Tourism GuideYuanmingyuan Park
The Old Summer Palace known as Yuanmingyuan is a UNESCO World Heritage site that represents both imperial grandeur and historical tragedy
Key Information
UNESCO Status
World Heritage Site
Original Construction
1707-1809
Destruction Date
October 1860
Total Area
350 hectares
Best Time to Visit
April to October
Architectural Styles
Chinese European Baroque
Main Sections
Yuanming Garden Changchun Garden Qichun Garden
Yuanmingyuan also known as the Old Summer Palace was once the most magnificent imperial garden complex in China Built during the Qing Dynasty it covered over 350 hectares and featured a stunning collection of Europeanstyle palaces Chinese pavilions artificial lakes and elaborate gardens The complex was looted and destroyed by British and French forces in 1860 during the Second Opium War Today the ruins stand as a poignant reminder of Chinas imperial past and the painful history of foreign aggression The park combines beautiful natural scenery with historical ruins creating a unique atmosphere of both beauty and melancholy Visitors can explore the remains of Europeanstyle palaces designed by Jesuit missionaries admire the intricate stone carvings and wander through the picturesque gardens that have been partially restored
Things to Do
- Explore the European Palaces Ruins including the famous Dashuifa Grand Waterworks
- Visit the Changchun Garden and Qichun Garden sections with their traditional Chinese architecture
- Take a boat ride on Fuhai Lake to appreciate the parks water features
- Walk through the Maze Garden a traditional Chinese labyrinth
- See the bronze animal heads exhibition at the Yuanmingyuan Museum
- Enjoy the lotus flowers in summer and autumn foliage in fall
- Attend cultural events and exhibitions about Qing Dynasty history