The Summer Palace is a magnificent imperial garden located in northwest Beijing. It covers an area of 2.9 square kilometers and is dominated by the beautiful Kunming Lake. The palace complex consists of numerous pavilions, halls, temples, and bridges, all surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes. It is a perfect place to escape the bustling city and immerse in the tranquility of nature.
The Long Corridor is a highlight of the Summer Palace, stretching for 728 meters along the lake. It is adorned with over 14,000 exquisitely painted colorful panels depicting various scenes from Chinese history, mythology, and literature. Walking along the corridor offers a unique cultural experience and a feast for the eyes.
The Marble Boat is an iconic structure within the Summer Palace. It is a pavilion built entirely of white marble, resembling a traditional Chinese wooden boat. The boat symbolizes stability and serves as a reminder of the imperial extravagance of the past. Visitors can explore the boat and enjoy stunning views of Kunming Lake.
The Summer Palace, known as Yiheyuan in Chinese, was originally built in 1750 as a royal garden for the imperial family during the Qing Dynasty. It served as a retreat and a place for the emperors and their families to relax and entertain guests. However, it was severely damaged by foreign forces during the Second Opium War in 1860. In 1888, Empress Dowager Cixi ordered its reconstruction, resulting in the grand palace complex seen today. The Summer Palace is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the best-preserved imperial gardens in the world.
While the Summer Palace is not primarily known for its food, visitors can still enjoy a range of culinary delights within its vicinity. There are various restaurants and tea houses offering traditional Chinese cuisine, such as Peking duck, dumplings, and local Beijing snacks. Additionally, the nearby Houhai area is famous for its vibrant nightlife and features numerous bars and restaurants where visitors can indulge in both local and international dishes.