Dehe Garden

Introducing Dehe Garden

The Garden of Virtue and Harmony is located within the Summer Palace at No. 19 Xinjian Gongmen Road, Haidian District, Beijing. Just north of the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity lies the Garden of Virtue and Harmony. Originally the site of the Yichun Hall during the Qianlong Emperor's reign, it was renovated during the Guangxu Emperor's reign as a venue for Empress Dowager Cixi to watch operas. It comprises a Grand Theater, an adjacent two-story Dressing Hall, the Yile Hall, and a viewing gallery. Along with the Changyin Pavilion in the Forbidden City and the Qingyin Pavilion in the Chengde Mountain Resort in Hebei Province, it is considered one of the three major theaters of the Qing Dynasty, though this one is the largest, boasting exquisite architecture and magnificent grandeur.

The garden's three-story theater, known as the Fu Lu Shou Theater, stands 21 meters tall. A small stage on the first floor served as an orchestra pit, while the other two stages were used for performances. The performing hall, located behind the theater, now displays period costumes and props, a cloisonné Magu herbalist figure, Cixi's sedan chair and car, and an oil painting of her by a Dutch-American artist.

Climate and best time to travel

North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the Summer Palace scenic area ticket

Attraction opening hours

Peak season (April 1st - October 31st) 6:30-20:00

Off-season (November 1st - March 31st of the following year) 7:00-19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Dehe Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dehe Garden is a classic example of traditional Chinese garden design, renowned for its historical architecture and beautiful landscaping. The garden has long been a favorite retreat for scholars and those seeking tranquility in Beijing's busy urban environment.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dehe Garden is located in the Haidian District of Beijing. It is accessible by taxi, and the nearest metro station is a short walk away. You can also take a bus to the nearby stop and walk to the garden.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Dehe Garden is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the garden is at its most vibrant. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately ¥40 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance online through the official website.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not usually necessary to book tickets in advance, except during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient for a smooth visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need approximately 1-2 hours to fully explore Dehe Garden, including walking through the pathways, visiting the ponds, and taking photographs.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The koi ponds, where visitors can feed the fish and relax by the water.
• The central pavilion with traditional Chinese architecture, offering a great spot for photos.
• The quiet garden paths surrounded by lush greenery and cultural sculptures.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, but audio guides in English may also be offered during busy seasons. It's recommended to check for availability upon arrival.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The central pavilion offers a stunning view of the entire garden. The koi ponds also provide great opportunities for capturing reflections and tranquil water scenes. The garden's pathways surrounded by trees and flowers are also ideal for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering through the main gate and walk along the central path towards the koi ponds. Then, explore the various garden sections, stopping at the pavilion for photographs and relaxation. End your visit with a stroll through the serene, less crowded areas near the back of the garden.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Dehe Garden. Special tours can be arranged, but they are generally limited to daytime hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Dehe Garden is relatively peaceful, with fewer crowds during weekdays, especially in the morning. It tends to get busier on weekends and during national holidays, so visiting early in the day on weekdays is ideal for a quiet experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic amenities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no large shops or food stalls inside the garden, so it's recommended to bring water and snacks with you, or visit a nearby café or restaurant before or after your visit.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The garden is mostly accessible, with paved paths suitable for elderly visitors and those with limited mobility. However, some parts of the garden may have uneven terrain, which might be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted, as well as credit cards at some ticket counters. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside the garden, but nearby you can find several cafés and restaurants offering traditional Chinese meals and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Nearby restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. However, halal food may be limited in the area, so it's advisable to check restaurant menus in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Beijing Xihua Hotel is a nearby accommodation offering comfortable lodging options.
• There are also several budget hotels in the Haidian District, a short drive from the garden.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located nearby and can be easily combined with a visit to Dehe Garden.
• Beihai Park and the Old Summer Palace are also close and can be included in a day's itinerary.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the garden. However, you can find local souvenirs such as traditional Chinese crafts and tea sets at nearby markets or shopping areas.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Dehe Garden, taxis or public buses are the most convenient options for continuing your journey. The nearby metro stations also provide easy access to other parts of the city.