The Old Summer Palace (Chinese: Yuanming Yuan) is a complex of palaces and gardens of the Qing Dynasty. This palace gathers the essence of Chinese garden art and integrates both western and eastern architecture styles. Many landscape architects regard it as the peak work in the history of Chinese golden art. In its peak beauty times, it was referred to as the "Garden of gardens." The famous French author Victor Hugo even praised it as one of the wonders of the world."
In the 19th century, this glorious imperial garden featured some 1,000 palaces, about 100 viewing points, and numerous treasures, all taking over an area of 350 hectares (865 acres). However, what you can see now is only ruins fo the palace. In 1860, the French and British troops occupied Beijing and reached the Old Summer Palace. They looted, burnt and destroyed the imperial premises. The palace was so large that it even took 4,000 men and three days to burn it to the ground.
In spring, usually around April–May, Beijing holds the annual Spring Excursion Festival of Yuanming Yuan Ruins Park. This festival brings back the culture and history of the Qing Dynasty via various exhibitions. You can also enjoy spring blossoms of peach, begonias, and peonies at the time.
Lotus are in their blossoming from roughly from mid-June to mid-August. There are more than 300 different kinds of lotus in the Old Summer Palace, and the planting area of the lotus is more 65 hectares (160 acres). You may even see lotus blossoms from century-old seed that was discovered during archaeological works in 2017. The seeds that had been dormant for more than a hundred years blossomed in the summer of 2019.
In October and early November, leaves of ginkgo trees along the Yuanmingyuan Ginkgo Avenue turn yellow. This is the best time to enjoy the "yellow ocean" with the warm sunshine in the Old Summer Palace.
Considering all the seasonal perks of the Yuanming Yuan, the best time to visit would be from April to early November. A visit to the Old Summer Palace usually lasts two-three hours.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit the Old Summer Palace (Yuanming Yuan)?
To see the palace in its best form, one should plan a visit from April to early November. In April and May, visitors can participate in the Spring Excursion Festival of Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park, while June to August offers the chance to witness the 300 lotus flower species spread on its 65-hectare plot. If one visits in October or early November, they can see the palace's enchanting yellow Gingko trees. Show more
Where is the Old Summer Palace located?
In the northwest outskirts of Beijing lies the Old Summer Palace or Yuanming Yuan, spanning over 350 hectares. While initially placed at Beijing's northwest and connected to the Forbidden city by a 728 meters long corridor, the Qing emperors later created the Summer Palace south of the Old Summer Palace, which is comparatively smaller. Show more
Can we enter any of the remains of the palace?
Yes, though many original buildings from the palace are no longer standing, the ruins of the site are free for visitors to explore. While exploring the Three Island area covering three acres, tourists can observe ruined water sculptures and pieces of walls and stone-carved sculptures, along with numerous fragments of buildings and palaces. Show more
What is unique about the Spring Excursion Festival of Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park?
The Spring Excursion Festival is held every year from April to May to showcase the Qing Dynasty culture and history. Tourists can indulge in exhibitions, sip tea using traditional methods, and marvel at magnificent cultural and music performances while snacking on goodies. Additionally, they have an opportunity to traverse through the ruins, which is frequented by photography enthusiasts who aim to capture nature in its full glory. Show more
How many types of lotus flowers does this palace have?
Over 300 species of lotus flowers bloom across the Palace's 65-hectare area. During archaeological research in 2017, century-old seeds bloomed into lotuses, becoming a delightful sight to behold. The lotus varieties signify good luck and resilience, and their names are based on their aroma, appearance, and size, maximizing their charm and elegance. Show more
