Summer Palace | Beijing | 4K

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The Summer Palace (颐和园, Yíhé Yuán) in Beijing is one of China's most exquisite and well-preserved imperial gardens. Known for its beautiful landscapes, historic architecture, and cultural significance, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top tourist attraction in Beijing. Construction: The origins of the Summer Palace date back to the Jin Dynasty (1115-1234), but it was significantly expanded and transformed during the Qing Dynasty. The majority of the existing structure was built under the orders of Emperor Qianlong in the 18th century, primarily as a gift for his mother’s 60th birthday. The palace was later used as a summer retreat by the Qing emperors, hence its name. Destruction and Reconstruction: The Summer Palace suffered significant damage during the Second Opium War in 1860, when Anglo-French forces looted and burned much of the complex. It was rebuilt in 1886 under the orders of Empress Dowager Cixi, who used funds intended for the navy to restore the palace. Cixi spent a significant amount of time at the Summer Palace, and it became her primary residence in the late 19th century. Kunming Lake: Covering about three-quarters of the palace grounds, Kunming Lake is an artificial lake that was expanded during the reign of Emperor Qianlong. The lake is a focal point of the palace, with many of the key buildings and pavilions located along its shores. Visitors can take boat rides on the lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding architecture and landscape. Longevity Hill: Rising on the northern shore of Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill (Wanshou Shan) is a man-made hill that features numerous temples, pavilions, and halls. The hill provides a vantage point for panoramic views of the entire complex. The buildings on Longevity Hill are arranged in a way that reflects traditional Chinese principles of Feng Shui. The Long Corridor (Changlang): The Long Corridor is one of the most famous features of the Summer Palace. Stretching for about 728 meters (2,388 feet), this covered walkway runs along the northern shore of Kunming Lake and is adorned with over 14,000 beautiful paintings depicting scenes from Chinese mythology, history, and literature. The corridor was designed to provide a sheltered walkway for the emperor and his family, allowing them to enjoy the gardens even in inclement weather. The Marble Boat (Shifang): Located at the western end of the Long Corridor, the Marble Boat is a pavilion that resembles a European-style stone boat. Built entirely of marble, it symbolizes the stability of the Qing Dynasty. Although it was never intended to be functional, the Marble Boat is an iconic and photogenic structure within the Summer Palace. The Tower of Buddhist Incense (Foxiang Ge): Perched atop Longevity Hill, this towering structure is one of the most prominent buildings in the Summer Palace. The tower, which stands 41 meters (135 feet) tall, was originally built to hold a large statue of Guanyin, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The building offers sweeping views of Kunming Lake and the surrounding areas. Seventeen-Arch Bridge: This elegant bridge connects the eastern shore of Kunming Lake to Nanhu Island (South Lake Island). The bridge is named for its 17 arches and is decorated with over 500 stone lions, each with a unique design. It is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the light reflects off the lake. Imperial Retreat: The Summer Palace served as a retreat for the emperors of the Qing Dynasty, particularly during the hot summer months. It was a place of relaxation and entertainment, where the imperial family could escape the pressures of court life and enjoy the tranquility of the gardens. Art and Architecture: The Summer Palace is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape gardening, combining natural scenery with man-made structures in a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing way. The architecture of the palace reflects traditional Chinese styles, with a strong emphasis on balance, symmetry, and the integration of buildings with their natural surroundings. Location: The Summer Palace is located in the Haidian District, about 15 kilometers (9 miles) northwest of central Beijing. It is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Beijing subway. Visiting Hours: The palace is open daily, with varying hours depending on the season. It typically opens in the early morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. Best Time to Visit: The Summer Palace is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom or covered in vibrant fall foliage. Dress Code: There is no specific dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the large area and uneven terrain. Tickets: There are different ticket options depending on whether you want to access the whole complex or just specific parts. It’s advisable to purchase a combined ticket to explore all the major attractions. Etiquette: As a historical and cultural site, visitors are expected to behave respectfully, avoid littering, and follow the designated pathways. The Summer Palace is a stunning example of traditional Chinese garden design and imperial architecture. It offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Beijing, providing visitors with a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of China's emperors and the profound beauty of Chinese art and nature.