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China🇨🇳 | landmarksSummer Palace, BeijingLakeside pavilions, painted corridors, imperial gardens | things to do and best time to go

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Backpacking in Summer Palace, Beijing
UNESCO World Heritage site
👍 Recommendedunique site ranked #10
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 31, 2026

Most people online sell the Summer Palace as a peaceful escape, but as a backpacker you’ll quickly learn it’s basically a royal theme park of crowds unless you time it right. Sitting in northwest Beijing, out past the 4th Ring Road in Haidian District, it’s still absolutely worth the metro ride. The wow-factor is real: a huge lake, hilltop temples, peeling paint on old corridors that somehow makes the place feel more human than the Forbidden City. It’s cheap by global standards, but not by China park standards once you add “through-ticket” extras. Expect tour groups, selfie sticks, and loudspeakers, yet step off the main loop and you suddenly get quiet courtyards, old men sketching, and that rare feeling of Beijing actually breathing.

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #10 unique site in ChinaWhat makes it a must-see unique site

The Summer Palace in Beijing is a must-see, but let’s cut through the fluff. Yes, it can get crowded, especially during peak season, but that’s part of the experience. The scale is impressive—covering over 700 acres, it’s a sprawling escape from the city’s chaos. You’ll find serene lakes, ornate pavilions, and lush gardens that transport you back in time.

Entry is cheap, making it a solid choice for backpackers on a budget. Plus, it fits perfectly into a broader route; combine it with a visit to the Forbidden City or a stroll through Beihai Park. The real magic lies in the details—the intricate architecture and the stories behind each structure. It’s not just a photo op; it’s a slice of history that resonates.
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💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

  • Longevity Hill & Tower of Buddhist Incense — The hill anchors the whole site; climb winding paths past ornate temples to reach the Tower of Buddhist Incense for sweeping views of the lake and palace roofs. It’s where imperial ritual, clever landscaping and rebuilt Qing-era architecture meet — great for photos and a sense of scale.
  • Kunming Lake (boat ride) — A huge man-made lake that gives the Summer Palace its relaxed vibe. Rent a small rowboat or take a larger tourist boat to float among willow reflections and islands — quiet, scenic, and my personal favorite for watching the palace facades slowly drift by.
  • The Long Corridor (Chang Lang) — Possibly the world’s longest painted corridor: a covered wooden walkway packed with thousands of tiny, colorful scenes from folklore and history. Functional
… read more 👉
  • Longevity Hill & Tower of Buddhist Incense — The hill anchors the whole site; climb winding paths past ornate temples to reach the Tower of Buddhist Incense for sweeping views of the lake and palace roofs. It’s where imperial ritual, clever landscaping and rebuilt Qing-era architecture meet — great for photos and a sense of scale.
  • Kunming Lake (boat ride) — A huge man-made lake that gives the Summer Palace its relaxed vibe. Rent a small rowboat or take a larger tourist boat to float among willow reflections and islands — quiet, scenic, and my personal favorite for watching the palace facades slowly drift by.
  • The Long Corridor (Chang Lang) — Possibly the world’s longest painted corridor: a covered wooden walkway packed with thousands of tiny, colorful scenes from folklore and history. Functional (keeps you out of sun and rain) and unexpectedly charming — every panel is a mini story.
  • Seventeen-Arch Bridge — A stately stone bridge linking the shore to Nanhu Island, famous for its perfect arches and rows of carved lion figures. The symmetry and reflections on a calm day make it one of the most photogenic spots in the park.
  • The Marble Boat (Qingyanfang) — A lakeside pavilion built to look like a boat but made of stone; it’s a deliberate imperial statement — “my rule is stable.” The kitschy-but-elegant structure and inlaid decoration make it a memorable, slightly surreal stop.
  • Imperial Halls and Garden Pavilions (Hall of Benevolence & Longevity, etc.) — These halls show how emperors lived, with carved beams, painted ceilings and carefully composed garden views. The architecture and layout are textbook imperial landscaping: designed for ceremony, comfort and optics.
  • Suzhou Street (Canal Market) — A recreated water-town street along a narrow canal lined with small shops and tea houses, modeled after Jiangnan markets. It’s a fun contrast to the grand palaces — good for cheap snacks, small souvenirs and people-watching in a nostalgic setting.
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Things to do around Summer Palace, Beijing

