湖; Kūnmíng Hú)

Kunming Lake is the largest lake within the Summer Palace, covering an area of approximately 2.2 square kilometers (0.85 sq mi). It was designed to evoke the image of China’s famous West Lake in Hangzhou and serves as a stunning backdrop for many of the park’s most iconic structures.

Long Corridor (长廊; Chángláng)

The Long Corridor is a 700-meter (2,300 feet)-long walkway that stretches along the eastern shore of Kunming Lake. Decorated with over 14,000 paintings and 40,000 calligraphic works, this unique architectural wonder provides visitors with a glimpse into the artistic achievements of China’s imperial past.

Practical Information for Visitors

Opening Hours

The Summer Palace is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM). During Chinese public holidays, the park may extend its hours or close early without notice. It is recommended that visitors check the official website or contact the tourist information hotline for the most up-to-date opening hours.

Admission Fee

As of 2021, the admission fee for the Summer Palace is CNY 30 (approximately USD 4.60) per person. Children under 1.2 meters (3.9 feet) in height are granted free admission.

Transportation

The Summer Palace can be easily reached by public transportation from central Beijing. Take Subway Line 4 to the Beigongmen Station and transfer to Bus No. 3 or 103, which will take you directly to the entrance of the park. Alternatively, taxis are readily available and offer a more convenient but pricier option for travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Palace is an awe-inspiring testament to China’s imperial past and a must-see destination for any visitor to Beijing. Its stunning landscapes, architectural wonders, and rich cultural heritage offer a unique insight into the tastes, aspirations, and artistic achievements of China’s imperial court.

As you explore this magnificent park, take a moment to appreciate its beauty, history, and the craftsmanship that went into creating such an exquisite masterpiece. And remember, the Summer Palace is not just a garden – it’s a living, breathing embodiment of China’s imperial past, present, and future.