Bucket list experience:
Beijing, China
The former retreat of China’s imperial rulers, the Summer Palace is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design on a truly awesome scale. Artificial hills, lakes, opulent buildings and graceful arched bridges convene in carefully orchestrated harmony.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the gardens, 12km northwest of the Forbidden City, were first built in the 12th century but were developed to their artistic height during the Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1912).
Most famously, the Summer Palace became the royal retirement home of Cixi, the Empress Dowager, a formidable character who ruled China from behind the curtain for almost five decades. The palace and its gardens were remodelled to serve as her private retirement complex.
There’s plenty to see and do, from strolling the famous ‘Long Corridor’ to pleasure boating on Kunming Lake. Several of the palace buildings hold historical artefacts and exhibits, including possessions belonging to the Empress Dowager.
The nearest subway station is Beigongmen (Line 4), right outside the north gate, or Xiyuan (Line 4), close to the east (main) gate. The Xijiao light-rail line, connected to the Beijing subway, stops outside the west gate. When leaving, taxis congregate outside the exits, though barter hard, as they often demand an inflated fee.
Once inside, take your pick – stroll around the gardens and parks, take a boat ride on the lake, enjoy a picnic under a willow tree and/or visit the temple complex. Maps are available (for a small price) at the entrance. The palace complex is landscaped across a large area, so plenty of walking is required.
Eating and drinking options in and around the park are limited, but you can treat yourself to afternoon tea at the Aman, a swanky resort hotel next to the Summer Palace’s east gate.
It’s open all year round, seven days a week.
The best time to arrive is in the morning, as the crowds descend in the afternoon, especially on weekends and public holidays. The grounds are at their prettiest in spring.
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