The Imperial Summer Palace, Beijing, China

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Photo ofThe Imperial Summer Palace, Beijing, China

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mclivancouver

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Trail stats

Distance: 4.08 mi
Elevation gain: 331 ft
Technical difficulty: Moderate
Elevation loss: 354 ft
Max elevation: 289 ft
TrailRank: 54
Min elevation: 46 ft
Trail type: One Way

Coordinates: 128
Uploaded: January 18, 2016

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near Qinglongqiao, Beijing (China)

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Itinerary description

A significant historical and cultural location and UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The Palace was summer residence of Qing Dynasty Emperors including Dowager Empress Cici. It is renowned for ornate temples, art and gardens. There are frequent traditional Chinese opera performances.

Route starts at a subway station near the northern admission gate, with some restaurants nearby, and finishes at a different subway station to the East. Both stations are marked as waypoints. There is an admission fee. Going from north to south puts the one big climb at the beginning of the day.

Walking maps are available around the entrance ticket kiosk.

Waypoints

North Entrance

Must select which tickets to buy, some individual buildings and zones require extra tickets. Snacks, maps, water, juice, and a paper map area available at and inside the ticket gate.

Bridge over Canal

Zone under bridge (artisan shops and canal) needs purchase of an extra ticket for access.

Courtyard

Base for the steep climb up stairway to the top of the palace and temple complex.

Views to North

From near top of staiway.

Temple Area

Around the central temple tower

Decent to Lake

Steep stairway decent

View to South

From top of stairs before decent to lake level. View is shrouded by mist on this visit.

Teahouse (Entrance)

Entrance on East side, Chinese tea, coffee, snacks, calligraphy studio

Teahouse (Lake Balcony)

Balcony on West side, overlooking a canal with boat traffic

Lake Boats - North Dock Area

Can take a Dragon Boat across the lake. It lands at a small Island connected to the shore path by a famous arched bridge.

Lake Boats - East Dock Area

Dock is on a amall island connected to lakeshore walk by the ancient stone bridge.

The Seventeen Arched Bridge

ancient engineering works

Willow Lakeshore Walk

very special in mild, calm, and misty conditions

Lakeshore gardens and landcapes

Opera Perform Area near here

Traditional live Chinese Opera performances, on a traditional multi-layer stage with audience seating. Store and facilities nearby. Included in general admission.