Location & How to Get There

The East Palace Gate sits on the eastern side of the Summer Palace in Beijing’s Haidian District. It’s tucked near Xinjian Gongmen Road, No. 19, making it a less-crowded alternative to the main entrance. To reach it, take Beijing’s subway Line 4 to Beijing Zoo Station, then transfer to Bus 346 or walk for about 20 minutes. If you’re coming from downtown, taxis or ride-sharing apps like Didi are convenient—just ask the driver to drop you at the “Summer Palace East Gate.”

Architectural Beauty: A Royal Welcome

The East Palace Gate isn’t just an entrance—it’s a masterpiece of Qing Dynasty design. Facing east, this grand gate served as the royal family’s primary entry to the Summer Palace. Six vibrant red doors, each adorned with rows of golden studs, catch the eye first. Above them, a massive plaque carved with “Yiheyuan” (Summer Palace) in gold leaf hangs proudly. This inscription? A rare surviving example of Emperor Guangxu’s calligraphy!

Look closer, and you’ll notice every inch of the gate’s roof is painted with colorful oil-based patterns—dragons, flowers, and auspicious symbols. It’s like a giant, intricate mural celebrating imperial power.

The Cloud Dragon Stone: A Symbol of Power

Right in front of the East Palace Gate lies a colossal stone slab called the Cloud Dragon Stone. Carved with two twisting dragons chasing a pearl, it’s easy to miss the history here: this relic originally decorated the Old Summer Palace (destroyed in wars) and was moved here during Qianlong’s reign. For ancient Chinese emperors, stepping on this stone meant asserting their divine right to rule—talk about making an entrance!

Surroundings: From Gate to Garden

Pass through the East Palace Gate, and you’ll step into the Summer Palace’s tranquil eastern zone. Unlike the busier front areas, this side feels quieter, with winding paths leading to Kunming Lake and halls like Jade Ribbon Bridge. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the gate, while autumn paints the nearby pavilions in fiery hues. Even without entering the palace, the gate’s surroundings offer plenty of photo-worthy spots—think traditional red walls contrasting with blue skies.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Opening hours: The East Palace Gate opens at 6:30 AM and closes around 8-9 PM depending on the season. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
  • Tickets: Buy your Summer Palace ticket online (saves time!) or at the booth near the gate.
  • Facilities: Clean restrooms and a small café stand nearby. There’s also bike rental if you prefer pedaling around the vast grounds.
  • Accessibility: The area is flat, but the stone steps at the gate might challenge wheelchairs—best to check ahead.

Why Visit the East Palace Gate?

While most tourists flock to the main entrance, the East Palace Gate offers a deeper dive into imperial history. It’s perfect for photography buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone wanting to escape the hustle. Plus, since it’s less busy, you can soak in the details—like the dragon motifs or the weathered stone carvings—without jostling crowds.

Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning. The soft morning light highlights the gate’s colors, and you might even spot locals practicing tai chi nearby. Whether you’re a history nerd or just looking for a serene Beijing moment, the East Palace Gate won’t disappoint!