Summer Palace - Stroll In The Painting sits in the northwestern corner of Beijing, nestled near the West Hills and just a short ride from the city’s bustling center. The address is straightforward: 19 Xinjiangongmen Road, Haidian District. It’s easy to reach by subway Line 4 (exit at Beijing Zoo Station and walk 15 minutes) or buses 331, 346, or 718. If you’d rather cycle, there are rental stations nearby, and the park even has bike-friendly paths for a leisurely ride.

Natural Scenery: A Living Poster

The crown jewel? Kunming Lake, a vast, mirror-like water body that reflects the changing seasons like a giant painting. In spring, lotus flowers bloom like green-and-pink confetti, while autumn turns the lakeshore into a golden tunnel of ginkgo trees. The Longevity Hill (Wanshou Mountain) behind the lake offers panoramic views—climb halfway for a “postcard moment” without the crowds.

Fun fact: At dawn, the lake often looks like it’s covered in silver foil due to the mist. For a quieter escape, head to the southeastern corner near Suzhou Street, where willows droop over the water like nature’s curtains.

Cultural Highlights: Stories in Stone

This place isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with history. The Pagoda of Buddhist Incense (Foxiang Pavilion) on Longevity Hill is a Qing Dynasty icon, once used by emperors to pray for good harvests. The Long Corridor (728 meters!), painted with 14,000 traditional scenes, feels like walking through a storybook.

Don’t miss the Marble Boat (Qingqiu Yilang) by the lake—a royal boat carved from white stone, symbolizing “safe voyages” for the emperor. For a quirky touch, visit the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, which looks like a dragon’s back when seen from above.

Practical Tips: Eat, Rest, Repeat

The park has multiple visitor centers (look for signs in English) and clean restrooms. For snacks, try “imperial ice cream” (fluffy mung bean shaved ice near the lake) or pick up peking duck wraps at food stalls. There’s even a kid-friendly playground near the northeast gate if you’re traveling with children.

Pro tip: Rent a electric scooter near the main entrance for tired legs—it’s cheaper than taxis back to the city. And yes, there’s free Wi-Fi in most open areas!

The Full Experience: How to Enjoy It

Start early! Arrive before 8 AM to beat tour groups. Begin at the New Palace Gate (Xinjiangongmen) and follow the lake eastward. Take a paddle-boat ride (rentals available) to appreciate the scale of the lake. For a cultural deep dive, join a 1-hour guided tour (check the English schedule at the main hall).

At sunset, grab a spot near the Bronze Ox statue. The lit-up pavilions reflecting on the water create a “fireworks without explosions” effect. End your day with night shots of the East Palace Gate—trust us, it’s Instagram gold.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just want a peaceful day out, Summer Palace - Stroll In The Painting blends grandeur with calm. Bring comfy shoes, charge your camera, and get ready to feel like you’ve stepped into a Qing Dynasty watercolor—but with selfie spots.