Golden Autumn at the Summer Palace

The Summer Palace in Haidian, Beijing, is a hidden gem in autumn! As one of the Qing Dynasty's "Three Hills and Five Gardens," it embodies Emperor Qianlong's vision of a "miniature Jiangnan." In autumn, the red walls and golden tiles are complemented by the golden ginkgo leaves, crimson maple foliage, and emerald lake waters, with even the breeze carrying a touch of imperial romance. Skip the crowds at Fragrant Hills and come here to enjoy both natural beauty and historical charm. Wearing traditional Hanfu for photos? No filters needed!

🕘 [Opening Hours]:
Main Park: During the peak season in October, the park opens at 6:00 AM and stops entry at 7:00 PM, closing at 8:00 PM. In November, the off-season begins, with opening hours shifting to 6:30 AM and closing at 7:00 PM.

Inner Garden Attractions: Spots like the Tower of Buddhist Incense and Suzhou Street open at 8:00 AM (8:30 AM after November) and close at 6:00 PM (5:00 PM after November). Note: Except for public holidays, these attractions are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly!

Recommended Visit Duration: 4-5 hours. The best times to visit are before 7:00 AM or in the evening, when the light is soft and the crowds are thinner.

💴 [Ticket Prices]:
No recent price changes. Peak season (April-October) tickets are ¥30, while off-season (November-March) tickets are ¥20. Combo tickets are more cost-effective: ¥60 in peak season and ¥50 in off-season, covering all inner garden attractions (individual tickets for the Tower of Buddhist Incense and Suzhou Street are ¥10 each). Seniors over 60 and children under 1.2 meters enter for free, while students can purchase half-price tickets (¥15 for regular tickets, ¥30 for combo tickets).

⛺ [Activities]:
🌟 Must-Do Experiences

1. Admire Autumn Views from Above: The Tower of Buddhist Incense offers the best panoramic views. The Yuanbao maples and smoke trees on Longevity Hill create a gradient of orange to deep red, while Kunming Lake and the Western Hills stretch out like a colorful landscape painting.

2. Stroll the Golden Path: The century-old ginkgo avenue in front of the Hall of Dispelling Clouds is a photographer's dream. Shoot between 9:00-10:00 AM for backlit shots that make the leaves glow like gold foil. When the leaves fall, it feels like stepping into a historical drama set.

3. Boat Ride on the Back Lake: Escape the crowds in the main area by taking a traditional boat along the Back River. The colorful forests reflected in the water and occasional sightings of squirrels create a serene Jiangnan-like atmosphere.

4. Rest in the Inner Gardens: The red walls and autumn leaves of the Garden of Harmonious Interests make for a picturesque setting. The richly colored Chinese elm tree at Han Yuan Hall is perfect for sketching or taking vintage-style photos.

📝 Suggested Off-Peak Itinerary (Tested and Efficient):
Enter through the North Ruyi Gate → Enjoy the colorful forests at the Back Lake → Explore the ancient streets of Suzhou Street → Climb the Tower of Buddhist Incense for a panoramic view → Walk the Long Corridor to admire its autumn-themed paintings (featuring osmanthus and chrysanthemums) → Photograph the ginkgo trees at the Hall of Dispelling Clouds → Take a boat to the Seventeen-Arch Bridge → Exit through the New Palace Gate.

🚌 [Transportation Guide]:
Subway: Take Line 4 to "Beigongmen Station" and exit at Gate A, then walk 10 minutes. Alternatively, exit at "Xiyuan Station" Gate C for direct access to the New Palace Gate (closer to the main attractions, highly recommended!).

Bus: Take routes 303 or 331 to "Summer Palace Beigongmen" stop, or routes 74 or 437 to "Summer Palace New Palace Gate" stop.

Driving Tip: Parking is limited and expensive, so green travel is advised. If driving is necessary, park at the designated lot outside the North Palace Gate.

👉 [Itinerary Suggestions]:
Nearby Attractions

1. One-Day Combo: Spend the morning enjoying autumn at the Summer Palace, then take a 10-minute taxi ride to the Old Summer Palace in the afternoon to experience the poignant beauty of its ruins. Both sites are connected by Line 4.

2. Evening Extension: After exiting through the North Palace Gate, walk to the Xiyuan commercial area for authentic Beijing hot pot. It's both warming and delicious.

🧡 [Preparation Tips]:
Luxury Option: Stay at Aman Summer Palace, within walking distance of the park. Its traditional Chinese courtyard design complements the imperial garden aesthetic.

Budget Option: Choose a chain hotel near Xiyuan Subway Station (e.g., Home Inn, 7 Days Inn). The subway provides direct access to the park, and the area offers convenient dining options.