Tourism GuideKunming Lake
A vast, historic artificial lake forming the centerpiece of the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Key Information
Built
circa 1750
Area
2.2 square kilometers
UNESCO Designation
1998
Original Purpose
Imperial Garden
Primary Dynasty
Qing
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.
Things to Do
- Take a boat ride on the lake
- Walk across the Seventeen-Arch Bridge
- Admire the view from Longevity Hill
- Photograph the Marble Boat
- Stroll along the lakeside promenade
- Enjoy the willow trees and lotus flowers in season
