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The ruins of the Qing Palace, located in the central southern foothills of Gushan Mountain in Hangzhou, are home to Zhongshan Park. Construction began in the 44th year of the reign of Emperor Kangxi (1644 AD). The palace, home to several Qing Dynasty emperors during their travels to West Lake, was meticulously designed, taking advantage of the mountain's terrain. Its towering pavilions and winding corridors embody the essence of ancient southern Chinese classical gardens.
The courtyard faces south, with the southern portion comprising the building courtyard and the northern portion comprising the rear garden, constructed to capitalize on the terrain of Gushan. This area bears witness to the Qing Dynasty emperors Kangxi and Qianlong's southern tours to Hangzhou in the first half of the 18th century, their imperial approval of the " Ten Scenes of West Lake , " and the significant historical event that culminated in the revival of West Lake's landscape thanks to the imperial esteem.
The remains of the buildings are quite abundant, including the foundations of the courtyard walls, the remains of the Tougong Gate, the Chuihua Gate, the Nanmu Palace, the Jiuxiang Courtyard, and the Yulan Pavilion. The rear garden still contains some of the remains of the " Eight Scenic Spots of the Imperial Palace , " including the Jiuxiang Courtyard, the Yulan Pavilion, the stage, the Chuyue Spring, the Lingyao Pavilion, the Imperial Stele Pavilion, the Green Cloud Path, and the Four-Illuminating Pavilion.
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The Qing Dynasty Palace Ruins are the remains of an ancient palace built during the Qing Dynasty, serving as an important historical site in Zhejiang. These ruins hold immense cultural significance as they represent the architectural styles and imperial power during the Qing era, offering visitors a glimpse into China’s imperial past.
The Qing Dynasty Palace Ruins are located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang. The site can be accessed by taxi, bus, or walking from central Hangzhou. There may be public transportation options nearby, but taxis are the most convenient for direct access.
The ruins are typically open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild. It is recommended to visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds.
The entrance fee is usually around ¥40-70. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the ruins or online through official tourism websites and local ticket platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically necessary, unless visiting during peak seasons or holidays. It is recommended to book a few days in advance if you are planning to join a guided tour or visit during busy times.
A visit to the Qing Dynasty Palace Ruins typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. If you plan to visit the museum or join a guided tour, it may take longer.
Guided tours are available in both Mandarin and English, depending on the availability of guides. Audio guides are also offered in multiple languages, including English, to enhance the visitor experience.
Start by visiting the main palace ruins, then explore the gardens and surrounding areas. If available, visit the onsite museum to learn more about the Qing Dynasty and the history of the palace.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Qing Dynasty Palace Ruins. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the ruins and the landscape.
The ruins are moderately crowded, particularly on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the morning.
The site offers basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and a small gift shop. However, there are no restaurants on-site, so visitors may need to bring their own refreshments or find dining options nearby.
The Qing Dynasty Palace Ruins are accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and easy access to most areas. However, some parts of the ruins may have uneven terrain or steps, so visitors with mobility challenges should check in advance.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted, and credit cards are commonly accepted at the entrance and gift shop. Cash may be needed for small purchases or if mobile payment options are unavailable.
There are no restaurants inside the attraction. However, several local restaurants and cafes can be found in Hangzhou’s city center, just a short distance from the ruins, offering a variety of Chinese and international cuisines.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in many local restaurants around Hangzhou. Halal food may be limited, but there are some Muslim-friendly restaurants nearby.
There are several hotels in the vicinity, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious options. Popular areas for accommodation near the site include West Lake and downtown Hangzhou.
A small gift shop is available on-site, offering souvenirs such as silk products, traditional Chinese handicrafts, and replicas of Qing Dynasty artifacts.
After visiting the Qing Dynasty Palace Ruins, you can take a taxi or public transportation to other nearby attractions like West Lake or Lingyin Temple. The metro and buses are also good options for continuing your exploration of Hangzhou.
