How Long to Spend at the Summer Palace: A Guided Itinerary
The Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Beijing, China, is a magnificent blend of natural beauty and imperial architecture. With its serene lakes, lush gardens, and historical significance, it’s no wonder that visitors are often left wondering how long to spend exploring this enchanting palace. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve crafted a comprehensive itinerary that ensures you don’t miss a single gem of this remarkable destination.
First Hour: Arriving and Orientation
Upon arrival at the Summer Palace, allow yourself an hour to navigate the entrance and familiarize yourself with the layout. The palace is divided into two main sections: the Old Summer Palace and the New Summer Palace. Begin your visit by purchasing a ticket at the entrance and collecting a map. This will help you plan your route and make the most of your time.
Second Hour: Exploring the Longevity Hill
The Longevity Hill is the central feature of the Summer Palace. As you ascend the hill, you’ll pass by the Hall of Perpetual Harmony, which once served as the imperial palace. Spend the next hour exploring the hill, taking in the panoramic views of the palace’s gardens and the famous Longevity Bridge.
Third Hour: The Grand Garden and the Longevity Bridge
After reaching the top of the Longevity Hill, head towards the Grand Garden, a vast area filled with pavilions, pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a cup of tea at one of the nearby tea houses, or simply sit and soak in the serene atmosphere. The Longevity Bridge, which spans across the Kunming Lake, is a must-see. Don’t forget to take a picture of the bridge with its reflection in the water.
Fourth Hour: The Kunming Lake and the Summer Palace Museum
Next, head towards the Kunming Lake, the largest body of water in the Summer Palace. Spend the next hour exploring the lake’s shores, where you can rent a boat or simply enjoy the scenery. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Summer Palace Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of imperial artifacts and art.
Fifth Hour: The Imperial Garden and the Garden of Virtue
After exploring the Kunming Lake, make your way to the Imperial Garden, a private garden reserved for the imperial family. This hour-long visit will allow you to see the opulent gardens and pavilions that once housed the emperors and their families. Following this, take a short walk to the Garden of Virtue, a serene garden that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling palace grounds.
Sixth Hour: The Su Causeway and the final views
Conclude your visit with a leisurely stroll along the Su Causeway, a picturesque wooden bridge that connects the two main sections of the Summer Palace. As you walk, take in the final views of the palace and its surroundings. If time permits, visit the Enlarged Palace, which is located near the causeway.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a full-day visit to the Summer Palace is highly recommended, as it allows you to explore the palace’s many wonders without feeling rushed. With our guided itinerary, you can make the most of your time and experience the grandeur of this imperial masterpiece. Remember, how long to spend at the Summer Palace ultimately depends on your interests and pace, but a day dedicated to this enchanting destination is sure to be memorable.