Beijing :Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour

Beijing :Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour

5.0(85)
✓ Free cancellation
From €167
per personViator
Mutianyu Great Wall And Summer Palace Private Day Tour

Mutianyu Great Wall And Summer Palace Private Day Tour

5.0(67)
✓ Free cancellation
From €85
per personViator
Private Day to T-Square, Forbidden city, Temple of heaven, Summer palace Tour

Private Day to T-Square, Forbidden city, Temple of heaven, Summer palace Tour

5.0(64)
✓ Free cancellation
From €162
per personViator
3-Day Private Tour of Incredible Beijing Highlights

3-Day Private Tour of Incredible Beijing Highlights

5.0(46) 72h
✓ Free cancellation
From €560
per personViator
Top 3 Beijing City Highlights All Inclusive Private Tour

Top 3 Beijing City Highlights All Inclusive Private Tour

5.0(44) 8h
✓ Free cancellation
From €121
per personViator
Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Day Tour

Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Day Tour

5.0(42) 8h 30m
✓ Free cancellation
From €185
per personViator
2-Days Private Beijing Sightseeing Tour Package

2-Days Private Beijing Sightseeing Tour Package

5.0(38) 48h
✓ Free cancellation
From €328
per personViator
Beijing Private Layover Transfer: Great Wall+City Attraction

Beijing Private Layover Transfer: Great Wall+City Attraction

5.0(35)
✓ Free cancellation
From €58
per personViator
Private Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace

Private Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace

5.0(34)
✓ Free cancellation
From €98
per personViator
Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Private Layover Guided Tour

Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Private Layover Guided Tour

5.0(32)
✓ Free cancellation
From €160
per personViator

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🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs


  • Weather: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Summers scorch at 30-35°C (86-95°F), making long walks exhausting, while winters dip below freezing, turning the palace grounds icy and less accessible.

  • Daylight Hours: Peak daylight stretches from 12 to 14 hours in spring and autumn, giving you ample time to explore without rushing. Winter days shrink to about 9 hours, limiting your window for sightseeing.

  • Crowds: Expect heavy crowds during Chinese national holidays and weekends, especially in summer. Early mornings on weekdays in spring or autumn are your best bet to avoid the throngs.

  • Seasonal Activities: Autumn brings vibrant foliage that transforms the gardens into a painter’s palette,
… read more 👉

  • Weather: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Summers scorch at 30-35°C (86-95°F), making long walks exhausting, while winters dip below freezing, turning the palace grounds icy and less accessible.

  • Daylight Hours: Peak daylight stretches from 12 to 14 hours in spring and autumn, giving you ample time to explore without rushing. Winter days shrink to about 9 hours, limiting your window for sightseeing.

  • Crowds: Expect heavy crowds during Chinese national holidays and weekends, especially in summer. Early mornings on weekdays in spring or autumn are your best bet to avoid the throngs.

  • Seasonal Activities: Autumn brings vibrant foliage that transforms the gardens into a painter’s palette, while spring bursts with blooming peonies and willows. Summer’s lotus flowers are a draw but come with the crowd and heat.

  • Price Fluctuations: Entrance fees stay steady year-round, but nearby accommodation and transport costs spike during peak tourist seasons and holidays. Booking ahead in shoulder seasons can save you serious cash.


Pro-tip: Visit just after sunrise in late September—cool air, fewer people, and the golden light on Kunming Lake make it feel like you’ve stepped into a different century.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: below average for travelingFEBFebruary: below average for travelingMARMarch: good for travelingAPRApril: excellent for travelingMAYMay: excellent for travelingJUNJune: good for travelingJULJuly: fair for travelingAUGAugust: fair for travelingSEPSeptember: excellent for travelingOCTOctober: excellent for travelingNOVNovember: good for travelingDECDecember: below average for traveling
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🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in China

Staying near the Summer Palace? You’ve got some solid options that keep you close to the action without breaking the bank.

