https://nz.trip.com/moments/detail/beijing-1-139275061?locale=en-NZ
TRex ProSingapore
vipIconPotential creator
levelIconTravel Mentor

Imperial Calm ☁️

Exploring Beijing’s majestic Summer Palace — this spot mixes incredible imperial vibes with lakeside chills, perfect for rainy or cloudy days! ☁️🏯 If you love Chinese architecture and gorgeous garden strolls, this is your dream destination. Must-See Places: 1. Summer Palace (No. 19, Gongmeng Road, Haidian District, Beijing, Open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM Apr-Oct, 6:30 AM–7:00 PM Nov-Mar, Admission ¥128) Wander through grand halls, ornate walkways, and lush landscapes. Even in cloudy weather, the close-up details on the eaves pop — bring a camera! Insiders tip: Arrive earlier in the morning to beat the crowds and grab epic, moody shots. 2. Boathouse (Haidian, China, Open all day) Right on the lake, this unique spot is all about tranquil water views and detailed architecture. Perfect for sightseeing when the weather’s drizzly — the reflections on Kunming Lake are extra serene. 3. Ferry Terminal (北京市海淀区颐和园) Want a different perspective? Take the ferry across the palace grounds for less walking and unforgettable lake scenery. Boats run regularly and make it easy to reach all the main highlights. Travel Hacks: - Getting Around: The metro (Line 4) gets you to Summer Palace fast. From there, everything’s walkable and beautiful — especially in misty, cloudy weather. - Food: There are snack stalls inside with surprisingly good jasmine tea and street eats; nearby Haidian has local restaurants for authentic Beijing duck. - Extra Tips: Buy tickets online via trip.com in advance to skip the line. Weather in Beijing can turn rainy, so pack an umbrella for more atmospheric photos (the architecture details totally stand out in this light!). #hellochristmas #beijingviews #summerpalace #chinesearchitecture #traveltips
Posted: Dec 12, 2025
2 Comments
Kakoi Ken
Kakoi Ken
Sunshine Daisy
Sunshine Daisy
Submit
0
Mentioned in this post
Attraction

Summer Palace

4.7/549033 reviews | Historic buildings
Beijing
2026 China 100 - Best Things to Do
15.43
Details
Show more
Related Trip Moments
Summer Palace

Summer Palace Stroll 🌞

TRex Pro
Summer Palace

Sunset at Summer Palace✨

shi ting soh
Summer Palace - Boathouse

Just spent a dreamy day exploring Beijing’s epic Summer Palace! 🏞️ The best part? Those lakeside views at the Boathouse are seriously next-level, especially with the lush gardens all around. This spot gives major imperial China vibes—think tranquil water reflections, photogenic bridges, and breezy paths perfect for chilling out. 🌸 Top Spots to Visit in Summer Palace: - Boathouse (Haidian, China — open all day): Grab your camera! Early mornings here mean less crowd and golden light bouncing off Kunming Lake. The views are magic, with classic Chinese pavilions framing the water. - Wander the grounds for more must-sees, from marble bridges to ornate halls dotted with Buddha statues. If you’re into outdoor cultural landscapes, make time to soak up the serene temple area and pay respects to the Buddha—you’ll find beautiful sculptures that add a unique spiritual element to your walk. My Quick Tips: - Go on a weekday to dodge weekend crowds. - Bring snacks/water, since food options nearby can be pricey or limited. - The paths are fairly flat, so comfy shoes are a must for max exploring. - Pictures turn out best mid-morning or late afternoon (the light and colors pop!). Getting Around: It’s a breeze catching a taxi or ride-share to Summer Palace from central Beijing. Once inside, everything is walkable! Food: Try nearby Haidian district street stalls for cheap dumplings or noodles after your visit. For a sit-down meal, local chain restaurants serve reliable Beijing classics, just a short drive away. Key Tips: No extra visa needed, just your passport at entry. Summer Palace is family-friendly and open year-round—all day! #BeijingViews #SummerPalace #CulturalChina #TravelTips

