Beijing Summer Palace Tour with Royal Canal Boat Cruise

Tour Itinerary

Kick off your exploration of Beijing with a smooth and hassle-free start to your journey. Our efficient and convenient pick-up service ensures that you’ll be collected from your downtown hotel or the Beijing train station with ease. Upon arrival, our friendly and professional guide, holding a prominent "Your Way Holiday" sign, will warmly greet you, making your transition seamless and welcoming. As you settle comfortably into your transport, you’ll be taken to the magnificent Summer Palace, where a captivating tour awaits. Our expert guide will lead you through this iconic site, offering insightful commentary on its breathtaking gardens, grand pavilions, and serene lake views. With detailed explanations and fascinating historical context, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the palace's cultural and architectural significance, making your visit both informative and memorable.

Set sail on a charming cruise along the historic imperial canal in a traditional motorized canopy boat, where you'll glide past notable landmarks such as Beijing Zoo, the Beijing Aquarium, and the lush Purple Bamboo Garden. This serene journey offers a unique perspective on Beijing’s natural and architectural beauty, with scenic views that unfold along the waterway. At the Purple Bamboo Garden, a tranquil oasis renowned for its rich bamboo groves and serene landscapes, we'll pause for a leisurely stroll. Here, you’ll encounter a delightful local sing-along group nestled within the bamboo forest. Immerse yourself in the lively and heartfelt performances of community singers, whose passionate renditions bring a touch of local culture and joy to this picturesque setting.

We’ll continue our scenic journey by boat, seamlessly navigating from the imperial canal directly into the Summer Palace. Once there, we’ll switch to a different boat for a leisurely cruise on the expansive Kunming Lake, taking in the stunning views of this historic waterway. Following the boat ride, our knowledgeable guide will lead you on a guided walk through the Summer Palace grounds. You have the option to either ascend the hill for panoramic vistas or take a serene stroll around its base, depending on your preference. Throughout the tour, our guide will provide insightful commentary on the palace’s rich history, architectural marvels, and the significance of its serene landscapes. The walk will culminate at the North Gate, where you'll have a chance to reflect on the day's experiences and capture the beauty of one of Beijing’s most treasured landmarks.

The Summer Palace in Beijing is a masterful embodiment of traditional Chinese garden design, blending numerous halls, pavilions, and scenic features into a grand imperial garden conceived by Qing emperor Qianlong between 1750 and 1764. Originally named the Garden of Clear Ripples, this vast estate incorporates Kunming Lake, which was once a reservoir for the Yuan dynasty’s capital, and Longevity Hill, serving as the foundational framework for its layout. The Summer Palace harmoniously integrates various functions—political, administrative, residential, spiritual, and recreational—within its expansive landscape of lakes and mountains. This meticulous design follows the Chinese philosophical principle of achieving balance between human creations and the natural environment. The palace’s expansive grounds are dotted with elaborate structures such as the Marble Boat, the Long Corridor, and the Tower of Buddhist Incense, each contributing to a breathtaking panorama that reflects both the grandeur of imperial China and the tranquil beauty of its natural surroundings.

Then, we continue our journey by boat, heading directly into the Summer Palace. Once there, we change boats to cruise on Kunming Lake, offering a serene perspective of this historic site. After the boat ride, we embark on a guided walk, either mounting the hill or taking a scenic side walk around it. The tour concludes at the North Gate of the Summer Palace, where you can admire the beautiful landscapes and architectural marvels of this imperial garden.

Price Per Person in US Dollars