Summer Palace Tours & Guided Trips

Summer Palace Tours & Guided Trips

The Summer Palace, known as Yiheyuan in Chinese, is located in the northwest of Beijing, a complex of lakes, gardens, and palaces used as a royal garden during the Qing Dynasty. The Summer Palace was inspired by the gardens of southern China and houses a collection of valuable artifacts from various dynasties. The highlights of the building are Longevity Hill, Kunming Lake, the promenade, the palace, and the lush gardens.
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Best Time to Visit Summer Palace

Summer 2026
Summer brings warm days averaging 26°C (79°F) with lush green willows framing Kunming Lake. Visit between June and August to see lotus flowers in full bloom across the water. Rent a traditional dragon boat or stroll along the Long Corridor for shaded views of ancient paintings. Early mornings offer cool breezes perfect for tai chi sessions near the Marble Boat, while evenings host lively local dance gatherings. This UNESCO site transforms into a vibrant oasis where history meets nature's peak beauty.
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Autumn 2026
Autumn with temps ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 20°C (68°F). Golden ginkgo leaves frame Kunming Lake, creating a mirror for the Long Corridor. Visitors enjoy boat rides on calm waters or hiking Fragrant Hill nearby for vibrant red foliage. The harvest season offers fresh chestnuts and persimmons at local stalls. This period avoids summer crowds, making it ideal for photography and quiet strolls through historic pavilions.
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Winter 2026/2027
Winter transforms Beijing's imperial gem into a serene, snow-dusted wonderland. From December to February, temperatures hover around -5°C (23°F), often dropping lower, freezing Kunming Lake into a vast natural rink. Visitors glide across the ice on traditional sleds or stroll along frost-covered causeways framing ancient pavilions. The Snowy West Causeway offers breathtaking views of ice-encrusted willows against red walls, while the Long Corridor provides sheltered walks adorned with intricate paintings. This season highlights quiet beauty and unique activities unavailable in warmer months.
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Spring 2027
Spring at The Summer Palace (March-May) brings mild 12-22°C (54-72°F) days, perfect for exploring. Peach blossoms frame Kunming Lake while willows sway in gentle breezes. Visitors enjoy boat rides on the water, strolling the Long Corridor, or climbing Longevity Hill for panoramic views. The marble boat and ancient temples shine under clear skies, making it an ideal time for photography and cultural immersion in Beijing's royal heritage.
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Reviews for Summer Palace Tours

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14-Day China's Natural Marvels Expedition Private Tour from Beijing: Xi'an, Zhangjiajie, Guilin, Yangshuo and Shanghai

The whole trip was really exciting and well organized. Local guides were very good, especially David, who was an angel to us all. The itinerary covered the major points of interest in China within the short 14-day schedule. The Chinese food that was included was really good. The local guides went out of their way to accommodate some of our needs outside of the tour schedule. My two sisters and I really enjoyed the tour.

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17D16N · Group Tours · Best of China in Small Group: Kung Fu Pandas, Scenic Wonders & Imperial Icons

The value for money is incredible given how much is included: flights, bullet trains, most meals, and top-tier hotels. The Great Wall at Mutianyu was less crowded than I feared, and the cable car up was a bonus. Our group bonded well, and the guide even arranged a birthday cake for one member. A memorable trip.

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4-Day Beijing Private Tour with Lunch: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Great Wall, Hutong and Yonghe Palace

A Fantastic and Comprehensive Beijing Experience!

This 3-day private tour was absolutely fantastic. From the moment we were picked up, everything was well-organized and tailored to our preferences. We explored Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven with in-depth commentary from our guide. The Great Wall hike was a highlight, and the Hutong tour gave us a charming glimpse into traditional Beijing life. Lunches were delicious, and the Yonghe Palace was a serene finish to our tour. Highly recommend this tour for an immersive Beijing experience!

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4-Day Beijing Splendors Private Tour: Tian'anmen Square, Temple of Heaven and The Summer Palace**24-Hour Free Airport Transfer**

Love this tour

We love this tour. Tian'anmen Square was awe-inspiring, and learning about its historical significance was enlightening. The Temple of Heaven's architecture and rituals were a unique cultural experience. The Summer Palace's vast gardens and lake views were breathtaking.

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FAQs about Summer Palace Tours

Why is the Summer Palace famous?

It is famous for being the best-preserved imperial garden in China, featuring classical Chinese landscape design, the large Kunming Lake, and the Longevity Hill. It was a summer retreat for Qing emperors and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What happened to the Summer Palace?

The Summer Palace was severely damaged in 1860 during the Second Opium War, when Anglo-French forces destroyed many buildings. It was later rebuilt and expanded in the late Qing dynasty, especially under Empress Dowager Cixi.

How much does the Summer Palace cost?

Standard tickets are about 30–60 RMB (≈ $4–$8 USD) depending on the season.