Jilan Pavilion, nestled in the Summer Palace’s iconic Long Corridor, faces Kunming Lake directly and offers one of the park’s most dramatic vantage points. To reach it, enter the Summer Palace via the Xinjiangong Gate (address: 19 Xinjiangongmen Road, Haidian District). From there, follow the crowds along the winding Long Corridor—you’ll spot Jilan Pavilion as the corridor bends southward, about halfway through its 700-meter stretch.

Natural Scenery: A Canvas of Lakes & Skylines

Perched on the lakeside, Jilan Pavilion frames Kunming Lake like a picture-perfect postcard. The pavilion’s open design lets you soak in panoramic views: shimmering water, distant hills, and palace rooftops. Before reaching the pavilion, the corridor twists through trees and rockeries, creating a sense of anticipation. Then, boom—step into Jilan Pavilion, and the entire lake spreads out before you, backed by a sky so wide it feels like you’re standing in an artist’s watercolor sketch.

Cultural Gems: Stories in Every Stroke

This isn’t just a pretty pavilion—it’s a treasure trove of art. Inside, vivid murals cover the walls, each depicting legends from Chinese history or literature. Think dragons, mythical creatures, and scenes from classical novels. Even if you don’t speak Chinese, the vivid colors and dynamic compositions tell their own story. Fun fact: Jilan Pavilion is the second “viewing pavilion” along the Long Corridor, where the path shifts direction and the scenery transforms from shaded mystery to open grandeur.

Architectural Magic: Design That Wows

What makes Jilan Pavilion special? For starters, it’s the first major turn in the Long Corridor—before this, the path is straight and flat. Here, the corridor gains gentle slopes and curves, adding drama to your stroll. The pavilion itself feels like a cross between a gazebo and an art gallery. Its elevated position and strategic placement (after passing cozy spots like Yangyun Xuan and Wujinyi Xuan) create a “reveal” effect: one moment you’re surrounded by trees, the next, you’re staring at endless sky and lake.

Practical Tips: Rest, Relax, Repeat

Tired of walking? Jilan Pavilion is a hidden oasis for累了的 legs. Plop onto one of the pavilion’s benches (yes, they’re strategically placed for maximum lake-gazing) and let the breeze wash over you. There’s no café here, but nearby kiosks sell ice cream and cold drinks. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. At sunset, the pavilion turns golden—trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you.

Why You’ll Love Jilan Pavilion

Even seasoned travelers admit: Jilan Pavilion is a hidden gem. It’s not as famous as the Tower of Buddhist Incense or the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, but that’s why it’s special. Fewer tourists, zero entrance fees, and a view that’ll make you forget your phone (okay, maybe not your phone—but you’ll want to snap every angle). Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just someone who craves a quiet moment with a stunning backdrop, this spot has your name on it.

P.S. Don’t rush through! Spend at least 20 minutes here. Breathe. Listen to the waves lapping against the shore. And remember: some places are worth pausing for.