Summer Palace Walking Tour

Exploring the enchanting Summer Palace in Beijing is a must-do for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating three-hour walking tour, led by knowledgeable experts who explore the palace’s rich past and stunning architectural wonders. From the serene Kunming Lake to the iconic Long Corridor, each step of the journey unveils the fascinating lives of Empress Cixi and Emperor Guangxu. Whether you’re marveling at the intricate traditional Chinese paintings or gaining insights into the palace’s strategic significance, the Summer Palace walking tour promises an immersive experience that will leave you eager to discover more about this remarkable cultural treasure.

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided walking tour of the Summer Palace in Beijing, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its elegant gardens and historical significance.
• The tour is led by a professional English-speaking guide and focuses on the lives of Empress Cixi and Emperor Guangxu, as well as the palace’s architectural insights.
• The tour includes entry to the Summer Palace, but excludes the museum and Suzhou Street, and offers optional first entry tickets to the Beijing Zoo and panda house.
• The tour departs from the Xi Yuan subway station and is wheelchair accessible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour has received a 5-star rating from 47 reviews, with praise for the guide’s historical knowledge, the architectural beauty, and the personalized attention in smaller groups.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Summer Palace Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of one of Beijing’s most iconic landmarks. Priced from €52.17 per person, this 3-hour English-language tour takes guests through the serene gardens and historical structures of the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Wheelchair accessible and with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, the tour departs from the convenient location of Exit C2 at the Xi Yuan subway station.

With a professional English-speaking guide, participants can expect an immersive experience, learning about the palace’s rich history and architecture during this leisurely walking tour.

Historical Significance

Located within Beijing, the Summer Palace is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site that was originally named the Garden of Clear Ripples.

This expansive complex comprises three main sections: the political center, living quarters, and gardens.

Similar in design to the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace features iconic structures like the |Kunming Lake|Long Corridor with 14,000 paintings|Longevity Hill|Emperor’s Prison|.

Insights into the lives of influential figures like the Dragon Lady Cixi and Emperor Guang Xu are woven throughout the site’s rich history, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of China’s imperial past.

Guided Experience

Knowledgeable English-speaking guides lead the Summer Palace Walking Tour, providing visitors with detailed narratives about the site’s rich history and cultural significance.

They share insights into the lives of key figures, like Empress Cixi and Emperor Guangxu, and the complex political events that shaped the palace’s evolution.

The guided experience allows visitors to delve deeper into the architecture and design, uncovering the hidden meanings behind the pavilions, gardens, and corridors.

With their expertise, the guides bring the Summer Palace’s past to life, ensuring an engaging and informative exploration for all participants.

Key Locations

The tour’s key locations immerse visitors in the grandeur and intricate design of the Summer Palace. Guests will explore the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, a magnificent structure featuring elegant architecture and intricate carvings. The Hall of Happiness and Longevity, another highlight, showcases the palace’s harmonious blend of gardens and buildings. Plus, scenic walks around the artificial Kunming Lake and the iconic Long Corridor, with its 14,000 traditional Chinese paintings, offer a captivating glimpse into the palace’s past.

Key Locations	Highlights
Hall of Benevolence and Longevity	Elegant architecture, intricate carvings
Hall of Happiness and Longevity	Harmonious blend of gardens and buildings
Kunming Lake and Long Corridor	Scenic walks, 14,000 traditional Chinese paintings

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Unique Elements

Along With the captivating architectural highlights, the Summer Palace walking tour also showcases unique elements that provide an immersive experience for visitors. The tour includes:

1. Exploration of the longest wooden corridor in the world, the iconic Long Corridor, which stretches over 700 meters and features 14,000 traditional Chinese paintings.

2. Insights into the dramatic story of Emperor Guangxu’s imprisonment by the powerful Empress Dowager Cixi, who confined him in the Emperor’s Prison on the palace grounds.

3. Visits to the Kunming Lake, an artificial body of water that adds serene beauty to the palace complex.

4. Opportunities to understand the political and social context that shaped the reigns of key historical figures like Cixi and Guangxu.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Summer Palace walking tour includes several key elements in its package.

Travelers will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking guide, who provides detailed narratives about the historical events and figures associated with the site.

The tour package also covers the cost of tickets to the Summer Palace, excluding the museum and Suzhou Street.

Plus, if selected, the tour includes the first entry ticket to the Beijing Zoo and panda house.

However, the tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up/drop-off, which is available for private groups at an additional cost, nor tips for the guide or the cost of public transportation, although the guide will assist with navigation.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have provided highly favorable feedback on the Summer Palace walking tour, rating it 5 out of 5 stars based on 47 reviews.

Guides are praised for their historical knowledge and engaging storytelling, with recommendations for visual aids to enhance understanding.

The tour’s highlights, including the architectural intricacies and natural beauty of the palace, are emphasized.

Smaller group settings are noted for providing personalized attention.

The tour is described as a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts.

The key points of the customer feedback are:

1. Knowledgeable and engaging guides
2. Recommendations for visual aids
3. Emphasis on the Summer Palace’s beauty and architecture
4. Personalized attention in smaller group settings

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the Summer Palace walking tour is at Exit C2 of the Xi Yuan subway station, which is on Line 4.

Located near a McDonald’s, the meeting point is easily accessible for participants. The guide will be waiting at this designated spot to greet the group and begin the tour.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive on time, as the tour departs promptly. The meeting point’s proximity to the subway system makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the Summer Palace’s rich history and stunning architecture.

With clear instructions provided, guests can confidently find their way to the tour’s beginning, setting the stage for an engaging and informative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Time Do I Need to Explore the Entire Summer Palace?

Based on the tour overview, visitors will need around 3 hours to explore the key highlights of the Summer Palace. However, the entire site is vast, and one could spend a full day discovering its many wonders.

Are There Any Restaurants or Food Options Within the Summer Palace?

There are several dining options within the Summer Palace grounds, including casual eateries and cafes. Visitors can find a range of local cuisine and beverages to refuel during their exploration of this expansive imperial garden.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the tour, though some areas may have restrictions. It’s best to follow the guide’s instructions and be respectful of the historical site’s policies.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Summer Palace?

There’s no formal dress code for visiting the Summer Palace, but visitors should dress comfortably and wear practical footwear for walking around the expansive gardens and grounds. Visitors can wear casual, weather-appropriate attire.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

There don’t appear to be any current discounts or special offers advertised for this tour. However, the tour company may offer seasonal promotions or bundle packages that could provide savings. It’s best to check their website or inquire directly for the latest details.

The Sum Up

The Summer Palace Walking Tour offers a captivating three-hour journey through a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided by a professional, visitors explore the palace’s rich history, admire its stunning gardens, and explore iconic landmarks like the Long Corridor. With insights into the lives of Empress Cixi and Emperor Guangxu, the tour provides a unique opportunity to take in China’s imperial past and appreciate the serene beauty of Kunming Lake.

You can check if your dates are available here: