A Detailed Guide to Visiting the Old Summer Palace

Pre-trip Preparations Purchase tickets in advance through the Old Summer Palace official WeChat account or major travel platforms. Adult tickets are 25 CNY, with discounts available for students and seniors. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the park is large and requires extensive walking. Check the weather forecast and choose a clear, comfortable day for optimal photo opportunities and sightseeing. Opening Hours and Entry The park is open from 6:30 am to 8:00 pm (ticket sales and entry stop at 7:30 pm). It is recommended to enter before 9:00 am to avoid crowds and take advantage of better lighting for photos. The Old Summer Palace has multiple entrances. The South Gate, near Exit B of Yuanmingyuan Park Station on Subway Line 4, offers the most convenient access and is generally the recommended entry point. Recommended Sightseeing Route 1. Panoramic Model Exhibition of the Old Summer Palace in its Heyday (near the South Gate): Visit this exhibition hall upon entering the park. The model provides a visual overview of the former glory of the Old Summer Palace, which is helpful for subsequent exploration. Allow approximately 30 mins for this exhibit. 2. Ruins of the Hall of Supreme Harmony: This was once the place where the royal family handled government affairs. The remaining foundations and pillar bases offer a glimpse into the majesty of imperial architecture. Allow 15–20 mins for this site. 3. The Nine Continents, Clear and Serene: Modeled after the water towns of southern China, this area features numerous palace ruins and winding waterways. It is one of the main scenic spots in the Old Summer Palace. Allow 30–40 mins for this area. 4. Western Mansions: The most famous area of the Old Summer Palace, featuring the ruins of the European-style palaces, including the Fountain of the Twelve Zodiac Animals, the Haiyantang (Hall of Calm Seas), and the Xieqiqu (Harmonious Interest). The iconic Fountain and the ruins of the animal heads are must-sees. Take some photos here. Allow 1–2 hrs for this area. 5. Fuhai Lake: The largest body of water in the Old Summer Palace, Fuhai Lake offers expansive views. Stroll along the lakeshore, enjoy the scenery, or rent a boat. Allow 1–1.5 hrs for this area. 6. The Lion Forest: Known for its rock formations, this area features numerous rugged rockeries, pavilions, and towers. Allow approximately 40 mins for this area. Transportation within the Park • Walking: Allows for close-up views of each attraction, but can be tiring. Suitable for visitors with ample time and good physical condition. • Electric Cart: Multiple stops throughout the park, available on demand. Tickets are 30 CNY per person. Suitable for visitors who prefer to save energy and quickly visit the main attractions. • Boat: Available in the Fuhai Lake area, with varying prices. Offers a unique perspective of the Old Summer Palace from the water. Dining and Rest • Dining: Several restaurants and snack kiosks within the park offer Chinese fast food, burgers, sausages, ice cream, etc., at slightly higher prices than outside the park. Try the Old Summer Palace-themed ice cream, featuring designs of the park's architecture or lotus flowers—perfect for photos. • Rest: Numerous benches and pavilions are available along the way for resting. The areas around Fuhai Lake and the Western Mansions have more rest areas. Shopping A variety of cultural and creative products are available at the exit of the Old Summer Palace or in the cultural and creative stores within the park. These include bookmarks, notebooks, postcards, and accessories featuring Old Summer Palace elements, as well as exquisite crafts based on the park's architecture and cultural relics.