lousia
Summer Palace

Strolling Through the Golden Autumn at Beijing’s Summer Palace 🍁🏯🌞 Take an unforgettable walk through the legendary Summer Palace as Beijing’s autumn shows off its sun-dappled lakes, golden willows, and striking classical architecture. November brings crisp air and fiery tree-lined avenues—perfect for exploring this epic imperial retreat. Suggested walking route: Start at East Palace Gate. Circle Kunming Lake’s willow-draped banks, catching rays glinting across the water. Head up Longevity Hill for panoramic autumn views and elegant pavilions—don’t miss Foxiang Pavilion’s bold rooftops! Wind back along Suzhou Street, with its traditional shops, and slip into quieter corners by Back Lake for serene photos. Photo spots: Snap epic “Chinese autumn” shots along Kunming Lake’s stone bridges, beneath swooping willow branches, and from Longevity Hill looking back at palace rooftops. The lakeside at sunrise/sunset is pure magic—perfect for getting those dreamy reflections. Precautions: Some hills and stairs may be slippery due to morning dew—walk carefully, especially by the lakeside. Check weather ahead, as Beijing can be windy. #Beijing #SummerPalace #AutumnWalk #ChineseArchitecture #TravelTips

Nastylik
Summer Palace

🌿 Imperial Calm at the Summer Palace 🏯⛲

JetSetJames
Summer Palace

Temple Trail Magic ✨

TRex Pro
Summer Palace

Summer Zen Views 🌞

TRex Pro
Summer Palace - Ferry Terminal

Beijing’s historic vibes plus the legendary Summer Palace 🚤✨ If you’re obsessed with jaw-dropping Chinese architecture, this day trip will blow your mind. The Summer Palace is iconic—but the real magic starts at the Ferry Terminal (北京市海淀区颐和园), where you can catch classic boat rides and get up-close views of the palace’s ornate designs. Must-See Spot: Start your stroll at the Ferry Terminal, check out the majestic pillar decked in golden dragon motifs, and don’t miss the background shot with the ancient temple architecture. Even if it’s cloudy or raining, the palace details pop—so bring your camera for amazing close-ups! Pro tip: The rain makes the colors on pillars and temples even richer, and there’s way less crowd, which means easy photo ops. Summer Palace Practical Times: Open daily from 6:30am–6:00pm. I recommend arriving early to enjoy the peaceful vibe before tour groups roll in. How to Get There: Hop on Beijing Metro Line 4, get off at Beigongmen Station, and the palace entrance is just a quick walk away. Super convenient, skip taxis unless you’re carrying a lot. Food Hacks: Grab some street eats near the palace gates (custard buns, local noodles, or steamed sweet potatoes—cheap and filling!). Extra Tips: Keep some cash for tickets and snacks, since some small vendors still don’t accept cards. And if you really want epic pillar shots, cloudy days are perfect—no harsh shadows! #BeijingTrip #SummerPalaceMagic #ChineseArchitecture #TravelTips #DragonsEverywhere

lousia
Summer Palace

Step into imperial elegance at the Summer Palace in Beijing 🌳🏯—where ancient charm meets scenic lakeside beauty! Wander beautifully landscaped gardens, discover ornate halls, and soak in the serenity of Kunming Lake, all in a hassle-free visit you can scan your way into. 🗺️ Start your day early—the gates open at 6:00 AM (or 6:30 AM in winter), making tranquil mornings perfect for lakeside strolls and fewer crowds. Use the East Gate at No. 19, Gongmeng Road for a smooth entry. Head straight to the Long Corridor for exquisite painted beams, then stroll up Longevity Hill for panoramic palace views (top insta-worthy spot: shoot from the hill overlooking Kunming Lake!). Don’t miss the Marble Boat—a unique photo op especially in soft morning light. Relax by the lake’s edge for postcard-worthy reflections—early hours capture fewer tourists in your shots! If time allows, rent a paddle boat for a gentle lake cruise. ⏰ Visiting tip: Entry is scan-and-go, no waiting in ticket lines. Keep your digital ticket handy. The admission fee is 60 CNY. With extended spring/summer hours (until 8:00 PM), the golden hour is perfect for dreamy sunset pics. 💡 Precautions: The grounds are vast—wear comfy shoes and bring water. Avoid peak hours (late morning & early afternoon) for smoother exploring. In colder months, layer up—the lakeside breeze can get chilly. #Beijing #SummerPalace #HistoricChina #PalaceViews #TravelTips

