Travel Guide to the Ruins of the Old Summer Palace in Beijing

The Ruins of the Old Summer Palace are a testament to modern Chinese history. Once the pinnacle of Qing Dynasty imperial gardens, it was known as the 'Garden of Gardens.' Today, the park blends the solemnity of its ruins with the beauty of natural landscapes, making it a must-visit historical and cultural landmark in Beijing. Tickets and Opening Hours Tickets: General admission is 10 RMB (includes Changchun Garden and Qichun Garden). An additional 15 RMB is required for the Western Mansions Ruins, or you can purchase a combined ticket for 25 RMB (includes the panoramic model exhibition). Students, seniors, and others may enjoy half-price or free admission. On specific commemorative days, such as Cultural Heritage Day (the second Saturday in June), admission is free. Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM (closes earlier in winter, extended to 9:00 PM in summer). Transportation Guide Subway: Take Line 4 to Yuanmingyuan Station, Exit B, and walk 5 minutes to the South Gate. Bus: Multiple routes, including 331, 424, and 664, can reach the East Gate or South Gate. Recommended Routes and Must-See Attractions Classic Route: South Gate → Jianbi Pavilion → Hanqiu Pavilion → Intersection of the Three Gardens → Western Mansions Ruins (Dashuifa, Huanghuazhen Maze) → Ginkgo Avenue → Panoramic Sand Table → Exit at East Gate (approximately 3 hours). Must-See Spots: Western Mansions Ruins: The remaining European-style buildings, including the Dashuifa and Haiyantang, are awe-inspiring. Ginkgo Avenue: A 'golden corridor' of fallen leaves in autumn, perfect for photography. Fuhai: Boating on the lake, with a distant view of Pengdao Yaotai, evokes the grandeur of the former imperial garden. Seasonal Highlights Summer: Lotus Festival (June-August), with boat rides from the Tianxin Wharf to enjoy the lotus flowers. Autumn: Chrysanthemum viewing at Hanqiu Pavilion and strolling along Ginkgo Avenue. Practical Tips The park is large, so wear comfortable shoes. Electric carts (about 15-25 RMB) or boats (self-driving boats on Fuhai) are available for rent. Food options within the park are limited, so bring snacks. Try the creative ice cream (such as lotus-shaped). Protect the ruins by not climbing on them. At Zhengjue Temple, you can see the returned 'Horse Head Bronze Statue' exhibition. The Old Summer Palace is not just a garden ruin but a vivid history book. Walking through it, you can appreciate the beauty of nature and remember the nation's past.