№.84 Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Peking 北京皇家花園

The Summer Palace, located in the northwest of Beijing, is a royal garden built during the Qing Dynasty, commissioned by Emperor Qianlong. Covering an area of about 290 hectares, it includes beautiful lakes, grand palaces, exquisite temples, and various gardens. This garden is an outstanding representation of classical Chinese gardening and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The architecture and landscapes of the Summer Palace cleverly combine elements of landscape painting, architectural art, and garden design, providing the royal family with an ideal place to escape the summer heat. Prominent features include Kunming Lake, the Grand Canal, the Long Corridor, the Tower of Buddhist Incense, the Hall of Happiness and Longevity, the Marble Boat, and many other famous attractions.

The Summer Palace has also witnessed the historical changes in China and has suffered damage from invasions and wars. However, its cultural and historical value has led to its restoration and preservation, making it one of China’s significant tourist destinations.