The Summer Palace

A masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

5A National Scenic Area

06:00-20:00Closed on Some interior gardens closed on Mondays

Last entry: 19:00Peak season (Apr 1-Oct 31) hours extend to 20:00; off-peak season (Nov 1-Mar 31) hours are 06:30-19:00. Interior gardens (e.g., Tower of Buddhist Incense) typically open 08:00-17:00 (peak) or 08:30-16:30 (off-peak).

About This Place

The Summer Palace is the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China, modeled after the West Lake in Hangzhou and incorporating the finest elements of Jiangnan garden design. Stroll through its grounds to admire the harmonious layout of Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake, along with exquisite structures like the Long Corridor and the Tower of Buddhist Incense. Plan to spend at least half a day to fully appreciate its imperial grandeur and horticultural artistry.

Highlights

Ascend the Tower of Buddhist Incense for a panoramic view over Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill

Walk the 728-meter Long Corridor, adorned with over 14,000 intricate paintings

Visit the Seventeen-Arch Bridge and witness the 'Golden Light Piercing the Holes' phenomenon (best at dusk in winter)

Explore Suzhou Street, a recreation of a Qing-dynasty waterside market in Jiangnan style

Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake to appreciate the garden's layout from the water

Best Time to Visit

April-May, September-October

Spring brings blooming flowers, while autumn offers clear, crisp weather—both ideal for visiting. Arrive early on weekdays to avoid crowds and allocate 4-6 hours for a thorough exploration.

Avoid Chinese Holidays

Strongly avoid Golden Week (Oct 1-7), Chinese New Year (late Jan/Feb), and Labor Day (May 1-5). Crowds are extreme and tickets often sell out weeks in advance.

Ticket Information

CNY 30per person

Advance Booking Required

Tickets can be purchased via the official WeChat account "SummerPalace" or at on-site ticket windows. Peak season entry is 30 RMB, off-peak is 20 RMB. Additional tickets or a through-pass are required for interior gardens (Tower of Buddhist Incense, Garden of Virtue and Harmony, Suzhou Street, Summer Palace Museum). Note that some interior gardens are closed on Mondays (except national holidays). Booking online in advance is recommended to skip queues.