Summer Palace / 颐和园

China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden, centered around Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, was inspired by classical southern Chinese gardens.

Why Visit

Considered the finest imperial garden in China
Stunning lake scenery
Beautiful pavilions, bridges, temples, and palace halls

Suggested Duration

4–5 hours

Best Visiting Time

08:30–08:00 or 15:00–18:00 (Morning for cooler temperatures, Afternoon for better sunset bathes Kunming Lake and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge)

Suitable For

Nature lovers
Couples

Tips

Enter from the East Palace Gate and finish at the North Palace Gate if using public transport
Purchase the combined ticket if you plan to visit interior attractions such as the Tower of Buddhist Incense
Take a boat ride across Kunming Lake

Admission Type

Paid Ticket

Reservation Required

Reservation Max.

It is recommended to make a reservation during peak seasons. Official tickets can be purchased 1–7 days in advance through the official Summer Palace WeChat account or the Changyou Gongyuan (畅游公园) platform.

Opening Hours

April 1st–October 31st: 6:00 to 20:00 (Last entry for the park is 19:00, while last entry for the gardens within the park is 17:30)
November 1st–March 31st: 06:30–19:00 (Last entry for the park is 18:00, while last entry for the gardens within the park is 16:30)