Summer Palace, An Imperial Garden In Beijing

Title: Exploring the Enchanting Summer Palace: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Introduction

Welcome to Beijing, a city steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage. Among its many marvels, none is more breathtaking than the Summer Palace - an Imperial Garden that reflects China’s long history and unique architectural styles. This blog post will guide you through this magical destination, offering insights on what to visit, where to eat, where to stay, and other captivating experiences tailored for tourists.

The Enchanting Summer Palace

Located in the northwestern outskirts of Beijing, the Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Originally built as a royal retreat during the Qing Dynasty, it boasts numerous palaces, gardens, and other architectural delights nestled among serene lakes and rolling hills.

Must-Visit Spots

  1. Emperor’s Boat: A majestic wooden boat that once carried the Emperor across Kunming Lake.
  2. Long Corridor: Over 700 meters long, this corridor features more than 14,000 paintings and 850 calligraphic inscriptions.
  3. Longevity Hill (Wanshou Shan): Climb to the top for panoramic views of the palace and its surrounding landscape.
  4. Marble Boat: A replica of an ancient Egyptian boat, nestled on a hillside overlooking Kunming Lake.

Dining Delights

Beijing’s culinary scene offers a delectable mix of traditional and contemporary dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

  1. Quanjude: Famous for its Peking Duck, this restaurant has been serving up this Beijing specialty since 1864.
  2. Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao (Beijing): Indulge in delicious Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and hand-pulled noodles at this popular Singaporean chain’s Beijing location.
  3. Yi Dian Xin: A popular spot for local street food, including jiaozi (dumplings), zhongzi (sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves), and chuan (skewered snacks).

Accommodation Options

Beijing offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s budget and preference.

  1. The Opposite House: A stylish, modern hotel that blends contemporary design with traditional Chinese influences.
  2. Courtyard by Marriott Beijing: Housed in an ancient courtyard, this luxurious hotel offers a unique blend of history and comfort.
  3. Jinjiang Inn: Budget-friendly hotels located throughout the city, perfect for those traveling on a tight budget.

Activities & Tips

  1. Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the palace from a different perspective.
  2. Visit during Chinese holidays: Witness traditional performances and cultural exhibitions during festivals such as Mid-Autumn Festival or Dragon Boat Festival.
  3. Hire a local guide: Enhance your experience by learning about the Summer Palace’s rich history and hidden stories from a knowledgeable guide.
  4. Pack appropriate clothing: The palace can be hot and humid during summer months, so remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes.

Conclusion

The Summer Palace is more than just an Imperial Garden; it’s a living testament to China’s imperial past, a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling city, and a feast for the senses. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit and creates unforgettable memories of this extraordinary destination.

Happy travels! 😊