Wonder at the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China at the Summer Palace. Located approximately 15 kilometers north west of Beijing’s city center, the Summer Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, first built in 1153. The palace garden was the summer retreat for emperors, concubines and, most notably, the Empress Dowager Cixi. After extensive restoration and reconstruction, the garden, palaces, temples, corridors and exquisite exhibits can be seen reflecting their former glory against the backdrop of a remarkable man-made lake. It’s easy to imagine the Empress wandering the beautiful grounds of the palace, or relaxing while floating on the lake. A visit here is perfect to coordinate with exploration at the Forbidden City
Update: June 17, 2021