Florin G.
Summer Palace

Beijing adventure unlocked! If you’re hunting for next-level imperial vibes and epic photo ops, Summer Palace is the spot you can’t miss 🏯✨ Must-See Place: Summer Palace Address: No. 19, Gongmeng Road, Haidian District, Beijing Opening Hours: Apr 1–Oct 31: 06:00–20:00 (last entry 19:00); Nov 1–Mar 31: 06:30–19:00 (last entry 18:00) Don’t rush it! Summer Palace is no ordinary park — it’s basically a mini city of lakes, gardens, ancient corridors, and imperial halls. I learned this the hard way: getting a professional photo there ate up most of my time, and there was still SO much left to explore! Make sure to give yourself a few extra hours to wander, snap every hidden view, and maybe rent a boat on Kunming Lake 🚣♀️ Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes, pack a water bottle, and plan at least half a day if you want to truly experience all corners of the Summer Palace. And if photos are your thing, the early morning light is magic and there are way fewer crowds — totally worth the early wakeup! Getting around: The metro is your best friend. Take Line 4 to Beigongmen Station (Exit D) and you’ll be just minutes from the park entrance. Food fuel: Skip the in-park snacks — grab dim sum or Beijing roast duck at a local spot around Haidian after your visit. General tips: Bring cash or a mobile payment app for entry, and be ready for some serious walking (this place is HUGE). Weather can get hot in summer, so hat and sunscreen are clutch! #BeijingAdventure #SummerPalace #TravelTips #ChinaVibes

LimSC91
Summer Palace

Step Into Imperial Serenity at the Summer Palace 🌿🏯✨ Explore Beijing's Summer Palace for a blend of lakeside elegance and ancient grandeur—the perfect escape from city buzz! Glide past willow-draped pathways, marvel at glittering pavilions, and soak up panoramic views. 🗺️ Recommended Route: Enter from the North Gate for a quieter, more scenic entry (great for beating the crowds!). Start at the Suzhou Street for a picturesque stroll, wind around Longevity Hill, then circle Kunming Lake for misty water reflections. ✨ Must-do Activities: - Climb the Marble Boat for classic 'royal leisure' vibes. - Walk the Long Corridor, discovering painted stories and secret corners. - Rent a paddle boat on Kunming Lake—gives you the best vistas and a cool breeze in summer! 📷 Top Photo Spots: - Longevity Hill overlooking the lake: panoramic magic, especially at golden hour. - The Marble Boat: capture reflections with a low-angle shot. - Suzhou Street’s bright storefronts and canal—dreamy and vibrant! 🦶 Practical Tips: - Enter before 10:00 AM for softer light and fewer tours (my go-to for quiet photos). - Pick comfy shoes—the palace grounds are huge! - Bring water, especially if exploring the hill paths. ⚠️ Key Precautions: - Watch your step on slippery stones after rain. - North Gate closes promptly at posted times—plan your exit accordingly. - Security checks at every gate, so keep tickets and ID handy. #Beijing #SummerPalace #HistoricEscape #TravelTips #ChinaAdventure

YNNEP
Summer Palace

🏯 Summer Palace — Beijing’s Imperial Escape

kkkkkgsu