Old Summer Palace
Park · Beijing

Old Summer Palace

Photo: Windmemories · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

The Old Summer Palace was built as a residence and garden for Qing emperors. Anglo-French forces destroyed it in 1860. Stone ruins, lakes and pathways now form the park grounds.

On day 4 of Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai in 14 Days

Good to know

Tickets
Admission fee required; check current rates on site
Time needed
Two to four hours
Best time
Spring or autumn
Getting there
Subway line 4 to Yuanmingyuan station

Itineraries with Old Summer Palace

Day 4 of Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai in 14 Days

The Summer Palace and 798

How Old Summer Palace fits into a day.
  1. 8:30Summer PalaceBeijing
  2. 13:30Old Summer PalaceBeijing
  3. 16:30798 Art DistrictBeijing
See all 14 days
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Old Summer Palace questions

What is the Old Summer Palace?

It was a large imperial garden built in the 18th century. Only ruins remain after its destruction in 1860.

Is it the same as the Summer Palace?

No. The Old Summer Palace lies east of the Summer Palace and consists mainly of ruins.

How long does a visit take?

Most visitors spend two to four hours walking the grounds. Allow extra time for the European-style palace ruins in the northeast.

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