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Tourism GuideA field guide to China

Beijing · Attraction

Kunming Lake

A vast, historic artificial lake forming the centerpiece of the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Kunming Lake
Beijing, ChinaField notes · Attraction
BeijingSummer PalaceUNESCOHistorical

Why go

About Kunming Lake

Kunming Lake is the largest lake within the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) in Beijing. Created primarily through manual labor in the 18th century, it covers approximately three-quarters of the palace grounds. The lake is famed for its serene beauty, traditional Chinese landscaping, and iconic structures like the Marble Boat and the Seventeen-Arch Bridge that adorn its shores.

It was designed to reflect the harmony between human creation and natural beauty, serving as a royal garden and retreat.

Make time for

Practical ideas, not a checklist

  1. 01Take a boat ride on the lake
  2. 02Walk across the Seventeen-Arch Bridge
  3. 03Admire the view from Longevity Hill
  4. 04Photograph the Marble Boat
  5. 05Stroll along the lakeside promenade
  6. 06Enjoy the willow trees and lotus flowers in season

Good to know

Built
circa 1750
Area
2.2 square kilometers
UNESCO Designation
1998
Original Purpose
Imperial Garden
Primary Dynasty
Qing

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