historicalBeijing
Yuanmingyuan
Yuanmingyuan, also known as the Old Summer Palace, is a vast garden and historical site located in northwestern Beijing. Today, visitors can stroll through this expansive garden, admiring the evocative ruins of European-style palaces, traditional Chinese pavilions and towers, and tranquil lakes. Here, you can find peace and reflection, appreciating the beautiful landscape and sensing its tragic past and present tranquility. Wandering through the garden, you can admire the exquisite stone carvings of the remaining buildings and imagine its former glory.
Opening Hours
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM (April - October); 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM (November - March)
Ticket Price
Tickets: ¥10; All-inclusive ticket: ¥25 (includes admission, Western-style Buildings Ruins, and panoramic sand table exhibition)
Location
No. 28, Qinghua West Road, Haidian District, Beijing
About This Attraction
Yuanmingyuan, located in the western suburbs of Beijing, was once the imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty and was known as the "Garden of Gardens." However, it was burned down by the Anglo-French allied forces in 1860 and is now an important historical site park. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and cultural events such as the Lotus Festival are held. A visit of approximately 3-4 hours is recommended.
Getting There
The most convenient way to get to Yuanmingyuan is to take Metro Line 4 and get off at "Yuanmingyuan Station." Exit from Exit B or C to reach the South Gate. Alternatively, you can take bus routes 331, 432, 508, etc., and get off at "Yuanmingyuan South Gate Station." The recommended classic route is to enter from the South Gate and then tour the park. After your tour, you can choose to exit from the East Gate or take a boat trip on Fuhai Lake and return from the South Gate.
What to Expect
The Yuanmingyuan Garden is primarily paved with flat stone and brick paths, making it ideal for walking. Clear bilingual (Chinese and English) signs and numerous public restrooms are available, mainly located near the South Gate entrance, the Western-style Buildings area, and around Fuhai Lake. For shopping, gift shops and vending machines are located near the South Gate and the Western-style Buildings exit, offering souvenirs, beverages, and light meals.
Visitor Tips
- 1Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the entrance.
- 2Wear comfortable walking shoes as the park is extensive and involves a lot of walking.
- 3Visit on a weekday or early in the morning to experience the ruins with fewer crowds.
- 4Bring water and snacks, as food options within the park can be limited.
Share This Attraction
Found this helpful? Share it with fellow travelers!
More in Beijing
Explore Beijing
Discover more attractions, food, and travel tips for Beijing.
View destination
More Attractions to Explore
Beijing·historical
Badaling Great Wall
Badaling, the most famous and best-preserved section of the Great Wall, is located about 80 kilometers northwest of Beijing. As an important military fortress during the Ming Dynasty, it holds immense historical significance, having protected the capital from northern invasions. Today, visitors can stroll along the expansive walls, climb the beacon towers, and enjoy panoramic views of the rolling mountains, truly experiencing the grandeur of this ancient wonder.
Lijiang·historical
Baisha Old Town
Baisha Old Town is the earliest settlement of the Naxi Kingdom and serves as a tranquil alternative to the bustling Lijiang Old Town. Located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, this historic village offers a glimpse into authentic local life with its traditional cobblestone streets and well-preserved mud-brick houses. Visitors can explore the famous Baisha Murals, which depict a unique fusion of Taoist, Buddhist, and Tibetan art, and wander through quiet courtyards away from the commercial crowds. The town retains a slow-paced, rural atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking cultural immersion and relaxation. It is an ideal spot for photography and enjoying a cup of local tea while watching the world go by.
Guangzhou·historical
Canton Tower
The Canton Tower, standing at 600 meters tall, is China's tallest tower and, when it opened in 2010, the world's tallest freestanding structure. Its unique twisted, lattice-like design, narrowing at the waist, resembles a slender woman. Highlights include the world's highest outdoor observation deck, a skydiving attraction, and a bubble cable car that encircles the top. The tower's LED lighting creates a breathtaking light show at night.