Summer Palace
Visit the Summer Palace, Beijing's imperial garden with Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill, corridors, bridges, and official visitor information.
A Day at the Summer Palace
The Summer Palace is a UNESCO-listed imperial garden in Haidian District, but calling it a "garden" undersells it — this is a sprawling lakeside estate where emperors escaped Beijing's brutal summer heat. Kunming Lake takes up most of the space, with Longevity Hill rising behind it, connected by the world's longest covered corridor. It combines natural scenery, imperial architecture, and the best lake breeze you'll find in any Beijing park. Plan for at least half a day here — it's easy to lose track of time wandering along the water.
Key Visitor Facts
- Peak season April 1-October 31: entrance gate 06:00-19:00, whole park closes 20:00.
- Off season November 1-March 31: entrance gate 06:30-18:00, whole park closes 19:00.
- Peak ticket CNY 30; off-season ticket CNY 20.
- Combined ticket CNY 60 peak / CNY 50 off season.
- Metro: Xiyuan Station or Beigongmen Station on Line 4, depending on gate.
Planning Tips
- Start at the East Palace Gate if you want the classic Long Corridor and lakeside route.
- Allow 2-4 hours; a relaxed visit can take half a day.
- Wear comfortable shoes because the grounds are large.
- Check the official WeChat account for foreign-passport booking details if online booking is needed.
From Our Visit
I went on a scorching July afternoon when the temperature in central Beijing hit 38°C. Walking through the East Palace Gate, I felt the temperature drop at least five degrees the moment the lake came into view. The Long Corridor saved me — its 728 meters of painted beams provided continuous shade, and the cross-breeze off Kunming Lake was heaven. I sat on a bench near the Seventeen-Arch Bridge around 5 PM and watched the sun turn the water gold, the bridge's arches reflecting like a string of pearls. The marble boat at the north end felt touristy, but walking back along the western shore as the crowds thinned was the best part of my visit. One practical lesson I learned the hard way: my first two visits I bought only the garden ticket and regretted it both times — the combined ticket is worth it if you want to see the whole complex, especially the interior of the Hall of Benevolence and the tower on Longevity Hill. Skip the garden-only ticket unless you're just here for a lakeside stroll.
Nearby Attractions
Official Sources Used
Hours, ticket rules, and holiday arrangements can change. Check the official source before you travel.