First up, consider the Haidian District. It’s a bit quieter, but you’ll find a mix of local eateries and parks. Plus, it’s a short bus or bike ride to the Palace. The vibe here is more laid-back, perfect for solo travelers wanting to recharge after a day of exploring.

Then there’s the Wudaokou area, a hotspot for students and backpackers. It’s buzzing with energy, offering plenty of affordable dining and nightlife. You’ll meet fellow travelers and locals alike, making it … read more 👉
Staying near the Summer Palace? You’ve got some solid options that keep you close to the action without breaking the bank.

First up, consider the Haidian District. It’s a bit quieter, but you’ll find a mix of local eateries and parks. Plus, it’s a short bus or bike ride to the Palace. The vibe here is more laid-back, perfect for solo travelers wanting to recharge after a day of exploring.

Then there’s the Wudaokou area, a hotspot for students and backpackers. It’s buzzing with energy, offering plenty of affordable dining and nightlife. You’ll meet fellow travelers and locals alike, making it easy to swap stories and tips.

Finally, don’t overlook the nearby Old Summer Palace area. It’s less touristy, with charming streets and a more authentic feel. You’ll find cozy guesthouses that welcome backpackers and provide a glimpse into local life.
Best hostels in China


Best quality hotels in China

👛 Costs (as of 16 January 2025)Money, prices, and spending tips

Visiting the Summer Palace in Beijing can be a mixed bag of costs, but understanding the breakdown helps you navigate it like a pro.
  • Entrance Fee: Expect to pay around 30-60 CNY (about $4-9 USD) for a standard ticket. If you want access to the museum or special exhibitions, that can bump the price up to 100 CNY (around $15 USD). It’s worth it for the full experience, but check what’s included.
  • Transportation: Getting there can vary. A subway ride costs about 3-5 CNY ($0.50-0.75 USD). If you opt for a taxi, budget around 50-100 CNY ($7-15 USD) from central Beijing. Ride-sharing apps are also popular and can be slightly more expensive but convenient.
  • Food and Drinks: Inside the palace grounds, food options can be pricey. A meal might set you back 50-100 CNY ($7-15 USD). If you venture outside,
… read more 👉
Visiting the Summer Palace in Beijing can be a mixed bag of costs, but understanding the breakdown helps you navigate it like a pro.
  • Entrance Fee: Expect to pay around 30-60 CNY (about $4-9 USD) for a standard ticket. If you want access to the museum or special exhibitions, that can bump the price up to 100 CNY (around $15 USD). It’s worth it for the full experience, but check what’s included.
  • Transportation: Getting there can vary. A subway ride costs about 3-5 CNY ($0.50-0.75 USD). If you opt for a taxi, budget around 50-100 CNY ($7-15 USD) from central Beijing. Ride-sharing apps are also popular and can be slightly more expensive but convenient.
  • Food and Drinks: Inside the palace grounds, food options can be pricey. A meal might set you back 50-100 CNY ($7-15 USD). If you venture outside, local eateries offer meals for as low as 20-40 CNY ($3-6 USD). Bring snacks to save cash and keep your energy up.
  • Souvenirs: If you’re looking to take home a piece of the experience, budget around 50-200 CNY ($7-30 USD) for small trinkets or art. Prices can skyrocket for more elaborate items, so haggle if you can.
  • Guided Tours: If you want a deeper dive into the history, consider a guided tour. These can range from 200-500 CNY ($30-75 USD) depending on the length and inclusions. It’s a splurge, but you’ll walk away with stories and insights that enrich your visit.

The Summer Palace is a beautiful escape, but knowing these costs helps you plan wisely. Enjoy the experience without breaking the bank.


source: en.visitbeijing.com.cn
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

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We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

The Summer Palace is a stunning escape from Beijing’s chaos. Strolling through its vast gardens and along the shimmering Kunming Lake, you’ll feel the weight of history. But brace yourself for the crowds; it can feel like a tourist stampede. Still, if you find a quiet corner, the serenity is worth the hustle. Just go early or late to snag that moment of peace.

✈️ When did I visit China?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited China in August 2015, coming from Mongolia by the TransMongolia Express.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in China, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

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