When you think of Beijing, the capital of China, images of the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, or even the bustling Beijing China Airport might come to mind. But tucked away in the northwest corner of the city is one of the most peaceful and majestic Beijing China tourist attractions—the Summer Palace (颐和园 Yíhéyuán), a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. During our recent trip to Beijing, China, Elaine and I discovered that this imperial garden is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a living museum that brings history and poetry to life. Whether you’re planning a China vacation, a quick Beijing tour, or considering the classic Beijing or Shanghai debate for your next holiday in China, this is one stop you don’t want to miss.
First Stop: Stone Marker of “颐和园” and A Warm Welcome
We began our China Beijing tour at the main entrance, where the stone plaque proudly reads: “颐和园”—the Summer Palace. Elaine insisted on a selfie right there. A nice gentleman nearby chuckled and said, “First-timers?” I smiled. “Not quite,” I replied, “but this time we brought her panda and penguin friends along for the ride.”
Elaine, dressed in her signature red cap, was especially excited. She had read about Empress Dowager Cixi (慈禧太后 Cíxǐ Tàihòu) and how she turned this vast imperial garden into her personal retreat during the late Qing dynasty. “She even used the navy funds to rebuild it,” Elaine reminded me with a smirk. Yep, our little historian was ready for more than just a China vacation photo-op.
Kunming Lake: Where Willows Kiss the Water
We headed toward Kunming Lake (昆明湖 Kūnmíng Hú), the sparkling centerpiece of the palace. The soft morning sun lit up the water, casting a dreamy haze over the Seventeen-Arch Bridge in the distance. Willow branches danced above us as paddle boats floated past like ancient paintings come to life—definitely one of the most memorable Beijing things to do if you want to slow down and feel the past.
Elaine paused for a moment and said, “It feels like we’re in an old poem, Papa.” And she was right—there was poetry everywhere. From the reflections in the water to the leisurely rhythm of boats gliding across this iconic China visit place.
A View Fit for an Empress: Longevity Hill
One of the best parts of this Beijing China tour was watching Elaine spot the Tower of Buddhist Incense (佛香阁 Fóxiāng Gé), perched atop Longevity Hill. She pointed at it and asked, “Can we go up there?” Of course, we could! But not before snapping a quick family selfie with our panda and penguin plushies standing guard—something every family visiting on a China vacation should try.
The Tower of Buddhist Incense is the crown jewel of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a true highlight on any Beijing tour. From the top, you can get a panoramic view of Kunming Lake, and on a clear day, even dream of seeing the Great Wall of China from Beijing.
Elaine, being more of a water girl than a climber, was much more excited about boating. “Let’s try the dragon boat next!”
Dragon Boats, Laughs, and Local Vibes
We joined the line for the elaborately painted dragon boats that shuttle visitors across the lake—easily one of the most photogenic and enjoyable Beijing things to do for all ages. Locals chatted animatedly while a tour guide told a group that the Summer Palace has over 3,000 ancient structures—pavilions, temples, corridors, and bridges.
Elaine whispered, “Imagine if this were our backyard.” We both laughed. “We’d need a lot of help with gardening,” I replied.
The boat glided past the famous Marble Boat (石舫 Shífǎng), a quirky blend of Chinese tradition and Western flair. Elaine looked at it thoughtfully and said, “Too bad that didn’t work out so well for the Qing dynasty.” Another mic drop from my homeschooled daughter, who’s learning Chinese history through every travel to Beijing, China trip we make.
Our Educational Travel Ritual
Like all our adventures, this one wasn’t just about sightseeing. It’s part of Elaine’s lifelong self-learning journey. No textbooks—just first-hand experience. This is how we roll, especially during every holiday in China we take as a family.
She snapped dozens of photos for her timeline project on Chinese dynasties. “This part’s going into the ‘Late Qing’ folder,” she said. I can’t help but think that for many families considering a Beijing China travel experience, this kind of cultural immersion beats a regular classroom lesson any day.
Travel Tips for Fellow Explorers
If you’re planning your own trip to Beijing, China, here are some things we’ve learned that might help:
- Arrive early: The morning light is magical, and it’s less crowded—perfect for soaking in this China wonder.
- Boat ride is a must: It offers a peaceful perspective and is perfect for family photos.
- Dress comfortably: The grounds are vast and you’ll be walking a lot.
- Bring water and snacks: There are vendors, but they can get pricey or crowded.
- Plan your visa early: For most, a China travel visa is required, so plan ahead.
Final Reflections
As we stood by the lake for one last look, Elaine leaned in and asked, “Papa, do you think the Empress ever imagined people like us—ordinary travelers—would one day be enjoying her garden?”
“Maybe not,” I said. “But I think she’d be happy to know that this place is still loved.”
Whether you’re flying in through Beijing China Airport, considering a stopover during your China vacation, or simply debating Beijing or Shanghai for your next cultural escape, I wholeheartedly recommend putting the Summer Palace on your list. From ancient pavilions to scenic boat rides, this is one of those rare places where history feels alive—and where a father and daughter can bond over poetry, architecture, and the occasional China fireworks display reflected in still water.
Until next time, from the quiet edges of Kunming Lake, 再见 (zàijiàn)!
