CityBuddy
Summer Palace
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon in spring or autumn, when temperatures are pleasant and light is best for photos; avoid Chinese national holidays when crowds spike.
Budget tips
Basic entry typically costs around 30-60 CNY, with full-route or high-season tickets up to about 60-80 CNY; students and seniors receive discounts with a valid ID, and buying e-tickets on the official site or reputable platforms can save time and small fees.
Recommended for
History buffs, Garden lovers, Photography enthusiasts, Families
Plan your visit
2-4 hours
About
Quick facts: In einem Park, wo Seenlicht und alte Bauwerke ineinanderfließen, gibt es einen riesigen künstlichen See, der etwa zwei Drittel des gesamten Parks ausmacht. Mit einem kleinen Boot kann man an mehreren Steinbrücken und einem Wasserkorridor vorbeifahren. An den Balken und Säulen des Korridors sind tausende kleine Gemälde angebracht. Beim Gehen trifft man oft auf Live-Aufführungen mit Guzheng oder Kunqu-Oper. Klang, Farbe und Bild erzählen gemeinsam vom Alltag vergangener Zeiten.
Highlights: Ein Spaziergang am Abend entlang des etwa 728 Meter langen Korridors verbindet Duft von Holz und altem Lack. Im Licht wirken die farbigen Bilder weich und fast greifbar. Die Legende vom Steinschiff erzählt oft, dass Kaiserinwitwe Cixi private Seeausflüge im Malboot veranstaltete. Der Guide berichtet, wie sie an ihrem Geburtstag Süßigkeiten an Kinder warf. Man kann sich vorstellen, wie die Süßigkeiten Wasser spritzen lassen.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, many paths are uneven and there are steep stone steps up Longevity Hill.
- Arrive at opening and head straight to Longevity Hill to beat large tour groups and secure clear photos of the Tower of Buddhist Incense.
- Take a short boat on Kunming Lake for low-angle views of the marble boat and bridges, choose smaller operators to avoid crowded large ferries.
- Avoid visiting during Golden Week or National Day holidays, instead pick weekdays for quieter paths and shorter lines.
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